Vanilla Extract Recipe
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Learning how to make vanilla extract is the easiest thing ever. It requires only 2 ingredients and makes all of your baked goods taste and smell incredible. Homemade vanilla extract will be your secret ingredient for baking! Once you make your own homemade vanilla extract, there’s just no going back to the store-bought version. As a bonus, you can refill real vanilla extract with more vodka as it runs out so it’s the gift that keeps on giving.
These make for darling and thoughtful DIY Christmas gifts (see tutorial below). My cousin’s wife, Alla, shared this awesome idea with me for gifting homemade vanilla extract and now all my sisters and friends know exactly what they’re getting for Christmas! lol.
I included links to all of the tools and resources that I used to make these from the sweet little glass bottles on Amazon to the labels I designed which you can print at home. There’s also a full visual tutorial on wrapping these in kitchen towels. I really enjoyed making these and I will enjoy giving them away even more!
Vanilla Extract Ingredients (makes 12 (4oz) jars):
18-20 vanilla beans (I used the two Grade B Bourbon packets from this set, or any of these beans would work as well.
48 oz plain vodka* (80 proof works great)
It’s easy to scale this recipe up or down, the proportions are 3 whole vanilla beans per 1 cup (8 oz) vodka, or 1 1/2 vanilla beans per 1/2 cup (4 oz) vodka.
*It’s not necessary to get the most expensive brand of vodka; something middle of the road like Smirnoff triple distilled 80 proof will work just fine. I found this at the liquor store and paid $25 for a giant jug. I’ll be refilling my vanilla a long time :). My cousin used the Vodka sold at Costco (Washington Costco’s carry liquor, but Idaho’s don’t).
Tools you’ll need for Homemade Vanilla Extract:
Small funnel or measuring cup with pouring lip
12 (4oz) clear bottles with lids (avoid cork lids – alcohol evaporates through cork)
Labels (click here to save and print the labels I designed FREE!)
Kitchen scissors or sharp knife
How to Make Vanilla Extract:
1. Wash and sanitize bottles and lids. I washed with mild soapy water, rinsed then swirled with boiling hot water to sanitize them.
2. Cut beans in half then Split beans. I found this is easiest with kitchen scissors. Cutting them about halfway down the stem. If the beans are too dry to split, cut them into 1″ pieces. Place a total of 1 1/2 whole beans in each jar (or 3 split halves).
3. Use a funnel or measuring cup to pour vodka to the top of the jar. Cover tightly with lid and let them brew for 2 months, shaking occasionally.
Apply the FREE vanilla extract labels by printing them on label paper or by gluing them onto the bottles. You should give the vanilla a little shake every now and then for the next couple of months as it sits. It will turn a beautiful amber color when it’s ready to use. The instructions are right on the label so you don’t have to wait that long to gift them ;).
For Creative Gifting:
12 yards of yarn or kitchen string
12 kitchen towels for gifting, preferably tea towel style
12 small/medium cookie cutters
How to Wrap a Gift With a Kitchen Towel:
Fold a kitchentowel in half lengthwise and then in half again lengthwise. Place vanilla in the upper left corner, fold over the bottom flap, roll into a log and tie the top with a string or ribbon directly over the next of where the bottle is sitting inside the towel.
Vanilla Extract Recipe
Ingredients
Vanilla Extract Ingredients (makes 12 (4oz) jars):
- 18-20 vanilla beans I used Grade B Bourbon
- 48 oz plain vodka* 80 proof works great
Tools you'll need for Homemade Vanilla Extract:
- Small funnel or measuring cup with pouring lip
- 12 4oz clear bottles with lids (avoid cork lids)
- Labels click here to save and print the labels
- Kitchen scissors or sharp knife
Instructions
-
Wash and sanitize bottles and lids: Wash with mild soapy water, rinse, then carefully swirl with boiling hot water to sanitize them.
-
Cut beans in half then Split beans (it's easiest with kitchen scissors), cutting them about halfway down the stem. If the beans are too dry to split, cut them into 1" pieces. Place a total of 1 1/2 whole beans in each jar (or 3 split halves).
-
Use a funnel to pour vodka to the top of jar. Cover tightly with lid and let them brew for 2 months, shaking occasionally.
Recipe Notes
It's easy to scale this recipe up or down, the proportions are 3 whole vanilla beans per 1 cup (8 oz) vodka, or 1 1/2 vanilla beans per 1/2 cup (4 oz) vodka.
If you make this recipe, I’d love to see pics of your creations on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter! Hashtag them #natashaskitchen
natashaskitchen
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Hi! I'm Natasha Kravchuk. Here you'll find delicious, trusted recipes with easy step-by-step photos and videos. 
When should you discard the beans and start fresh?
Hi Ronald, you can reuse them over and over but I would replace the beans with new ones after using them 2-3 times. Hope this helps
This looks great! I’ve always wanted to make my own! Great gift idea as well! But a question… how long can I store/keep/use this after its ready to use?
Thankyou!
Hi Nancy, I keep it at room temperature in the cupboard.
Yes but how long will it keep? Fresh without spoiling..
Thankyou
Hi Nancy, great question! Vanilla extract can last for years and doesn’t really have an expiration date that I am aware of.
The expiration date is the same as the alcohol that you use. The beans are no different than the worm in taquilla.
Thank you for sharin that Jason!
I’m having trouble finding whole vanilla beans but have found some pure vanilla powder. Can the extract be made using the powder?
Hi Suzanne, unfortunately, I don’t think it can be done, or at least I haven’t seen it done before.
In stores they are hard to find or way over priced. I would look on Amazon for Madagascar bourbon vanilla beans. You can buy 25 for 70 dollars which is enough 1.5L of vanilla. I por about 4 to 8 in another Contain to use first and give room for the beans in 5he other one. This will allow the bigger one to cure longer. Don’t buy split beans. I prefer grade a over grade b because it seems to have been color and oil content. When I tested batches I used several grades, kinds, amount of beans per cup, and even alcohol types. I labeled them all so I could keep maticlous notes. I even made some mixed as Natasha suggested tahisian and Madagascar blend.
You can find plenty on Ebay.
Hi, have you ever mixed vodka and bourbon together to make vanilla extract?
Hi Maria, I haven’t tried that. Have you experimented with that?
I am about to make my homemade Vanilla. I notice that you use 3 beans per cup, but every other place says to use 5-8 per cup. Why do you use 3 over more?
By the way, I bought grade A since the price difference was 20 cents a piece and since they were longer my guess is that they were the same price per ounce.
Hi Jason, you can use more for a darker vanilla extract but these proportions are sufficient. I did a deep-dive in research before posting this in addition to testing it myself and it works very well, but it is a matter of preference. You can definitely add more if you prefer.
I just made some a month ago and it is smelling so good. After 2 months can I pour it in another bottle without the beans and pour more vodka in with the beans to make more?
Hi Deborah! you are welcome to leave them in there and simply add more vodka. It will lose color with every refill so I would suggest adding a new piece of vanilla if I were refilling from empty. I usually add more vodka as I use it – when it is 1/3 to 1/2 empty, I’ll add more vodka
Thank you so much.
Natasha, many thanks for the recipe! It is a great help for any cooking enthusiast.
Thank you so much for sharing that awesome review with me.
We have been making ours for years. We find Napoleon Brandy works better than Vodka as it adds a whole other flavour with the beans. We just add another bean to the 40 oz bottle every time we top it off (at half empty). There are beans still in there from years ago.
I’m so happy you enjoyed that. Thank you for sharing those tips with us!
J&N Moniko, What a wonderful idea!
Can I make vanilla extract with strong vodka? I have 160 proof Devil Springs vodka that I have used to dilute homeopathic meds. What do you think?
Hi Shelley, I haven’t read any recommendations for using 160 proof vodka for vanilla so I’m not sure if it would speed up the process or not. Maybe someone else has some insight into this?? (Thanks in advance!) Sorry I can’t be more helpful. If I find a good answer for you, I will report back.
Thanks for your prompt reply. Since I have the vodka, I plan to use it. I will tell you the results in a few months!
We made this recipe Dec 6th, sterilized the jars…..but some of the ends of the beans have a fuzzy goo or white spots. While the liquid is relatively clear, there does appear to be sediment at the bottom. Does this mean we shouldn’t use the extract? Should the liquid be dark brown? Thanks for your help!
Hi Sarah, I haven’t seen that before and it may just be the type of vanilla bean, but so long as the mixture is not cloudy, it should still be fine.
Can I reuse the beans? I used 10 beans, cut, in 1 fifth. When I transferred the vanilla to the 4 oz jars, after 8 weeks, I left the beans in the vodka bottle with just a smidge in the bottom.
Hi Karen, you can reuse them over and over but I would replace the beans with new ones after using them 2-3 times. Hope this helps 😀.
I have a question, I made the vanilla extract about 6 weeks ago and I noticed that the vanilla beans are turning white where they are cut is that normal? I followed the recipe to a tee.
Hi LuAnn, I haven’t seen that before and it may just be the type of vanilla bean, but so long as the mixture is not cloudy, it should still be fine.
It’s clear but now there are small white threads floating around in it.
It smells fine, taste fine,
Hi Natasha,
I am very excited to find this recipe. I was about to buy a bottle from Costco (Ontario, Canada), and it rang up at 42.99. I almost passed out and needless to say, I did not buy it. I went on a mission to find where to buy good, less expensive vanilla and found this super easy recipe. I will be on a vanilla bean hunt tomorrow. Very excited to try this. Thank you 🙂
You’re so welcome, Lori! I hope you enjoyed this recipe!
Natasha,
Thank you so much for the wonderful recipe and you terrific label making skills! I purchased the vanilla beans on Amazon they are the best vanilla beans I have ever purchased. Premium Madagascar Bourbon Gourmet Vanilla Beans Fresh & Prime Grade A Planifolia for Vanilla Extract. I make many of your great recipes. I am a fan!!!
Linita
I’m so happy you enjoyed that. Thank you for sharing that with us!
Hi, I am not sure if I did it correctly this time. last time I used Whiskey and 5 beans. This time I bought 6 and put it in a huge bottle of kirkland vodka. I left it in the bottle for 4 months. The color looks great, but it it supposed to smell more like vanilla? I have never used vodka before and vodka always reminds me of rubbing alcohol. Thank you.
Ours smells like Vanilla, I don’t get an overwhelming smell of Vodka. Homemade vanilla really is amazing in smell and taste. I hope you love it!! 🙂
I have been making homemade vanilla for years, sadly the price of vanilla beans has skyrocketed as from what I understand there is a vanilla bean shortage, but worthwhile to make, shop around for the beans…….
Hi Kathy, yes they are a bit pricey however you do end up with many more batches of fresh homemade vanilla in the end 🙂 We posted a couple of links within the recipe with beans we purchased.:)
How many times can you refill with vodka?
Hi
We tried this recipe for vanilla last year and it worked amazingly! For this years batch is it possible to just put the right amount of beans into an actual vodka bottle? Instead of using individual bottles.
Hi Dav, I’m so happy to hear that! Using 15 vanilla beans or so will make a big batch. You could do up to 5 cups of vodka for that many or just fill the vessel you have with Vodka and refill it with more Vodka as you use it. If you start with say 3 cups, it will also develop a darker and stronger flavor faster.
Hello- in response to this question, if I may give my own experience! Last year I bought a 750 mL glass bottle of Smirnoff vodka and placed 10 sliced vanilla beans directly into the bottle. It worked beautifully and lasted me almost a whole year. I never refilled bottle with more vodka as I went, I never thought I do that and wonder if it’s too late now to refill the whole bottle or start from scratch again with new beans/vodka. Thank you Natasha for this recipe!
Natasha, I have ordered beans and jars to make this. After 2 months do I take the beans out of jars and reuse them to restart more vanilla? I thought I read somewhere you could replenish vodka as you use vanilla. Want you need beans in there as well?
Hi Carol, you are welcome to leave them in there and simply add more vodka.
Can you use the vanilla bean over again and just keep adding volka
Hi Marcia, yes that is correct! 🙂 I hope you love the homemade vanilla extract.
Hi Natasha, can I use absolute Vanilla Vodka which is 70% proof to make vanilla extract? The plain vodka in South Africa is 86% proof?
Hi Karen, I honestly haven’t tried anything labeled “vanilla vodka” – I’m assuming it’s intended for use in making vanilla? If so, it might be worth experimenting.
Hi Natasha, thanks for responding – it’s a vanilla flavored vodka. If I use plain vodka, is 86% proof too strong?
Hi Karen, we used 80% just fine. I haven’t tried it with 86 but I think that should work.
How does one get white vanilla?
Hi Eleanor, white vanilla is usually referencing to vanilla powder. Some grocery stores and specialty food stores carry it or you can purchase it on Amazon (affiliate link).
Hi Natasha=Just want to share
I had clear vanilla that came from
South America. Maybe that is what
Eleanor ment about white vanilla.
Super creative and great idea!! This is a great gift for me to do for such a large family during Christmas! Please keep these great homemade gift giving ideas going! Love it!
I’m so inspired reading your review. Thank you!
This was my Christmas project this year. It was fun and the results were amazing. Thanks for the labels. My sister-in-law is a big Baker year round and she told me how expensive real vanilla extract had gotten. So needless to say she thought it was her best gift.
That’s so awesome! Thank you for sharing this with me, Jaque!
Hi Natasha,
As I add vodka to the bottle when using the vanilla, do I need to let it sit for another couple of months before using?
Hi Katie, yes that is correct. Once it has the desired color, you can use it.
This is my first time making Vanilla Extract and there are a lot of Vanilla bean seeds at the bottom of each bottle should I strain them out?
Hi Christine, you can strain it to have a prettier look if you’d like 🙂
I made up 8 bottles of the vanilla extract recipe – the question I have is when I split the beans in half the seeds inside the beans floated to the bottom of the bottle – will they eventually dissolve or just remain .
Hate to give them as gifts which is why I made them up with the seeds floating around.
Thank you
Hi Barbara, they will remain in the bottle but that is definitely a good thing – the seeds add wonderful flavor and if you do get specs of vanilla in your recipes – even better!
Me encanta esta receta del extracto de vainilla y si muy fácil todo hasta como hacer los regalos, lastima que la vi tarde, pero ya para el proximo año seran mi obsequio de Navidad.
Thank you for that wonderful review! I’m so happy you found this recipe. You can always still make these as gifts, just tell them not to open it until a later date! 😉 Enjoy!
I was considering making the 2 oz bottles. Do you think that would be too small? If not, how would you recommend cutting the beans?
I think that may still work. I nice clean cut should be fine for the beans. Just make sure they stay submerged so adding alcohol a bit more often may be required
Where do I get vanilla beans.I live in Nova Scotia.Vodka no problem
We order ours online. I recommend doing an online search for delivery.
Costco Dartmouth Crossing currently has Papua New Guinea vanilla Beans in stock 👍
I bought round labels from amazon, but when i print, they are not lined up. not sure how to fix this issue. Thanks for sharing!
Most labels have a guide and settings to choose for paper types in your printer settings.
Natasha,
What size Avery labels did you use?
Thank you,
Elaine
Hi Elaine! The label sheet was 8 1/2 by 11 and I cut out the circles. I wasn’t able to find pre-cut circles.
You can download these labels for free.
Do the vanilla beans ever go bad when in bourbon? I made vanilla extract last year and now the beans are a bit slimy. Is this normal ?
If the vanilla beans become exposed that may cause them to become slimy and ruin your extract. So make sure the beans are not exposed, you can do that by topping them off with more alcohol. I hope this helps!
I would love to try this recipe! Can you reccommend where to buy beans from? I live in Canada and to have 25 beans shipped to me to make 24 4 oz bottle works out to 273 dollars?
Hi Cheryl, not knowing what is available locally in Canada, I’m not sure. The best I can recommend is Amazon. I have linked the beans we ordered on Amazon.
Hello,
I live in Canada, but I’m close enough to the border to ship the bottles there. For the vanilla beans, my husband bought them at Costco, if you have one near by?
Hi Jessica, look on eBay for vanilla beans. Late last year one of the sellers was from Canada.
Costco in Canada has vanilla beans, usually run around $25 to $30 for 10 beans and I’ve seen the bottles at Michaels.
Natasha, I love this idea for Christmas gifts. I just placed my order on Amazon. I know my family will love this gift. My son is a recovering alcoholic. Is there something I can use in place of the vodka? I’d love to include him in this gift, but only using an alcohol replacement. Thank You!
Hi Ruth, I’ve heard people using glycerine to make it alcohol free but don’t have any personal experience with that.
Ruth, have a look on YouTube for Cupcake Jenna – she has a video on making extract with glycerine
Thank you so much for this recipe and instructions. I made these as Christmas gifts and they are lovely. I make jam as well, so I found a recipe for a dip that used jam and vanilla extract to put with them. Very excited to wrap them!!
Thank you for the wonderful review!
Your link to vanilla beans leads to beans out of stock. Can you recommend another link?
You might also try these here or these!
Can you substitute almonds instead of the vanilla bean to make almond extract or lemon to make lemon extract
I haven’t tried either one of those extracts before but those are great ideas! I imagine the process would be some what similar
Does the type or quality of the Vanilla bean make a difference?
Grade A is considered the best. I’m assuming there will be some what of a difference if you were to truly compare.
Hi Natasha! I was wondering how good is this in comparison with say a store bought one? Like Costco’s. And I bought 15 vanilla beans how do you think I should start my extraction process? Like much vodka for example? Thank you!
Hi Tina! 15 vanilla beans will make a big batch. You could do up to 5 cups of vodka for that many or just fill the vessel you have with Vodka and refill it with more Vodka as you use it. If you start with say 3 cups, it will also develop a darker and stronger flavor faster.
hello! I am kind of experimenting with organic ingredients. my question for you, where do you buy the beans? the places i have looked is incredibly expensive and i dont wanna buy too cheap to where it is not as good.
my other question is the brew period, i know you said approximately 2 months, but other sites like beanilla says 8 weeks. so i was wondering if 8 weeks or so would be good for your recipe?
thank you!!
Hi Shelby! We use these beans here or these work also. I have them linked in the recipe also.
8 weeks is pretty close to 2 months so I say that’s about right.
Your such a nice person Natasha!
Thank you, Mary!
Hello, I was wondering if I could make this in a big bottle, let sit for months, then put liquid only in the smaller bottles. I am wanting to do this as favors for a shower, but don’t want to actually put the beans in each bottle. Do you think it will still be good, or does the bean have to stay in the bottles? Looks beautiful!
Hi Lisa, I think it could work. I haven’t tried it in a big bottle myself, however. I’d love to know the turn out if you try that!
If you have answered this already, I apologize for the added work. What is the shelf life of the 4oz bottle? Does it vary depending on what alcohol you use?
Hi Amy, from what I’ve read, the extract never really expires – it just lasts and lasts. The only tip I have is making sure the bottle is securely closed. Alcohol will evaporate over time and that may cause a more intense vanilla flavor. I hope this helps.
The first time I made my own vanilla extract, the beans started to become slimy and yucky looking after about 6-7 years. The second batch, which I’m replacing now, lasted 6 years before I thought they looked like they needed to be replaced. I don’t know if it’s because the beans just start breaking down over time, or if it has to do with temperature fluctuations. Extract without the beans will last indefinitely, but the beans do eventually need to be replaced.
I’d like to start the brewing directly in my 4oz bottles and bought a 25 count grade B Tahitian vanilla bean pack.
Hi Karen. Thank you for sharing that with us! We would love to know how it works out
Hi Natasha! I was wondering if I bought 15 vanilla beans am I able to just put them all together in one jar and use it like that or do you advice I make separate vanilla extracts? How much vodka would I need if I just put all the vanilla beans together at once?
Thank you!!
Hi Kris! 15 vanilla beans will make a big batch. You could do up to 5 cups of vodka for that many or just fill the vessel you have with Vodka and refill it with more Vodka as you use it. If you start with say 3 cups, it will also develop a darker and stronger flavor faster.
Thank you for your input! Okay so what if I have 10-11 vanilla beans how much vodka would I use if I was still doing a big batch?
Hi Kris, I would modify it proportionally so if using half the amount of beans called for in the recipe, use half the amount of vodka.
Have you tried this with empty vanilla pods (after the beans have been scraped out and used)? Wondering if I can do that, or if they need to be whole pods with the beans inside.
I haven’t tried it with just the pods so I can’t say the result will be the same. We used full pods and the flavor was perfect!
The vodka will sterilize the bottles.
Needs greater percentage of beans to liquid. I use 5 beans to every 4 ounces.
Hi Jake, from all of my research, 5 full beans is VERY generous per 4oz but it wouldn’t hurt and would only produce a more concentrated vanilla extract. You would probably get more refills out of it with 5 beans in there.
The link to the beans on amazon are all sold out. Any other recommendations on where to order the beans from?
Thanks!!
Hi April, I would try these instead.
I am going to try this. I am ordering the vanilla beans.
How do you store the vanilla beans that have not been used yet?
Thank you
Hi Sandy, I keep them in a food saver bag, removing as much air as possible for airtight storage. Here is another helpful article on storing them if you don’t have a foodsaver.
Thank you
You’re welcome! 🙂
Hi Natasha.
I’ve just come across your recipe. I’m definitely going to try thisone and many of your other recipes, but wanted to ask you what makes it a vanilla extract and not just vanilla flavoured vodka?
Reading all of the previous comments has convinced me that it works. I just wondered what the difference might be?
Hi Paddy, when vanilla beans are not soaked long enough, it will be vanilla flavored vodka. The lengthy marinating extracts vanilla and you will end up with vanilla extract.
I like to add a splash of dark rum as well, We have been doing this for years!
Hi Natasha, I am making these for teachers appreciation month gifts in May. I clicked the link to print the labels and they are tiny?? Can you tell me how to adjust this?
thanks!
Allie
HI Allie, try downloading the file first or click the print button within the google drive application rather than File –> print. I am seeing it load on the full page of labels.
Hi, I’m a first timer and I have a question. I have the Madagascar beans. They are very dry and seem very thin. I put 12 down in my Vodka bottle last night and put it in a cool dark place to cure. Now I read that I should have split the beans. Do I need to pull them out and cut them or can I just leave it be? I plan on leaving it to cure for 6-8 months. Thanks, Karen Carver
Hi Karen, from what I have read, it is important to split the beans. I haven’t seen any advice not to split and I have done quite a bit of research on this. I would probably open and split them – it won’t harm anything to do it the next day, just use a clean surface and clean hands.
So ended up doing just that. I was surprised to see that in just 24 hrs, it was already a nice light Amber color. Split the beans and put it all back in the bottle. Safely tucked away in the cabinet once again. It was interesting to note that the beans were plumping up and pliable already. My hands smelled so wonderful. It broke my heart to wash them after 😉
Thats awesome! I’m sure it was much easier to slice them after they were plumped up 🙂
Natasha, have you ever used vanilla vodka when making your vanilla extract? Thank you Judianne
Hi Judianne, I haven’t tried that so I can’t advise on that substitution. You might google to see if anyone else has tried?
Thanks. so far I have not found anyone who has tried it. Would hate to mess up making vanilla extract due to the cost of the beans. Vanilla vodka does have a very destinct vanilla take and BTW, it makes a great vanilla coke if you like the taste of old fashion vanilla cokes. Again thanks for the reply.
You’re welcome Judianne!
I would be careful as Vanilla Vodka’s could be flavoured with artificial flavour – kind of defeats the purpose of making home-made Vanilla extract.
I just ran across your recipe for making vanilla extract. Love your labels and images! Most recipes are very similar but love finding more info in the comments. A point I’d like to make regarding refilling the bottles as you use the extract (which is what I’d like to do) is that the beans need to always be submerged in the alcohol or you can risk the beans developing fungus. But back to replenishing the vodka… does it need to sit and be shaken weekly for minimally another 8 weeks after you top it off? We go through a ton of vanilla extract! I’m desperately hoping to get a long life out of the vanilla beans. At least to make the cost more affordable
Hi Julie, if you are topping it off, you don’t have to go back in consistently to shake the bottle. You can invert it or swirl the bottle every time you use it. Also, when I refill, it’s nice to add a little more vanilla into the bottle for the color to remain that lovely dark tone. I’m so glad to hear you are enjoying our recipes. It’s great to hear from you. Thank you for sharing your tip!
Would it be possible to maybe water down the alcohol or something to have less alcohol smell/flavor? My mom and I’s favorite vanilla extract brand is only 8.25% alcohol, and most of the ones you buy in the store are 20-30% alcohol, and this is 80 proof (so 40% alcohol).
Hi Jackie, I suppose you could use a lower proof of alcohol, this is just the recommended one from all of my research so it is the one I went with.
@Jackie By FDA mandate anything labelled pure vanilla extract has to be 35% or greater alcohol content anything with less alcohol is not pure vanilla extract it’s watered down vanilla flavoring. Carefully read the label, since you said 8.25% I’m guessing you are talking about Watkins brand (or similar) ‘baking vanilla’ read the label carefully, it says “with vanilla extract” in fine print. AKA it’s watered down vanilla extract with likely other artificial flavors and what not added. A neutral alcohol imparts no alcohol flavor in the end and any alcohol will readily evaporate when used. The 40% alcohol suggested here is ideal to make pure vanilla extract. Personally, I use 180+ proof neutral spirits cut with distilled water to 80 proof aka 40% alcohol.
https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfcfr/cfrsearch.cfm?fr=169.175
LOVE these! And the labels are so perfect – simple and adorable. 🙂
I made extract this year using bourbon instead of vodka. What font did you use for the label? I’m going to see if I can swap out the word “vodka” for “bourbon”, if you don’t mind? 🙂
Thanks so much for the great tutorial! And I hope you have a very Merry Christmas! 😀
Hi Veronica, I’m so glad you like them! I used an online program to design the label and the font there was “Futura Medium” Have a Merry Christmas!!
Made these as Christmas gifts, they came out so cute, I can’t wait to give them! Thank you! Merry Christmas!
You’re welcome Lynsey! I’m so glad to hear that!
I attempted to make these for Christmas this year. I purchased brown bottles so it’s difficult to tell if the color has changed. I have noticed little pieces of the vanilla breaking up in the bottles; it’s this normal? If so wondering if they should be strained before gifting?
Hi Miscie, it is normal if there are some pieces of vanilla at the bottom of the bottle – that sediment is normal since you are working with real vanilla beans.
Thank you!
Are the labels meant to be printed on sticker paper with round 2 inch labels? The link to Amazon takes me to a bigger rectangle shaped label.
Hi Cris, we used a solid rectangular label and cut out the circles.
Hello,
So it says it can be refilled as needed, do I refill when it’s empty, or before it gets empty? Also do I then need to wait 2 month again? Thanks for the recipe, gifting these for xmas 🙂
Hi Danielle, I like to refill when it gets about halfway empty to keep the vanilla submerged. If you wait to refill until it is completely empty, you will have to wait the full time for it to become flavorful and change color.
THANK YOU!
You’re welcome Danielle!
How many times can you refill it before it looses its strength? Thank you
Hi Shrley, it will lose color with every refill so I would suggest adding a new piece of vanilla if I were refilling from empty. I usually add more vodka as I use it – when it is 1/3 to 1/2 empty, I’ll add more vodka 🙂
I LOVE this! Thanks so much! But question, how long does it last? Will it expire or go bad after a while? I love to bake, but thinking gifts for people that wouldn’t go through it as much.
Hi Karen, it will last for awhile. From what I have read, vanilla extract can last for years and doesn’t really have an expiration date that I am aware of.
Hi Natasha! Can you please make a label for 8.5 oz? I love your design but I am planning on using larger bottles. Thank you for considering 🙂
Hi Lindsay, I only have these in this size but the labels are fairly large. I think the would work for a larger jar :).
Thanks so much for the quick reply! The label says 4 fl oz on it. I was just wondering if you could make a label that says 8.5 instead. I think the size of the label looks perfect. So sorry for the confusion!
You’re welcome Lindsay, I’m happy to help!
Beautiful. Where did you get the bottles?
Hi Vanilla love ;), I purchased them on Amazon. I have links to the ones I bought in the post above 🙂
Hi Natasha,
I ended up using the proportions you suggested, but 6 beans to 2 cups of alcohol. I cut the beans in half and down the middle. My bottles are tall 16 oz bottles though, so the height of the beans only reaches half way up the liquid. Will this affect the fermentation process? Thank you!
Hi Jamie, if it doesn’t reach all the way up, that will work even better since the beans will be submerged longer in the liquid even as you are using the extract. It will work great 🙂
Made these for gifts this year and used your labels! They are perfect! Thank you for the labels & recipe!
You’re welcome Adrienne! I’m happy to hear that, Merry Christmas!
Can I use amber coloured glass bottles instead of clear?
Hi Jenn, absolutely! 🙂
What size labels do you use for your template?
Hi Jennifer, I have links to the label paper (it was a solid label from which I cut out the circles). It would work to also go to avery website and design then print on round labels from avery if you prefer. They have a great label maker free online design tool 🙂
Did you have lots of vanilla bean paste/particles floating in the vanilla? Is that ok, should I try to strain the vanilla? Thanks!
Laura, you can strain it to have a prettier look but it has something to do with vanilla beans.
HI Natasha, I love this idea and am about to bottle my vanilla, but I was wondering if I was supposed to scrape the seeds from inside the vanilla first? I just poured the vodka into my first jar and there is a lot of black vanilla bean “caviar” on the bottom of the glass that doesn’t look very nice.
Hi Lynsey, are you using a soft Grade A vanilla bean? Those would be more likely to release seeds and seeds can be scraped out and used for baking. My Grade B beans were so dry, I would have had a hard time trying to scrape out any seeds.
Love, love, love your labels . . . so cute. I wonder though, these can’t be customized . . . do you by chance have one that has bourbon instead of vodka as an ingredient??
Hi Celia, check out the avery website where you can customize and print whatever pattern you like and they already have their format lined up to match their labels so printing is easier.
How long will the beans last to make more vanilla after initial recipe? Will it be weaker vanilla second time around?
Hi Donna, it will be lighter in color. I usually add another bean when I refill to keep the color dark.
Can’t wait to try this!! What is the shelf life once the process is completed?
Hi Mary, from what I’ve read, the extract never really expires – it just lasts and lasts
In what program or photoshop did you make such beautiful labels?
Hi Sofya, I used an online program called pic monkey and then we arranged them into a single document I believe in a program called Lghtroom. The easiest way might be to go to avery.com and check out their templates.
where did you get the towel???
Hi Julie, I purchased them at Cost Plus world market and I believe they were standard tea towels.
where do you buy your vanilla beans. I would like to try your recipe. Thanks
Hi Gloria, I purchased them on Amazon (see links above). I find that to be the best pricing compared to what I was able to find locally.
Is it ok to use extra dry beans?
Hi Lynne, I have used some pretty dry beans and it just takes a little longer for the extract color to form and you might need an extra bean or half a bean in there 🙂 They are a little more difficult to split when they are extra dry and shark kitchen scissors are probably the best bet to get it done safely.
I have grade a beans, will these still work?
Hi Lynne, yes they will work. Grade A is the highest quality and most expensive which is why most people reserve them for baking and cooking but yes they will work in extract.
Hi Natasha
Thanks for the awesome recipe!
I think this is an amateur question: what is the shelf life of a bottle? Would love to note a expiry date on the bottle as well.
Hi Denuka, great question! Vanilla extract can last for years and doesn’t really have an expiration date that I am aware of.
My first batch looked great. My second batch was cloudy. I used a different brand of vanilla beans. Does this mean the extract is bad? I was going to give for Christmas gifts but afraid there is a problem with the beans.
Hi Lori, I haven’t had that happen before so I’m not 100% sure. Maybe someone else can share some insight into this question? (Thanks in advance!!) I found this article which references cloudy extract, but it seems to be more referring to vanilla that has expired or been kept too long (while other articles I’ve read state that vanilla in vodka doesn’t really expire). Sorry I can’t be more helpful.
Hi Natasha,
Is it possible to do it without alcohol? Maybe substitute with other liquid…
Thank you
Diana, I’ve heard people using glycerine to make it alcohol free but don’t have any personal experience with that.
Brilliant Idea for gifting……
Could you tell me where you found the bottles? Thanks so much.
Happy Holidays !!!
Also, Thank you for the label template.
Hi Linda, I purchased them on Amazon :). I have a link in the tutorial above to the same ones I purchased. We used light colored bottles but you choose the dark ones if there is an option. The light ones look nice and you can see the color changing.
everything on this page says “clear” bottles ?
Sorry for the confusion. I clarified my reply. I use clear bottles because it looks prettier and the light ones show the color changing, but you are welcome to use amber colored bottles.
Hi…Love this idea. Do you need to wash the bottle caps? If so, didn’t know if water would seep underneath cap and stay there? Thanks!
Hi Kait, I did rinse the bottles and caps and did not have any issues with the caps since they are either rubber or plastic underneath so water wasn’t an issue. 🙂
hi! I’m curious what size dish towels you used? Just don’t want the towels to be super bulky. I’m using 8 oz jars. Thanks!
Hi Sarah, I don’t have one on hand to measure it (they were all gifted away!) 🙂 I purchased them at Cost Plus world market and I believe they were standard tea towels.
How many times can you refill it before it starts loosing its potency?
Hi Kim, it will slowly lose it’s potency with each refill. If you want it to maintain it’s strength, you can either slowly refill it over time (this way you don’t have to wait for it to be ready for months), or add 1/2 a vanilla bean when you refill.
Hello! I am trying this now to use as Christmas gifts. A fellow recipe that I originally had seen and was going to follow used less beans. It equals out to about 2 beans per 12 ounces based on their recipe. Do you have suggestions on if using just one bean per 4oz jar would be ok? As that would be about a half bean over what my other recipe says to do. Beans are just so expensive that if one bean per will do the same thing, I’d like to stretch it further! Thanks!
Hi Daniela, I think you could make that work with 1 full bean per bottle. I use 1 1/2 beans per 4 oz bottle for the deeper color and flavor and it can be refilled more successfully when using 1 1/2 beans.
I have some 150 proof vodka. Is there any good reason to use that instead of 80 proof? might it extract faster?
Hi Nancy, I haven’t read any recommendations for using 150 proof vodka for vanilla so I’m not sure if it would speed up the process or not. Maybe someone else has some insight into this?? (Thanks in advance!) Sorry I can’t be more helpful. If I find a good answer for you, I will report back.
I have read several recipes on how to make vanilla extract and some scrape the pods out. Do I need to do that? I’m using Grade B (dry) beans.
Hi Janelle, I do not scrape the pods out so there isn’t as much sediment in the extract.
Hi!
I put a whole Vanilla pod into 90 proof miniature bottle of Ouzo one year ago & have left it. Would it still be ok to use in recipes?
Or does it go ‘off’ after that long?
Hi Evonne, vanilla extract can last for years and doesn’t really have an expiration date that I am aware of. I’m betting your vanilla is pretty marvelous at this point! 🙂
Actually many canners I know that make their own vanilla leave it at least 6 mos to brew– but more often a full year before they use or give as gifts. So, you’re fine… even better than fine! 🙂
I was wondering after you refill the bottles, do the bottles need to sit for 2 months again?
Hi Nicki, if you are refilling after they are completely empty, then yes it would need to sit for the vanilla flavor to grow stronger, but if you are just refilling say monthly as you use it, then no you would not have to wait. 🙂
Hi Natasha….have a question about the labels. How did you get yours round. Seems like the “mailing labels” you indicate on Amazon are square. I’d butcher them if I tried to cut!
Hi Susan, it is actually a single sheet of basically 1 full page label and I did cut the circles out with scissors.
What size is the tea towel and where did you purchase them? I’ve looked and cannot find them.
Hi Linda, I don’t have one on hand to measure it (they were all gifted!) 🙂 I purchased them at Cost Plus world market.
Is vodka the only alcohol that can be used to make vanilla? Do you think the vanilla people love to buy in Mexico, is made with vodka?
Hi Mary Lou, Bourbon or Rum will work. Vodka is traditionally used because it has the most neutral flavor. As far as what they make in Mexico – I have no idea! You may need to do some google searching for the answer to that question. Sorry I can’t be more helpful with that.
For those who are grain free people, Ciroc is a vodka made from grapes, unlike Smirnoff and most other vodkas. It’s a bit pricey, but worth it if you can’t/won’t do grains.
Thanks for sharing your tip with other readers Annis!
Yes, Trader Joe’s also has a reasonably priced vodka made from grapes.
Where do you get vanilla beans? This is a great Christmas gift!
Hi Teva, I found the best prices on Amazon. I have links in the post above. I hope that helps! 🙂
How many times can the bottles be refilled?
Hi Sara, I refill them continuously as they are depleted and I start fresh when the color is no longer deep in amber.
Hi Linda, any reason not to just but the beans in the vodka bottle separate later?? Thanks!
Hi Bev, it’s easier to get the beans in first so you can gauge how much vodka is needed to fill the bottles.
Any chance the labels could be made smaller to fit 2″ diameter labels? I really love yours but they are larger than my labels.
Hi Linda, I don’t have these as smaller labels but I believe it is Avery that has a great label maker online although I don’t know if you would have to completely re-design it from scratch.
How long would it be good for, or kind of exp date on it
Hi Tim, it doesn’t really have an expiration date and can last for years 🙂
Would this ever need to be refrigerated?
Hi Becky, no need to refrigerate this 🙂
I don’t want to sound daft but I have my beans, cut them in half and was able to split well. I am only placing 3 split halves in jar? I was confused as to why 1 whole and 1/2 been or 3 “split halves. is it because once I split it makes the bean stronger?
Hi Lori, It is 1 1/2 whole beans (when they are split, it’s 3 split halves). I have now clarified that in the instructions. Sorry that wasn’t clear and thank you for asking! 🙂 You can always add more to make it even stronger, say if you wanted to use 2 whole beans (i.e. 4 split halves), but I wouldn’t use less than that.
I just new someone would have asked, where did you buy the bottles. Nope, so where do you get the bottles like that?
Thanks!! Love the label by the way!!
Hi Debra, thank you! I do have a link to the bottles that I purchased from Amazon towards the top of the recipe post, but it is easy to miss. Here is the direct link. Enjoy! 🙂
Hi Natasha, I am excited to try this. One question- would this work using other liquors like Bourbon or Rum instead of Vodka? Does it need to be a specific alcohol content to work right? Thanks.
Bourbon or Rum will work. Vodka is traditionally used because it has the most neutral flavor.
This turned out so great!! (as everything else on here) Thank you for the recipe! I absolutely love the design you made for labels, and I was wondering what program did you use to make them? I’ll be making strawberry jam soon and I thought why not make my own as you did! God bless:)
Hi Kate, I put it together in an online program called picmonkey and then my husband spaced them in photoshop. I believe Avery labels company has a really good free useful tool online for designing various label sizes so you aren’t starting from scratch. I hope that helps! 🙂
Does it matter if the bottles are clear or amber? I purchased same size bottles while making essential oil mixtures and still have bottles left I’d like to use. I wasn’t sure if it mattered or not. I was thinking light expose could weaken potency of the vanilla but then again, vodka comes in clear bottles 😉
Hi Lori, Amber bottles are even better because the less light hits the vanilla, the better. I keep mine in a dark cabinet, but yes you can definitely use amber.
I made 30 bottles as a gift for each of my coworkers. They all LOVED it! One of them said that they usually hate people with talent, but not his time. 😉 Haha. Thank you for such a cute and practical gift idea! 🙂
My pleasure Olga! I am so glad everyone enjoyed it!!
I happened to find your recipe. It’s a bit too late to start but I will do this next year. Question, how long does the extract last, is there an expiration?
Hi Annette, the extract never really expires – it just lasts and lasts 🙂
I like to get my vanilla beans at Vanilla Saffron imports aka saffron.com. They have better prices than any where else online! Thanks for this cute lesson on making vanilla extract.
I am glad you enjoyed it Jeff! Thanks for sharing 🙂
Thank goodness for something quick and easy ! Love the labels, too. I got the vanilla beans today (they smell amazing), and will make it tomorrow. Thank you~~~
You are very welcome Leatrice, have a great Christmas!
How many times can the beans be re-used after the vanilla is gone?I
Michelle, you can reuse them over and over but I would replace the beans with new ones after using them 2-3 times. Hope this helps 😀.
This is such a great idea – and I love the extra touches of the labels and tea towel wrapping! Question – is there circle label paper that works with the label PDF or do they have to be cut out regardless? Also, I’ve heard it’s better to use Amber colored bottles when making vanilla extract to prevent oxidation. Not sure how much of a difference it makes if you’re storing in a dark place anyway, but just thought it was interesting.
Hi April, I haven’t found those kinds of labels and you may need to readjust the sizing if you find some circle labels that might work. I’ve heard that about vanilla as well, but they sure are prettier in the clear bottles and yes I agree, I just store them in the cupboard 🙂
I used this and created it on Avery’s online editor for 5294 circles.
Nice! Did you have to readjust anything on the PDF or did it print okay on there as is?
What size labels did you use?
The label sheet was 8 1/2 by 11 and I cut out the circles. I wasn’t able to find pre-cut circles.
can I use liguor instead of vodka? Thank you.
Most people make it with Vodka and that is all I have tested it with and the only way I make it but I have seen a few tutorials that say Rum, Brandy or Bourbon would work as well.
Such a wonderful idea. Can’t wait to try for the holidays. Your labels and your idea for gifting with the twin and towel is so unique. Thank you for the inspiration.
Merry Christmas~
Barb
Thank you Barbara!! 🙂 I hope you have a wonderful Christmas as well and I’m so happy you found inspiration here 🙂
I started mine about 2 weeks ago and I opened up the box they are in to give them a shake. There is a ton of stuff floating in them. The bottles in your pictures don’t look like there is anything floating! 🙂 Did I do something wrong??
Hi Amy, most likely the stuff floating in them is seeds from inside the vanilla bean and some beans just release more than others, even between the beans I purchased to make mine. They settle at the bottom and float around when shaken. It’s nothing to be concerned about 🙂
I landed here by accident, looking for sheet pan chicken meal. And boy, am glad I did!!
Such a cute gift idea! Much better than home made cookies, which can be devoured up and be done with!
This will last and smell amazing 🙂
Hi Avanti! Welcome to my blog! 🙂 I’m so glad you’re here! Thank you for that awesome compliment! 🙂
Wow this is such a wonderful post, Natasha! I didn’t realize how easy it is to make a homemade vanilla extract! I will definitely make this as it will save me a bunch of money from buying vanilla extract which I use a lot! This is also an adorable homemade gift for the holidays! Thank you for sharing! 😉
Thank you Sheila!! It’s so nice to be able to refill it also as you use it and I agree I love homemade gives the most! 🙂
Thank you so much for this tutorial! I have been wanting to make extract for a couple of years. With you’re help, I just placed my Amazon order and will have them made by next week! YAY!
Such cute bottles and presentation!
Thank you!
That’s awesome! I’m so glad you were inspired 🙂
What a cool idea!!
Thank you Sara :-). I had fun making them!
They get 5 stars for being so cute 😊 Can’t wait to make this! Where did u get the bottles? They look awesome !
Thank you Anna 😬, they will make a nice Christmas present for someone.
I love vanilla and this seems soo simple. I will have to add this to my must try list. I also really love the labels to.
Thank you for that nice compliment! Homemade vanilla really is amazing in smell and taste. I hope you love it!! 🙂
hi natasha do you know how to make aioli mayo sauce? i cant seem to find it in stores. lol.
Hi Lily, it’s so easy and I do have a good one with my zucchini crisps recipe.
I don’t drink at all. So when I go to the store to buy alcohol for my baking, I always get embarrassed and feel inclined to tell the cashier that I’m buying it for baking LOL I am so excited to do this. I know when I make it, it won’t last long. But would you happen to know how long it’s good for?.
lol I know exactly what you mean! I always let them know it’s for baking. Then I try to act very casual as I walk out of the store and hope no one I know has spotted me. Ha ha!! Homemade vanilla extract can last for years. As far as I know, it doesn’t really expire 🙂
I made Vanilla extract in the past for family and friends. But, have to say, I really love your labels and presentation. Much nicer than the ones I did. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you so much for the sweet compliment! 🙂
Yu are right. Perfect christmas gifts! I have nieces that love to make yummy desserts and these whould be great little gifts. By the way, they love to make your desserts! One of them made your tiramisu for Thanksgiving, and we ate it all! People where asking for the recipe! Thanks a million!
That’s so sweet! I’m so happy you all enjoyed the cake and thank you for sharing that with us! 🙂
Beautifully done!
Thank you so much! 🙂
place some vanilla sticks out of the vodka in sugar make sure the gar is closed well. you will have vanilla sugar on hand , wonderful taste…..i use this on fruit salad ect