Bust out the booze friends! I’ve got a weekend project for you!
We’re making our very own vanilla extract! Why? Why make your own vanilla extract when you can just buy the stuff in a teeeeeeny tiny bottle at the grocery store for close to ten whopping dollars? Hm… see what I did there? I seem to have answered my own question.
Homemade vanilla extract only requires a handful of things. Come on… we can totally rock this.
First let’s talk vanilla beans. Yea… they’re a tad bit expensive, but totally worth their weight in… vanilla.
There are a lots different varieties of vanilla beans. So many varieties all with their own subtle nuances… it can be a bit overwhelming. There are beans from Madagascar, Mexico, Tahiti, Tonga… just throw a dart at the map and they just might produce vanilla beans there. Ok. I’m exaggerating. Different beans from all over the globe have different characteristics. We could talk about this for days… seriously. Here’s a brief brief brief run down of my favorites.
Madagascar beans are powerful, dark, full vanilla flavor beans. Tahitian beans remind me of vanilla figs- fruity and floral. The Mexican variety has just a hint of sweet creaminess. How’s that for brief?
What beans are you going to choose for your vanilla extract? Where are you going to get them? Use exactly any bean you want! Maybe you’ll buy them online here. Use exactly whatever you can get your hands on. Mix and match! It’s your world. It’s your extract.
This is going to be so easy! Let’s get started!
I started two types of vanilla extract. One jar is filled with vodka and Mexican vanilla beans (on the left above) while the other jar has bourbon and Tahitian vanilla beans (on the right, silly). I’m beyond excited! I’m ready to bathe in this stuff.
Here’s what you’ll need to make your own vanilla extract:
– A mason jar, or some other clean, super sealing container.
– A high-proof alcohol like vodka, bourbon or rum. We’re talking 80 proof.
– Three vanilla beans per cup of alcohol
– A dark spot to store the jars.
– Two months. That’s how long it takes to create vanilla extract!
Here’s how:
Use a sharp paring knife to cut lengthwise down the center of the vanilla beans, leaving about an inch at the top of the vanilla bean uncut.
Put the vanilla beans in a glass jar with a tight fitting lid. I used mason jars.
Cover the beans completely with alcohol. It’s three vanilla beans per cup of alcohol, so if you use 2 cups of vodka split open six vanilla beans and throw them in the jar.
Tightly cover the jar and give it a good shake. Store in a cool dry place for two months. Give the bottle a good shake every week or so, just so you don’t forget all about it.
After two months have passed, your vanilla extract should be ready for your favorite chocolate chip cookie or pound cake recipe. You might also want to put the extract in cute, tiny bottles and give them to your favorite baker friends.
mh
Hello. I have made a few jars of vanilla. I opened one after 6 months. I used vodka, is it still supposed to smell like vodka?
joythebaker
it should smell like vanilla vodka. the smell of alcohol will not disappear.
Matyldakr
Hi, I was wondering if I could re-use the beans for another bottle of vanilla extract?
joythebaker
you could! i would just add a few fresh beans as well!
Sister Janet Strong er. dio
I am interested in making homemade Mexican Vanilla. It has such a wonderful and different smell and taste than the Vanilla that we have in North America and Europe. Do you have any idea how to make it?
Paola Parsons
Not exactly but I’m sure a quick Google search will give you all of the answers :)
Shandee
The type of vanilla you end up with depends on three things:
1. Type of alcohol used
2. Type of vanilla bean used
3. Time.
To get Mexican vanilla, all you need are Mexican Vanilla beans! They are one of the more expensive readily available beans out there, so plan accordingly. (my last batch, I paid about $1.25 per bean, compared to the $0.70 per Bourbon-Madagascar bean)
My first attempt I went with the typical Bourbon-Madagascar beans in two batches – one batch in vodka, one in rum. And both were amazing!
Now that I have experience with the process, I have begun to custom mix and blend to get just the flavor I like.
This year, I made 6 batches, 3 rum and 3 vodka, and then each had either Bourbon-Madagascar (B-M), Mexican, or Tahitian vanilla beans.
I have found that my ideal is a blend of B-M & Mexican beans. I like the boldness and strength of flavor from the B-M beans, and the smoky earthiness from the Mexican beans (approx 2 parts B-M to 1 part Mex). I also prefer mine in Rum, as it gives it that little extra bit of caramelly sultry smoothness. In vodka, I make a B-M & Tahitian blend. Vodka based vanilla’s tend to be a bit lighter in flavor, and that is a better compliment to the Tahitian flavor.
It all comes down to what tickles your pallet :)
Have fun experimenting!
Sister Janet Strong er. dio
I am interested in making homemade Mexican Vanilla. One can find it in Mexican markets and it has a very different and wonderful flavor and smell than the smell we get in North America, and Europe. Any ideas?
Lawrence
I tried making this, but kept running out of bourbon… ;-)
Seriously great tip. It is amazing how simple things are to make on your own and healthier. I have gotten on this “roll your own” kick lately. I make my own Butter, Mayo, Ketchup, Mustard, Cheeses, Sour Cream etc… My kids think I am crazy, yet they find things to put my homemade condiments on because they taste so much better… Now I have Vanilla to add to the mix. Thank You!
aisblogs.azurewebsites.net
Aw, this was a very good post. Spending some time and actual effort to make
a top notch article… but what can I say… I put things off
a lot and don’t seem to get anything done.
Delia
Hmm is anyone else experiencing problems with the images on this blog loading?
I’m trying to find out if its a problem on my end or if it’s the blog.
Any feed-back would be greatly appreciated.
joythebaker
all of the images seem to be loading fine on this post. perhaps try a different browser.
Sarah E
Thank you so much for this little tutorial! I made my own with vodka and I’m hoping to try it with rum next. I want to taste test and see how different each alcohol makes the vanilla taste. Guess I’m going to be eating lots of cookies – for shame! :)
tryanne
thanks :D i managed to exchange for a higher alcohol content[just to be on the safer side ><]. may i know if it's normal to have some lil particles floating in the vodka after putting in the pods?
tryanne
hey, ithis is my first time making my own vanilla extract. i was wondering if i could use 32.5% [65 proof] vodka i recently purchased? i’ve made a mistake in buying the lower alcohol content due to me not checking the %.
joythebaker
i think that should work.
Emma
Joy – I am going to try this soon, and I wanted to see if you have made it with bourbon, and if it’s as amazing as I imagine it would be? Do you have a preference? I saw another commenter said that light rum worked really well and had a smokier taste, so I can only imagine how delicious it would be with bourbon. . . .
Shandee
Vanilla storea in the cupboard, like you would store bought, and it can last upwards of a decade! I have been making Vanilla for a while now, and like a fine wine, good Vanilla will mature as it ages.
I typically use 15-18 beans in a 750ml bottle of alcohol, and within one month you have usable vanilla that is at least comparable to what you get in the store. Obviously, the longer you let it set, the better it gets.
I typically make a version with light rum and a version with vodka.
The different flavors of alcohol will give you different Vanilla results.
I personally prefer the slightly richer, smokier flavor that rum gives it. The vodka typically provides a clear crisp Vanilla flavor.
Once I started making my own Vanilla, I use it in EVERYTHING!!
Instead of sugar in my tomato sauce, I toss in a tablespoon of Vanilla. I don’t like sweet tomato sauce, and the vanilla does the job of the sugar in cutting down the acidity of the tomatoes.
Put a little in beef stroganoff for a lovely richer flavor.
And french toast batter with homemade Vanilla? I could die and go to heaven with that!
June
After the 2 months, do we need to store it in the fridge? or will it still be ok just on the shelf like store bought?
Amber
Just ordered my vanilla beans!
Carolyn Austin
does it go bad or does it have a long shelf life>
Larissa
Great recipe Joy…can’t wait to try this. We have recently given up fruit sugar/fructose and many of our converted recipes call for vanilla extract so this will save us heaps. Thanks so much!
Robyn
Making my first vanilla extract! I’m fifteen and a HUGE fan of Joy and baking in general, this is so great to know! Cannot wait till mine is done :)
Colleen
I just started a batch yesterday! I’m so excited and can’t wait to use it!
http://sewtheday.com/2012/03/21/making-vanilla-extract/
Rima
My daughter just told me about your site! It’s awesome! It just so happens that yesterday I was watching a program on Raymond Blanc, an amazing French chef with an incredible restaurant in England, Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, anyway, I am rambling…. He made a vanilla paste that took less than an hour. He made a simple syrup with sugar and water, let it cool. He then chopped several beans put those in a blender and added the syrup. You can store it for months in a jar in the fridge. Enjoy!
Mary
I just opened a batch I made 14 weeks ago. I used 8 great beans with a pint of vodka. It doesn’t look as dark or smell as good as the store bought stuff so I’m a bit disappointed. Haven’t tried it yet though. Is it supposed to be really dark and smell really strong?
Cimmanon
Can you use dried vanilla bean to make the extract?
joythebaker
i think so, yes!
Prissy Rudkin
It has always confused me how to make Vanilla Extract. I bought Vanilla Extract from Mexico and used the last of it. It was so much better than USA stuff. Not wanting to go to Mexico to get a bottle I looked up How to make Vanilla Extract and all the comments were just what I needed to hear. In my area, the bottle of Vanilla Beans were 2 to a bottle and were $9 and $10 dollars per bottle. I bought 3 bottles and could not open them up. A friend told me where to go to get them cheaper in my area and I found 3 beans to a bottle for right at $8.00 per bottle then I took the other ones back and got a refund. I placed 2 in a bottle of Vodka and 2 in a bottle of Brandy. Just couldn’t use 3 beans at that price. I will check out the ebay site to get a larger supply for my next batches. I started mine October 30, 2011 and can’t wait to see what I come up with using different alcohol. Thanks so much for the information I received from the comments and How to make Vanilla.
DJ!
I made this a few months ago, I used dark rum in mine. It’s so delicious! I use it in everything. I suggest everyone make this and then throw out you store bought stuff! Thanks for this post!
Deborah
Thanks for posting this recipe. I can’t wait to try it. I just bought vanilla beans on ebay here is the link.
http://cgi.ebay.ca/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=150605106807&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT
70 beans for $22 that’s including shipping. Came from France and very speedy shipping. I can’t wait to give vanilla extract for Christmas gifts.
Anne
I did a test run with all 3 alcohol choices to see which one I would prefer to give at Christmas. I’ve used each one in different recipes & decided that I am going to make all 3 batches to give away. Can’t wait! :)
Nicole
Can you reuse the beans to make another batch of vanilla extract?
joythebaker
sure! they just won’t be as strong!
Nicole
thanks!!!
Sheena
I’m attempting to make vanilla extract and today is Day 2. I’m just curious as to why the liquid is so cloudy. Is that normal? All the other pictures of homemade extracts that I’ve seen are clear, or have they been strained?
joythebaker
I’m not sure why you’re getting cloudy extract. What kind of alcohol did you use?
Conni
I just made some and am looking forward to it. Since the formula is 3 beans per cup of vodka or other alcohol, and I had 2 beans, I used 1/3 cup of bourbon for one bean and 1/3 cup of vodka for the other bean and put them in separate jars. I always save the glass spice jars with the plastic lids, like Spice Hunter or other brands. The one-bean mixture fills the jar about 2/3 full. It should work great, and I look forward to seeing which formula we like better.
Conni B
Brandy
I can’t wait to try this!!!
Lisa @ www.bakedinmaine.com
Woohoo!
What a super easy recipe and to think it’s taken me so long to find it….
I’m making some this weekend and sharing the recipe on my blog/site http://www.bakedinmaine.com
Cheers!
~Lisa
Cheryl
I second the recommendation for getting the beans from Vanilla Products USA (I bought directly from their website, not eBay). I got 1 lb. of Madagascar Bourbon Grade B Extract beans for $24.95 (approx. 150 beans). You do not want to get the Grade A beans because they contain more moisture and you will get a lot less per pound. The flavor comes from the pod and seeds, not the moisture in the bean.
I have read on Vanilla Review that the proper portion of beans to vodka is 6 beans per 8 oz. vodka. Anything less is vanilla flavored vodka.
Jackie
Just started my first batch today… super excited! :D
Cristie
For those who are asking about buying beans on eBay – I bought some from this company last year: http://stores.ebay.com/Vanilla-Products-USA
I got both Madagascar Bourbon beans and Tahitian Planifolia. Everyone I’ve asked says that while the Tahitian smells great, the Madagascar smells *amazing*. I use the Madagascar when I’m baking something where the vanilla flavor will really come through, and the Tahitian when it doesn’t matter much. But the Tahitian is also really really good, don’t get me wrong!
My main point here is that the vanilla beans from that company on eBay are really cheap, and they make GREAT vanilla extract. :)
use cheap vodka
dont use anything more pricey than $11 or so a handle for vodka. just run the cheap stuff through a brita or other activated carbon filter a bunch of times and it will be clean enough to use for any extract or tincture……or coctail.
Melody
I have been making my own Vanilla Extract for about a year now and I love it. I like to use a combination of Madagascar and Tahitian beans, and I use Svedka Vodka. It’s a little on the cheaper side, but tastes like a higher quality vodka.
Beverly Guay
My niece shared your website with me and I want to try making Homemade Vanilla Extract. Once it is done, what do you do with the beans..strain it or leave them in.
joythebaker
leave them right in the jar!
Lytricia
I have had the same vanilla bottle going for about 14 years (not exaggerating) …when it gets low…I just add another cup of booze and 3-4 more beans! There’s about 2″ of beans in the bottom of my jar…and the vanilla just keeps getting better and better. I use brandy instead of vodka. It would be interesting to try it with vodka for sure!
Lytricia
I have had the same vanilla bottle going for about 14 years (not exaggerating) …when it gets low…I just add another cup of booze and 3-4 more beans! There’s about 2″ of beans in the bottom of my jar…and the vanilla just keeps getting better and better. I use brandy instead of vodka. It would be interesting to try it with vodka for sure!
Michele
You mentioned that you bought some vanilla beans on ebay for cheap so I went and checked it out and they are super cheap! Are they even worth buying, would they be good to make extract with?
Joe
Actually Michele, the beans mentioned above in Mom24’s post says that she purchased Premium Vanilla beans which would mean grade “A”. Most extract is made from grade “B” Vanilla beans because of blemishes. Grade “B” is just as quality as “A” but have a blimish or two on them ususally. Grade “C” and lower are usually more oily and can be used for extract too, but usually not as good as “A” or “B”. These are a stal on Ebay, and yes they are wonderful to use for extract.
Aliza
My vanilla extract is about to be ready! I can’t wait to use it – and to make for others for the holidays next year!
Sue W.
I recently found an awesome place that specializes in Vanilla beans and saffron. Way way way less expensive that most other places I have looked at online. Their site is http://www.saffron.com/ . I bought my saffron there and it is extremely high quality and so much more reasonably prices that any other I have bought. With the saffron purchase they sent a free gift of vanilla beans .. they were much nicer than the ones I buy from my usual online spice place. That is http://wholespice.com/ . They usually have wonderful high quality spices I have never had any allergic reactions like I do to the stuff that comes from grocery store. However the saffron and vanilla beans from Vanilla, saffron imports tops them in both quality and price. Just thought I would share.
Leana
Do you strain out the seeds after it’s done?
Cathy
I’ve been making vanilla for years. My ingredients are a little different. I was told to use whatever proof vodka I wanted and only one bean per bottle, then let sit for a month. I like your version better. Makes sense to have a more potent alcohol content to draw out the vanilla oil. One question, is it necessary to cut the bean? I would think the oil would infuse regardless. By the way, just bought a package of Madagascar vanilla beans (2 in a bag) for only $2.99 at Old World Market. A lot cheaper than the grocery store!
Joy
I bought like 60 on ebay for really cheap!!
Alpha L
I appreciate the information and am looking forward to making vanilla extract. I have been making my on vanilla syrup for coffee for some months and the extract from the local stores is expensive and not always the same quality. This syrup is just like Starbucks and easy to make and the alcohol burns off. Instructions as follows: 1 pot large enough to hold ingredients, 2 cups water, 2 cups sugar, 2 to 4 tablespoons vanilla extract (depending on your own taste). (1) Bring the water & sugar to a boil, dissolving the sugar completely. (2) Take the pot off the burner and add the extract, stirring to completely mix. (3) Let sit until cool. (4) Pour into tight fitting container (I have used everything from a liquor bottle to a mason jar). (5) Refrigerate.
Mom24@4evermom
Okay, I have never bought vodka or bourbon before, and I am completely stumped. Am I looking for the good stuff here or will anything do? Any chance you’ll recommend a particular kind/brand? Also, I bought what are labeled Premium Bourbon-Madagascar beans–do you think they’d be better in vodka or bourbon? I’m so confused, but I have an abundance of beans, I’ve already stuck a couple in sugar, I really want to make some good extract.
Thanks for your help.
joythebaker
those are some great beans. go with a clean vodka. absolute vodka is good. hope this helps!
Caryl
@ Jenny-Rose, I just read on Mother Nature Network today that vanilla extract does not go bad…it is considered a “forever-food” as the alcohol content prevents any kind of spoilage…just keep it in a dark cupboard. Thank for the recipe…just what I need for some last minute Christmas gifts. I am going to have to put a do not open until February sticker on them thought ;)
Jenny-Rose
This sounds amazing! How long is the shelf life of the vanilla once it’s brewed and cracked open?
Karen
Talia – Doesn’t regular, store-bought vanilla extract contain alcohol? It sure does taste like it when I accidentally lick (I know, ew) my finger when I spill a little. Blech. :)
cmoore
Why not just put vanilla beans in the bottle the alcohol came in? Sure cuts down on the steps AND the reasons to procrastinate ;-)
Joy
Exactly. I went through all the trouble to find a glass bottle, but was never thrilled with my choice. Got it home with the vanilla bean, vodka, and extra jar. Split the bean in half and started to add it to the jar and thought… duh… I’ll just drop it in the vodka bottle. !!! Love it! Really taste great and makes wonderful cookies, banana bread, etc!!
Lyn
Great recipe! Can’t wait to try it!
How long will the extract keep for?
Thanks!
Talia
I’m confused — it seems like this would just make vanilla flavored liquor. I was hoping to do this for my sister for Christmas then I noticed two things: (1) it takes two months to make extract and (2) she doesn’t drink. *Cue sad trombone*
Megan
Talia,
All extracts, be it Vanilla, Lemon, Almond, etc. Have a HIGH alcohol content. It doesn’t seem like it be if you read the tiny print on any extract you get at the store, you have about more alcohol in it than a bottle of beer or wine. I understand that your sister doesn’t drink, I have a friend who doesn’t either, but its kinda what you get when you make or buy extract. I hope you find this comment helpful my dear! Good luck Christmas shopping for your dear sister!
<3 Megs
Talia
Thanks, Megan! I’ve decided to do this anyway and tell her just not to use it for two months. And I had no idea that extract actually had alcohol in it — then I looked in my cupboard. Amazing the things you learn when you read labels! Thanks again!
Karen B
Hi Joy,
I’ve been eyeing this ever since you first posted it but never got around to actually getting all the ingredients I needed (finding a mason-ish jar took a ridiculously long time). Buuuuuut: my vanilla beans are soaking in a wonderful bath of bouron now! Exciting! :)
Kimberly V.
Hey you guys i get my vanilla beans from etsy, heres the link to this great seller:
http://www.etsy.com/listing/61947781/4-bourbon-madagascar-vanilla-beans?ref=sr_gallery_6&ga_search_query=vanilla+beans&ga_search_type=supplies&ga_page=&order=&includes%5B0%5D=tags&includes%5B1%5D=title&filter%5B0%5D=supplies
Sue
Hi Joy! Love your Blog, recipes, facebook page! When you did ASK JOY a few weeks ago, I didn’t have a question, but now I do. My mother just gave me a HUGE bottle of pure, natural vanilla that she thinks my brother brought back from his last trip to Italy… which was probably 20 years ago (maybe more!!). Now, I just spent a week at my Mom’s house and I threw out a ridiculous amount of expired, ugly, nasty food so I’m leary. I did bring it home with the hope that it ages well. It smells fine. Thanks Joy!
I’m going to try making my own for fun too. Thanks for these instructions.
Aliza
Love your blog and stumbled across this recipe recently! Just got my started and can’t wait to try it in a few months. Thanks for the fun/useful idea!
Mama Maria
Oh Joy, you are amazing!
I’ve been “brewing” my homemade vanilla for about 3 weeks, (it’s so exciting!)
When I first looked for beans I almost had a heart attack. They are VERY expensive but I ended finding this gem of a place:
http://www.amadeusvanillabeans.com/store/organic/extraction_beans.asp
I got half a pound for about $27.00 and they are glorious. :)
I can’t wait to give this wonderful gift to my friends and of course keep some for myself.
BTW, I got a great vodka at Trader Joe’s, “Vodka of the gods”.
Thanks Joy!
P.S. When I give this, should I strain the beans or leave it as is?
Miranda Smith
Can’t wait to make this ;) I really like the idea of making my own stuff, homemade is always the best!
I have read the whole blog looking for some ideas on combinations.. not really sure which way to go. I bake a lot of cookies, cakes, pies and make homemade buttercream. Any suggestions on a combination of beans with a type of alcohol? And this might be a stupid question but is this alcohol still potent, if someone drank it would they get intoxicated? Thanks!
Suzy
This is so awesome! I wish I found this earlier, so I could make some extract for Christmas gifts. Oh well, more for me^_~ (nah, of course i’ll share. sharing is caring)
Anyways! I wanted to share a little tidbit. My husband brews his own beer and the store he buys his supplies from has tons of spices and such for flavoring. They have various vanilla beans too which are priced pretty decent, most start at around $1.75 and go down the more you buy. So checking out your local home brew store is a great alternative.
Also, he says that they have big bags of local honey for about $5. I’d never thought to think of a place like this for baking needs: )
Heather
I got my beans from here:
http://stores.ebay.com/Vanilla-Products-USA
and they were fantastic! And very inexpensive, I think I ended up spending :$12 for 85 beans! Yay! Thanks for such a great site, Joy!
izzy
i just wanted you to know that, just like half your readers, i have two and a half cups of this stuff marinating in my cupboard and cute tiny bottles sitting by my bed… i’m sure amazon loves you for suggesting to all of us that we do this. :)
Melanie
I just received some Tahitian Vanilla Beans I ordered….the cheapest I could find. $4.95 for 11….ordered 2 pkg and with shipping it came to $14.85 for 22 beans. I think that is a good deal. Now all I need is the booze…hehe. I am going to make this recipe for some Christmas presents.
Thank you!!
Jesse
You can also do this:
buy about 6-8 plums, pierce with a fork,
add them to the bourbon with the vanilla beans plus about 3-4 cinnamon sticks and some sugar (as much or little as you want)
give it a big stir to help dissolve the sugar and put that in a dark corner for a couple of months, then, have some amazing goodness for christmas time, or, just a lazy cold night at home with some Panettone or some ice cream.
Celia
Joy, I’m in the process of making my extract. It’s only been a month but it just looks and smells great. I plan on never buying vanilla extract from the store again. Thanks for the recipe.
Wendy
It’s not going to lose it’s ‘boozy’ characteristics. It’s a pure extract, no sugar syrup has been added.. it’s not going to be sweet! That’s a good thing. Add a little to a cup of coffee or something that you can sweeten, then you’ll really be able to taste it. Thanks so much for the instruction, my vanilla is deeeeeeelicious!
jill
YAWZA! Me too…just opened the jar…so excited after 2 months of waiting…and shaking. Then, smelled it and blinked. Took a taste, and WOA. Tastes like I just took a shot of straight Bourbon! This isn’t a hard thing to do…so…what aren’t we doing correctly Joy?
Thanks!
Kara Bagley
I had the same problem as amy, the alcohol flavor is way strong
Natasha @ Saved by the Egg Timer
Perfect! I posted not long ago a homemade peppermint extract with all the herbs growing on my deck. I was wondering how to make vanilla extract so I can make organic without spending $20+ a bottle! I will be starting this tomorrow with my bottle of absolut :) Thanks!
lauren
Hi – I stumbled across this and am interested in making extract for Christmas gifts. I’m curious though – and maybe this is a really dumb question – does the recipe work just as well if I cut it? I want to put the beans in small, cute jars with cork tops – maybe that hold about 2/3 cup. So if I just use 2 beans, is that fine? Also, I want people to be able to just add more vodka and make the extract last forever, so I shouldn’t strain it or anything, right? Thanks!
joythebaker
i think you’re totally on the right track with two beans in each jar…. and just leave them in there so people can just add more booze to the extract to keep it going.
amy
Joy… mine still smells… boozy.. what to do?? It has been WAY longer than 2 monthes.
Annie
hi love face.
so i have 2 types of vanilla extract a’brewin.
when i give them their weekly shake, i notice some major random floaties.
is this normal?
should i just strain it when these babies are ready to hatch?
i fear that i have somehow failed… assure me wise one.
-Annie
jennifer
I was thinking about selling real cupcakes (real organic butter, organic sugar, and organic flour) at my farmers market here next year and I was trying to think about how to do the vanilla extract. I saw an organic vodka from rain! This is great!!! How long is it good for after the two months it takes to make?
Thank you!
Jennifer
joythebaker
it’s good forever!
Katie
Joy,
I happened upon your blog several weeks ago and have since become an ardent reader. Man, am I diggin’ your chocolate molasses cookies…but I can hardly wait to create this nilla XOX-tract to give away as gifts for my upcoming wedding!
One question, can I also add cinnamon sticks? If so, how many would you recommend per cup, if I were to use 3 vanilla beans?
Donna
I always add a sugar syrup to mine at the end. Have you ever done that? I tried making it with Bourbon but didn’t care for the taste. Vodka works wonderful. I always have a stash of vanilla extract in the cabinet. We joke that people waddle when they leave our house because of my vanilla extract in the desserts! lol
Chelle
Vanilla beans can be bought individually for $1.00 a piece at whole foods, in the spice/tea aisle. They are in one of those glass jar things that look like they should have candy in them. I’ve used them to make vanilla sugar, but this looks like a better idea. I’m going to try it soon, thanks.
Bonnie
Hi Joy!
Just discovered your site and love it! Question- do you use your homemade vanilla in the same quantities as you did with the store bought stuff? Less? more? Can’t wait to try this :)
Thanks so much!
Bonnie
joythebaker
i usually use the same amount as store bought vanilla. sometimes just a touch more.
Lynne (thetwistedchef)
JOY… I MADE VANILLA!
Heck YA! you totally rock for sharing this recipe. I used some good ol’ Sailor Jerry’s rum and loads of vanilla pods. Now to wait. my two months aren’t up yet.
But I am giddy with excitiment. how amazing that soon i’ll get to use my own vanilla extract?! pretty cool!
and all thanks to you. Cheers!
joythebaker
high five. on the real.
Adam Lowell
vanilla extract is definitely what i’m giving away for Christmas this year.
thank you, joy!
Shaks
Is there a substitute for alcohol?
joythebaker
i’m afraid not.
Cynthia
To those wanting to sell the vanilla at craft shows, you need to check the laws in your state. In my state, hard liquor is regulated and sold only through state stores. It would be illegal for me to sell any product that contained alcohol (I know this because I make room sprays with fragrance oils and vodka and I can’t sell it). Your state may be different but you MIGHT be required to have a special liquor license to sell it as well as be limited WHERE you can sell it.
I just ordered my beans today. I can’t wait to get my extracts going!
Julia B.
The shelf-life for pure vanilla extract is indefinite. In an interview with Ina Garten, she talks about making her own extract and said that she simply adds beans and more alcohol to her stash. When you have a good quality alcohol for the curing, you won’t need to worry about the shelf life, especially vodka. Also, if you don’t use all your vanilla beans, they stay fresh in your refrigerator for up to six months in a sealed container.
ls ellison
Perfect for gifts!!
I have a question, though…after you put the lids on the jars do you need to seal the jars in boiling water like you do when canning? Thanks!!
joythebaker
no need to seal the jar at all!
ls ellison
Oh, good!! That is my least favorite part of canning.
Thanks!!
joy admirer
Ellison:
NEVER DO THAT!!!! Alcohol is flammable.
Although you can sterilize in pressured water steam or boiling water, a leak of alcohol near flame may cause fire or injuries.
Moreover, alcohol (CH3-CH2-OH) is a natural preservative, as Joy said there is no need for anything else.
ALWAYS HANDLE ALCOHOL WITH CARE!!!!!
You may ask how is it distilled, well: very careful and isolating from fire.
joythebaker
hey dude.
will you email me at joy at joythebaker dot com.
we should chat.
thanks
joy
shasta
I ordered my beans this morning and have had two bottles of absolute laying around….aahhh I can’t wait! I think I will sell them at the craft shows!
Any idea where to get the bottles?
Thanks for the recipe!!
joythebaker
I love classic Ball jars that you can probably get from the grocery or hardware store.
delicieux
I am SO going to have to try this. I’m sick of spending a fortune on vanilla extract and this is SO easy. Thanks for the fantastic tip!!
Lauren
this is AWESOME – so excited to try it. Are there ant worries as far as contamination as with making flavored oils?
joythebaker
the alcohol with keep away any contamination worries.
Michele
Do you know how long it will keep in the mason jars?
Kentucky_Lea
As long as the jars you use are sterilized and your mixture doesn’t become contaminated it’ll last indefinitely, just like the vodka/booze you are starting with!
Jeannette
I bought a 20 oz jar of vanilla extract and I can’t wait until that runs out so that I can try this!!
Samantha
In the September issue of Cook’s Illustrated, there’s a recipe for homemade vanilla extract that only takes a week! Same basic instructions, only you heat the vodka at the start. I broke my jar last night, and I’m not sure what to do about waiting a week. I’m very glad not to have to wait a month!
Nadiya
Do you leave your beans in the jar of booze forever? I’ve had mine for about 6 months and haven’t seen anything go wrong yet… but then again I’ve said that before with mixed results.
Heather
The tutorial I used last year to make this said to strain out the solids (with cheesecloth, probably) after 6 months, but I still haven’t got around to it, and it’s been a year, and no problems yet! The directions also suggested re-using the strained beans to flavor sugar. Obviously wouldn’t be very strong, but a hint of vanilla seems better than throwing them out right away :-)
Mom24@4evermom
I’m curious about the shelf life…any idea how long it would be “good”? Also, I’ve never tasted bourbon or vodka, any recommendations on which to use? Thanks.
Heather
I made some of this last year (much stronger, though, 25 beans to 750ml vodka), and it’s fantastic! Since it’s extracted in alcohol, it should last for years (but I’m going through mine pretty quick!).
I used a Icelandic vodka, which the helpful liquor-store employee told me had the clearest, most neutral flavor. That’ll give you a pure vanilla flavor. The bourbon is more, hm, caramel-y? Have fun!
Bonnie@WhatAboutPie
That is great! I have been telling my husband that I wish I could splurge and buy a gallon of vanilla because I go through it fast and it is so expensive! I’m thinking this just might be the answer to my prayers! Thank you so much!
TJ
Heh! All you need now are cute bottles, corks or caps for them, and ribbons, and you’ve got Christmas presents covered for all the in-laws! TJ
michelle
Are there any combimations (kinds of alcohol + certain vanilla beans) that you recommend? Clearly different combinations will make the vanilla taste differently. I was just wondering your recommendations.
Thanks
Jordan
Does anyone know the approximate calorie content of these homemade varieties?
Store bought is 12.5 calories per tsp, and since I usually end up using about a tablespoon each time (in drinks) it can really add up.
Has anyone ever just used 4 or 5 times the amount of beans, and diluted with water for each use (or diluted a smaller batch)? I’d like to reduce the calorie content without sacrificing intensity. I’d guess that the alcohol would act as a preservative so I don’t imagine contamination would be an issue once water is added… anyone?
Anna
Please dont use water with your vanilla beans. Some flavors can only be extracted with alcohol, and this is one of them.
If you use this for drinks anyway, you could just add this to the alcohol you were going to use for that drink and just not soak it as long. Alternatively, try cutting down the calories using splenda instead of sugar. It doesnt quite taste the same but bad vanilla would taste worst in my opinion.
Also, Im not trying to be mean, but if you have an eating disorder, please get help. 40 calories is not something to stress over.
joy admirer
Anna is right! The best result is achieved with alcohol. You can also prepare an infusion with water, but you should prepare it when you are going to use it. I like to blend sugar with vanilla beans, in a regular blender the beans may pulverize some coarse, but that is something I like.
When you use this sugar for some desert like tapioca pudding, or just in milk with cocoa,vanilla,sugar,and malt, the sugar holds pulverized particles of vanilla beans, the coarse parts hydrate and become little bigger. I like to taste it, is something analogous to cinnamon sticks, that are nice to chew. Some people may not like to chew particles of vanilla beans, I think is the only way to know it is to try.
If you do not get good results one reason may be that the beans sold to you were previously soaked in alcohol, dried and sold as pure, in Mexico, some merchants do this, do not buy vanilla beans if they are in a jar with alcohol, look wet, or smell to alcohol or have not an intense smell to vanilla (believe it or not in some markets in Mexico they sold in this way by not very honest merchats)
Kentucky_Lea
You wouldn’t have to dilute with anything, just make as “double” or “triple” strength and reduce the amount you use in your drink or recipe. This is how the Watson brand sells all of their extracts and you really can tell the difference in flavor intensity.
Just curious… are you currently using vanilla or vanilla flavoring? I can’t imagine using a tablespoon of vanilla in a drink – the vanilla flavoring or syrup sold in the store is something else entirely, it is a sugar syrup flavored with vanilla, quite different than vanilla extract.
Lia
I have about 24 mason jars left over from an art show and nothing to do with them. Now I am going to become a vanilla extract wholesaler.
Jackie
:) you made me laugh! I was thinking the same thing about my left over jam jars :)
Julia
Sweet!! I’m definitely going to do this. What an awesome idea to give away as a gift too!! I am definitely going to invest in vanilla bean paste, but this is great to have on hand when you’re too cheap to buy the crappy store bought vanilla (which is nasty!!)
Sue
THANK YOU! I really want to make some!
jeny
i’m on the vanilla train! how about making ur own brown sugar? i haven’t done it yet. i like dark brown sugar to bake my cookies with. i suppose i should just do it.
Kae
I didn’t actually know anything but homemade brown sugar existed until I was about 17… Seriously. My mom always made it using blackstrap molasses and sugar – the usage of blackstrap is essential. In a bowl, pour a couple of cups of sugar and a drizzle a few tablespoons of molasses into it. Mix with a fork or your fingers (generally fingers work the best… also, nothing better than licking them off at the end) until no clumps of molasses remain.. How dark you make the brown sugar depends on how much molasses you add in. I’ve always used this for baking without a problem. Also, its phenomenal in oatmeal or anywhere that the flavor needs to stand on its own.
Shannon @ bakeandbloom.com
Wow!!
Regarding the alchohol, do you taste the bourbon/rum if you’re using that?
Lauren
I have been considered making my own vanilla for years. Thanks for the push. Do you know how long the shelf life is? I would like to make a few dozen small jars to give the family as a Christmas gift along with a collection of my favorite recipes.
EmSue
It’s alcohol. Doesn’t that last pretty much forever? But I’ll be using this stuff all the time! It won’t have time to go bad! :)
Personal Trainer
Great information… My clients love this crafty sort of preparation for meals and I will forward all of them this post. Thanks!
Sally
What a great idea! I use so much of this stuff it isn’t funny so making my own will save me a lot of money – and it’s so simple too. Thanks! :)
celia
I didn’t think this was possible! I have tons of vodka(don’t ask me how). I love your new website-congrats.
Vickie
Thank you so much for this post! I am so excited to try this!
Ricky
Wonderful!!! In good old Germany we use vanilla sugar, which is nice, but for some things a little weak. So sometimes you want the sugar kind and sometimes the extract, so this is perfect.
Carlita
This sounds fabulous! How long will it last (stored room temp in the pantry)?
Deb in Indiana
Pretty much forever. Just top it off when it gets low. You may want to throw in a new bean or two after several toppings off.
katie
Awesome! Thank you for the great recipe and the great blog!
Emily
I started my extract in August using light rum (it was what I had on hand). I opened the jar a couple weeks ago just to see if it was smelling like vanilla extract and I was overwhelmed by the alcohol! Does it take more time to smell great like the manufactured extract? I couldn’t imagine putting this in my precious cakes at this point. :)
Robyn R
Hi Joy,
Quick question for you about the extract – I started mine on October 4th and I am diligently giving the jars a shake every week – I’ve got 2 mason jars going, one with vodka and one with rum. Anyhoo, its darkening up quite nicely but there is a lot of vanilla debris floating around – when its time for the extract to come out of hibernation, should I run it through cheese cloth to capture the bits or leave as is?
I’ve bought some lovely old milk glass spice jars on Etsy that I’ll giving the vanilla in as Christmas pressies.
Thanks!!!
Mama B
I’ve been making my own for years. I use the bourbon beans in brandy, and I love the rich, mellow flavour of it. I’ve never had a bottle explode, but I always leave some head space. Interesting that you had that happen.
Kate D
What fun this is! I might be nipping at the vanilla to check on its progress… hee hee! Thanks for the great idea and all the vanilla sources and wisdom.
Jeff
I found this while looking for a way to extract the flavoring from caramel. I wonder if the process is similar. Also if I wanted to ask about the alcohol in the vodka. Isn’t it still there when the extract is done? I would want to use it to help flavor drinks, but I don’t’want to have any alcohol in the drinks. Is that a problem?
Either way thanks for the wonderful recipe.
Damjana
Oh and I put it in the fridge this time
Damjana
I was surprised that my bottle of vanilla extract in the making exploded!
I put some alcohol and some rum with about 1/2 vanilla bean into a tiny glass bottle with plastic cap yesterday evening. Today in the morning it broke into pieces by itself on my desk. Might it be the case that I filled the bottle with alcohol to the very top edge? Now I’m making another one but I’m a bit afraid of it. Did something like this ever happen to you?
Arleen
I just got back from Tahiti and bought vanilla from a plantation there. The grower said to use rum (light or dark) to soak the beans. He said the sugars in the rum will make better extract. He suggested putting 20 vanilla beans split into a bottle of rum. Wait 8 weeks then start using the extract. When the bottle is half gone, add more rum to fill the bottle. He didn’t say how long you could keep doing this but one lady said she had been doing it for 10 years and was still getting good extract from her original beans. I can’t wait to make up my batch.
amanda
I just found this recipe and have order my vanilla beans. Can’t wait till they get here. I wondering if anyone has made vanilla extract using amaretto?
Rachel
Ooh thank you! There’s some christmas presents sorted!
Sars
I love this idea…I’m planning 2 match a batch but does it have a expiry date at all?
Wendy
I’m all over this one. It sounds like something I couldn’t possibly mess up. (I think.)
Lindsey
i have 2 bottles in the making right now :)
Like others, I just used the big vodka bottles, but will probably pour into tiny cute bottles when ready to give as gifts!
I bought 1/4 lb of Bourbon/Madagascar beans from z naturals I believe, and I even made some vanilla sugar! Haven’t used it yet, but am wanting to with your sugar cookie recipe!
Randi Lynne
Thanks Joy and Bob for the good advice. I bought beans off of e-bay and have 6 batches that I started today. I did Madagascar and Tahitian beans each in vodka, bourbon and rum (okay, so I went a little overboard). I can’t wait to compare them, use them in baking and to give as gifts. Thanks so much for the inspiring post to try something new and creative!!
Strawberryparfait
Ooooooo my mom has made vanilla like this for years….in fact I request it for Christmas :) Tastes so much better then the fake stuff.
Damjana
Oh, I’m so glad I came upon your site after Brendi (branappetit) mentioned you as her big source of inspiration. How funny, I’m just about to buy my very first bottle of vanilla extract. But for sure I’m going to buy 3 vanilla beans and put them into a jar of our home-made (very strong) alcohol…and in 2 months’ time my oatmeal is going to feel like in heaven;).
And I agree, your site is so very cute!
zach
i just made this yesterday, and i cannot wait! i might even make another batch at the same time, so i can give small bottles away as gifts.
i’m going to let it steep until november; i know it only takes two months but i figure it only gets better with time, and then it’ll be ready for all the awesome holiday cookies and cakes that will be made.
so, so excited. :-)
Soupdiva
I have to say this post inspired me. I want to mention a store that rhymes with Bostco that sells vanilla beans in a 10 pack. Two glass vials with 5 beans each. NOTE: You need to call the store directly as they are clearancing these out at $4.97 each. YEP! That is less than 50 cents a bean. Not all stores have them in stock, but it’s worth the effort and gas money to get the beans so cheap!!!!!!!!! I have already made some!
Bob Taylor
My wife uses so much vanilla extract in baking that long ago I decided that the teeny tiny $10 bottles of good extract just weren’t worth it. So I started making homemade vanilla extract for her to use. I figured why not? I make all kinds of other things that include alcohol and spices (beer, mead), this is just an extension of that.
Some tips I have to offer:
(1) I love you, Joy – I really do! – but I have to suggest to everyone: read this guide: http://www.vanillareview.com/make-vanilla-extract/
(2) Buy “extract” or “grade B” vanilla beans. They’re less expensive, don’t taste or smell any different from “grade A” beans (they’re just not as purty), and they contain less water so you get more vanilla for your buck.
(3) The Ebay seller “Vanilla Products USA” has some pretty darn good prices on beans. Link: http://stores.shop.ebay.com/Vanilla-Products-USA__W0QQ_armrsZ1
(4) More vanilla beans are better. The guide I linked in (1) suggests 1.0 ounce beans – split, scraped, and chopped – per cup of spirits. This makes good extract, but even Joy will tell you that professional bakers use twofold extract, which contains twice as much vanilla bean per cup of spirits. More really is better in this case. On the other side of that coin, I have to point out: using less than an ounce of beans per cup of spirits is just going to make vanilla flavored alcohol, not vanilla extract.
(5) If you can afford to do so when the whim strikes you, absolutely go ahead and use spirits other than neutral vodka to make your extract! Yes, the flavor of the extract will be different if you use bourbon or dark rum or even cognac as your spirits, but that’s the POINT! This will give your baked goods that you use the vanilla extract in a “house” character – nobody else will make chocolate chip cookies that taste quite like yours because they don’t have your “secret ingredient.” =)
(6) Six weeks is the reasonable minimum amount of time that you will have to wait before the extract will be usable, but that doesn’t mean you have to strain the extract off the beans and package it at that point. The spirits will continue to extract flavor from the pods for up to 6 months, so it makes sense to make a lot of extract at one time and just pull out 8 fl. oz. of extract when your little bottle empties. That’s what I do for my wife, anyhow.
I hope this information is useful to some of you. =)
julie
It is! Thanks!
Lisa
I make my own vanilla extract too with vodka and Madagascan beans. I just throw the pods in the bottle after I’ve scraped out the seeds because they still have a beautiful scent and a lot of flavour to give. And it’s nice to be able to use them a second time instead of throwing them away!
john
Amazon sells great Madagascar beans for as low as 50 cents per.
Holly
Weird coincidence — I’m looking at my note reminding me to try making vanilla extract and thinking, “Holly, go do it. Start now!” Then, in usual Holly style, I decided to put it off and read a blog post instead. How odd that the post I read was this one. Okay, no more procrastinating — it’s to the kitchen with me!
jolynn@thedish
What a great project! I’m going to make it and give it to my friends along with my homemade granola for Christmas.
Cameron
I’ve been working on my own vanilla extract since January. I’ve got a big old jar of it going. It just keeps getting better and better with each week. I used Tahitian beans as well and vodka. I’ve heard that Bourbon beans might be the best for extract. Maybe next time. Such a good idea for Christmas presents!
Ysalabel
Did you know that vanilla was actually originary from mexico?!!! it was exported accross the world with the conquistador! And most likely by the french to madasgarscar and polinesia (old colonies)… So the flavor of the mexican vanilla is probably one of the best, for this reason that it’s the closest to it’s original taste!
Thanks for the tip, great like ever…
Take care sweet gateau…
Miffy
i made mine for the first time couple of weeks ago and it’s sitting in the darkest spot in my pantry. i used boubon and madagascar beans, not sure if that’s the best combination but experiment experiment ladies :)
can’t wait to smell/taste the results in a few months.
Wonk
Natty, I’ve made Vanilla Rum in the past too. However I didn’t leave the beans in so long and as mentioned earlier up I don’t split the beans either.
I don’t use the rum for cooking though, but with coke ;) Cheaper than Bacardi’s Vanilla Rum if you’re partial to it!
Shelly
Guess what everyone is getting for Christmas!? This is GREAT!
kyle m
If i use the beans for something like creme brulee and scrape out the seeds, can I use the stalks for the extract? I know stalks keep their flavor b/c I put them in my sugar container after using them and drying them out
agl
I saw this post last week and just got back from Whole Foods, vanilla beans in hand to make this. Looking forward to the results.
Connie
Oh my goodness, I was just wondering how to do this!
kevin
I like my vodka straight, please. Great idea you have there. Why not make your own. Your writing makes me smile. And I am NOT an easy smile to get.
Stiffler
a doily!
i’ll take the rum, hold the vanilla bean, please.
never thought of making my own vanilla extract, but might just give it a try.
Julie
I’ve never gone back to buying vanilla again after starting to make my own extract. The flavor is so much more distinct, and the price point is fantastic! Thanks for spreading the homemade word!
Kate @ Savour Fare
Here’s what I’m thinking Bourbon + vanilla beans in some fabulous cocktail. Hmmm, must think further …
When Pigs Fly
That looks amazing. I’m excited to try it. Think I will opt for rum. Can’t wait to start baking cookies and use my new secret ingredient.
JK
This is great! Thanks! :) I’m always running out of the tiny bottles of vanilla from the store!! & what a cute idea (to give them as gifts) !
Natty
I love homemade vanilla extract! I made over 20 bottles during the holiday season and gave them away as gifts. I use a ratio of one ounce beans to one cup liquor. I love how all my baking turns up slightly speckled due to the “caviar” from the beans. Great project! I’m making my next batch with rum. Yummy!
Millie
I LOVE making my own vanilla extract! It’s so much cheaper! I go through quite a bit of vanilla and usually do end up buying the $9 bottle that only lasts a couple of weeks. So, my dear hubby decided “I’m going to find out where we can get some vanilla beans online.” For the cost of half a bottle of extract, we now have enough for about six bottles or more. (Sadly, I’ve already used about half of it. hehe.) Thanks for sharing this Joy! As always, you’re awesome. ;)
Magpie Ima
I started making my own vanilla extract a couple of years ago and felt like an idiot for not doing so sooner. Kudos to you for sharing this simple but brilliant project. have found amazingly good deals on vanilla beans through ebay–extract quality beans are very reasonably priced. My favorite extract is made with dark rum.
Lucy
I’ve never thought of making my own extract before – but I totally get your point about how expensive it is! What a GREAT idea :D
Anne Hall
I am sooooo excited to try this! I love vanilla and go through it so quickly! How important is the quality of the vodka or bourbon that you use to the final product?
Noelia
Thankis for this post Joy!! It’s the first time I ever leave a reply in a blog and this worth it!!! I live in Argentina and it’s really difficult end expensive to find vainilla extract around here…so your kindness worth millions!!! thank you ver much.. I’m gonna try this for sure.
Winker
Great minds think alike!
I have a three week old batch in my cupboard. My mom used to make when we were kids. I got a cute little jar from the flea market to put it in too. Some day I might get around to a post, but I could never write it as eloquently as you have!
Kim
Hi Joy! How are you? Thank you sooo much for this recipe. Vanilla extract is ridiculously expensive these days and although vanilla beans are pretty up there as well, you get more for your money by making it yourself. I’m definately gonna try this. Thank you again.
Stacy
O
M
G!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
YOU ROCK!!!! #1.) You gave me a link to buy vanilla beans MUCH cheaper then I can buy them at the store (thank you, thank you, thank you) and #2.) You taught us how to make our own vanilla extract!!! Awesome!!!
Vive
So funny — I went to the store tonight to buy ingredients for the root beer float cake (!!) I’m going to make tomorrow for my birthday dinner party on Saturday. (What do I want for my birthday? To cook for friends.) I needed some vanilla extract, and as I stood looking at the options I thought, “I wonder how you make vanilla extract.” I logged on when I got home to write down the root beer cake recipe, and look what I found! I love it when that happens!
anna
I’ve just been storing my spent vanilla pods (after scraping the seeds for other uses, and sometimes after using the pods themselves for infusion and then cleaning them very well) in a big jar of vodka. You don’t waste the seeds that way and it’s like vanilla sugar (which I already have multiple jars of) – you just add more of one or the other as you go. It’s not quite ready yet but I have used it in ice creams.
The Blushing Hostess
Oh, glad to know this for use at a later date. As I wipe baby spot up from my shoulder and the test of the chicken with preserved lemon dish from my skirt, I just do not have it in me… “Hello? Pea Pod?…”
Catherine
omg! i did NOT know that you use booze when creating vanilla extract! thanks for the fact! i totally agree with lauren your pictures are sooo good, and tempting! can’t wait to hear how the extract turns out!
<3’s and best dishes! =]
Sara
That sounds so easy and fantastic! I can’t wait to try it
Greg
In a very similar vein, I have a bottle of homemade vanilla vodka — open a bottle of moderately good vodka, toss in one vanilla bean, allow to brew. Delicious. (I just leave the bean in it as we consume, so the vanilla flavor gets gradually stronger over time)
Lauren
Agh. I have a request, Can you please stop posting such beautiful and darned tempting photos on your blog! OK, well, don’t stop, but my god! You make me want to eat everything, bake everything, taste everything! Which would be ood if I also didn’t have a somewhat lazy personality. I may have to resort to *shudder* self improvement!
Food Hunter
thanks for this. I can’t wait to try it.
Deanna
Im excited to try this. Thanks for sharing the recipe.
Deanna
This is great!! Thanks so much :)
Sagan
You are my hero.
So… got a recipe for almond extract, as well? :)
Jayme
Bah! I’ve been meaning to do this for at least 2 months now…coulda already had me some finished extract! I gotta make a stop to buy some vodka. Will do this weekend fo sho.
Lizzie
Thank you for this! I can’t tell you how frustrating it is that no supermarket seems to sell vanilla extract in glass jars anymore, let alone *real* vanilla extract–not that imitation stuff. But the 2 month waiting period is a little sad! Oh well, I’m definitely doing this anyway! Thanks again!!
Julie
Thank you! I’ve been wanting to make my own, and we’re almost out…this was just the incentive I needed to try to for myself!
Errin
This is so very, very cool! Thank you.
Sarah
Great idea! I can’t wait to give this a shot. Just curious, does all vanilla extract use booze?
Jessi
So, hold up… I’ve been spending way too much on grocery store vanilla extract when making my own is *this* easy?!? Hot damn!
Maika
What an excellent idea. My friends are getting homemade vanilla for the holidays. I need to find some cute 1 cup jars. That way I can just make the individual gifts, leaving the beans inside.
I’ve been buying my vanilla at Trader Joe’s it is very reasonable and the flavor is good.
Nosheteria
My uncle used to make vanilla extract for me every holiday season. It was like gold! I would use it year-round in all of my baking, and would finish it up right around Thanksgiving– just in time for another batch. Thanks for the recipe.
Pamela M
I just started making my own vanilla extract this year. I’ve got a 750 ml bottle of vanilla extract that I started with 10 Tahitian vanilla beans and a cheap vodka (you can go with other alcohols and no need to go expensive on the booze) back in February of this year. It started out smelling like plain vodka, but now it smells like the richest vanilla, even without opening the bottle! If I had known it was this easy (set it and forget it), I would’ve done this years ago.
From what I can tell, this extract lasts forever as long as you keep adding more alcohol and beans (yes, even used — just rinse them thoroughly if they’ve been steeped in milk), and it gets even better and more syrupy as it ages. Someone said they’ve had one bottle going for decades now.
cori
I made these as Christmas gifts this year. The longer they sit, the better they get! I bought the vanilla beans in bulk online, but they weren’t the fat, pretty beans that I love- though they got the job done!
Phoo-D
What a great idea! I actually have an over abundance of vanilla beans from a spice buying binge in Indonesia. This would be the perfect way to use some of them. Do you think that once the extract is finished, I could still use the beans to make vanilla sugar?
steph (whisk/spoon)
i make my own extract, too. i have a nice one going right now with golden rum as the base. when i have a been where i’ve scraped the seeds out for something else, i pop the pod in my jar and top it up with more rum. smells so good, and the jar looks so cute on the counter!
Jennifer
Neat!
marielle
ahhh,, a person after my own heart. I make vanilla extract too after reading that awesome thread on egullet. I buy a 750ml bottle of vodka, chop and scrape up 12 tahitian vanilla beans (it’s the closest flavor to dominican vanilla that I grew up with) and let it sit for minimum 6 months but it’s best after a year.
It’s amazing and I have my parents hooked on it. I had to send my mom with a small supply because my dad says that my poundcake recipe is not the same without it. I think I bought about 50 super oily and plump vanilla beans from vanillabeansusa on ebay. Super reasonable and they came vacuum packed.
Lucy
I just love making my vanilla extract and have been doing so for years. My preference is using brandy which adds to the coloring of the vanilla extract.
Seems at least once a year I have a bottle brewing, just never know when I’ll be running out. I just let it sit in a dark area, mix it up now & then. There have been times that it sat for many months and it improves w/age…. just love it.
Mary
I get a 32oz bottle at the Chef’s catalog store here in Colorado Springs for 35 bucks…lasts me a couple of years
Katrina
You’re my hero, Joy! Thank you so much for this.
lucylang
Nice! This is the type of project I plan to do but never get around to. Although I do like the sound of the Mexican vanilla bean. We’ll see. Great info Joy!
Shelly
Love it! It makes so much sense to make your own with the cost of it at the stores…thanks for the inspiration!
MariaT
ooh, I’m going to try that today! I have rum and tahiti vanilla beans on hand.
GS
I had no idea it was that simple to make vanilla extract. I could share with my friend! Thank-you Joy!
Randi Lynne
What a great tip! I can’t wait to try this!
Culinary Wannabe
So cool!! When we went to Tahiti I was so excited to buy some vanilla beans on the cheap, but low and behold they were more expensive there than they are here! I’m so excited about making this, I don’t know how I’ll wait 2 months!
katie
Thanks Joy!
This would be a seriously good idea to get moving on for Christmas gifts! Thanks for the great tips!
Tigli
I would have never thought to make my own extract… I have thought about doing vanilla sugar, after watching Inta Gartner scold me for not making my own… but never thought about the extract side of things… and what a great idea for gifts! I love it!!
Jess
I buy my vanilla beans from this ebay seller:
http://stores.shop.ebay.com/Vanilla-Products-USA
They are inexpensive, but really good vanilla beans! i use them to make vanilla sugar, vanilla extract and I substitute the seeds for extract in most of my baking!
I just started a new back of extract about 3 weeks ago. :)
Katie
This looks so great.I really want to make some for Christmas presents! Thanks so much!
Evan
A.W.E.S.O.M.E.
Courtney (The Hungry Yogini)
Great recipe! I can’t wait to try this. It makes such a difference when all of your ingredients, even the basics, are from scratch.
Cecilia
So….I have something to confess…..I think I just fell in love with you a little more, my dear :)
One of my favorite things in this world is vanilla!
I’m a sucker for those tiny bottles of vanilla that cost OVER $10! Recently, I’ve bought the Tahitian and Mexican vanilla’s from the Nielsen-Massey Vanillas company…and it’s kinda fun to smell them one after the other – such different smells!! I love your brief description of the different types :)
I actually read this book not too long ago by Patricia Rain, Vanilla: The Cultural History of the World’s Favorite Flavor and Fragrance. I thought it was a quite interesting look at vanilla’s history and how it became such a phenom.
I’m so excited to try this!
Adrienne
I’ve got some in my cupboard that I started about 6 weeks ago – it still smells like vodka but mostly of vanilla, now. I can’t wait to use it!
Wonk
Oh, and by the way – I didn’t split my beans, just popped them in to soak whole.
Once I was done I just dried them out and used for other things.
Kati
I’ve been wanting to try this, thanks for the how to instructions, I will def. put this project on my summer to do list! Thanks for the great easy info!
http://www.katiskupcakes.com
Wonk
I make my own Vanilla Extract – it’s all sorts of awesome.
Like Maria I just make it straight in the Vodka bottle – It always makes me giggle when I take my Ingredients photo for a blog entry and there’s a cheap 70cl bottle of vodka next to the flour ;)
I made mine around 3 years ago now and will probably need to make some more before Christmas – I never dreamed that I’d use it up that fast but it’s so great I also use some of it to soak the fruit for my Christmas cakes too.
Thinking back I think I used 4-5 pods and left for at least 3+ months – I didn’t really time it, I just waited till it turned that delicious caramel brown colour. I also added a teaspoon or 2 of sugar just to help bring out the flavour.
Warning: you will become hopelessly addicted to unscrewing the cap and sniffing!
Coleen
This is SO very cool. I can’t wait to try it. I would really like to hear your answer to Larissa’s question (how long is the shelf life of this vanilla).
maria
I make my vanilla in a vodka bottle. I think I used far more beans, though. I just kept chucking beans in there whenever I had an extra. I know you can use it after 2 months, but I found the flavor didn’t really fully ripen/develop in mine for 4-6 months. (It became so much more mellow.)
Just a question — I would have thought that the strong taste of bourbon would overpower the delicate flavor of a tahitian bean. Is this not true? (How fun, playing with flavor combinations this way!)
Cate
This is one of those projects that is on my very lenghty list of Things I Want To Make. Have you made any other extracts?
Rina
Awesome post! Thank you! I am still absolutely in love with the Mexican vanilla my aunt and uncle bring back for me every year…but what a great gift idea!!
Larissa
Thanks for this recipe…I love homemade things like this. Question: do you know how long the vanilla extract can be stored? Does it have a long shelf life like store-bought extracts?