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 free 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
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 the 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. If printing on the labels, make sure your printer is set to 100% and not “fit to page” which make shrink or stretch labels.
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 kitchen towel 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.
How to Store Vanilla Extract
Keep your homemade vanilla extract in a cool dry place. Heat and light can cause it to turn cloudy.
If it does turn cloudy, murky, or muddy-looking, do the smell test and if it still smells good, it should be fine to use. Using 80 proof vodka, it is highly unlikely there is bacterial growth.
Sometimes the type of beans you get can leach pulp into the alcohol and you can strain out sediment if desired.
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
Natasha Kravchuk
Vanilla Cake Recipe (VIDEO) 
Easy Caramel Sauce Recipe 
Soft Gingerbread Cookies (Pryaniki) 
Cupcake Frosting Recipe (VIDEO) 
Perfect Vanilla Cupcake Recipe (VIDEO) 
Classic Lemon Bars Recipe (VIDEO) 
Hi! I'm Natasha Kravchuk. Here you'll find delicious, trusted recipes with easy step-by-step photos and videos. 
Hi, I have a question. When do you refill the bottle? I consumed half, can I refill it already?
Hi Cecilia, there really is no limit to how often but it will be lighter in color with every refill. What I do is refill it as I use it – refill as you go so you don’t have to wait to use it.
Hi Natsha! Another gem of yours! Each and every recipe from your blog is fabulous. I am unable to get the label for the vanilla to print. What am I doing wrong? P.S. making the chicken lasagna this weekend,can;t wait! Terri
Thanks for your great feedback, Terry. Are you using this Free label that I created? It works well on my end, you can try saving it first then print it if that helps.
I can’t get the free label link to open either. When I click on it nothing happens so there is no way to save it and then try it. I’m on a Mac if that makes a difference. The other links still work
Hello Kathy, I also tried it just now using my mac laptop and it worked fine. Click on this FREE Label and click save as PDF first in your device. From there you can open the PDF file and then print it. I hope that helps.
Hey Natasha! I love following you! I had a question about the vanilla extract… I thought I read somewhere that it should go in brown bottles but yours shows clear bottles. Is there a difference or does it matter? Thanks so much! Liz
Hi Liz, 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. We make sure to keep the bottles in a cool dark place.
I’ve been following Natasha for a long time now.
Her videos are always entertaining and the receipes always great.
Thanks Natasha for sharing!
Thank you for that wonderful compliment Kate!
Hi natasha, I love your recipes they are amazing and delicious I just want to ask you one thing about the vanilla extract that what can we use instead of vodka?thanks
Hi Aneela, vanilla extract is typically made with vodka, but you can substitute with bourbon, rum or brandy.
Hi Natasha I love your recipes. I tried a few of them and they delicious. How can I make this vanilla extract alcohol free? Thanks.
Hi Zaleena, I’ve heard people using glycerine to make it alcohol-free but don’t have any personal experience with that.
This is a great idea!!! Where is a good place to get the vanilla beans??
Hello Tiffany, you can check the spice or baking aisle of the grocery. They could be on the same spot as the herbs and spices.
Just made six 4oz bottles. can’t wait until they are ready. How long will the vanilla beans generally last?. I know you said you refill as you use it but when will i need to buy new beans? I am guessing if it doesn’t turn in color.
Hi Tim, great question! Vanilla extract can last for years and doesn’t really have an expiration date that I am aware of. The expiration date I would watch is the same as the experimentation date for the alcohol that you use.
Hi, just made these and I’m so excited to gift them!
I went to Office Depot and tried to get them printed, however they don’t carry that label printer. Any way you can make labels that are sized to Avery 22807?
Hi Erika, unfortunately, there isn’t a way to make multiple sizes with the format we have. I have a link to the one we used in the post above.
We just started our first batch and I’m so excited can’t wait for Christmas. We made some with vodka and some scotch.
Sounds fun and awesome! Please don’t forget to share with us how it goes once it’s ready.
I can’t wait to do this for Christmas gifts.
Hello Donna, this is perfect for giveaways! I hope you love this recipe.
Hi, What is the purpose of a clear bottle if you are to store it in a cool/dark place? Do you think an amber glass would be better? Or do you really want to see it while it marinates? Thank you. I ask since most extracts are sold in dark amber bottles.
Hi Marigold, 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.
Where did you buy the towels and star cookie cutters at?
Hi Sheri. You can see the kitchen tools that I use here in my Amazon affiliate shop.
The towels and ornament are not listed on your amazon page
I don’t see them on your amazon page!
Hi Sheri, we linked our favorite tools in the shop but these items specifically we got a while back. I want to say it was either Hobby Lobby or World Market where I bought the cookie cutter but Amazon has great finds also.
Thank you! Love your recipes and the amazon link! Making your meatballs and doing vanilla for gifts!
That’s so great! Thank you for that wonderful review!
Hello Natasha,
I have made my first batch and going to print the labels however what size are the round labels? 2 inch is standard but they look maybe 2 1/2.
Hi Nancy, The label sheet was 8 1/2 by 11 and I cut out the circles. I wasn’t able to find pre-cut circles. Click here for the exact 2.5″ labels that we used.
Is there a substitute that I could use instead of vodka?
Hi Karen, I’ve heard people using glycerine to make it alcohol-free but don’t have any personal experience with that.
If you are gifting these and they don’t refill with vodka (might have some non-drinking people that may not have vodka on hand and would probably not buy any either), would you suggest removing the beans once they are not completely immersed in the vodka after use?
Where do you store the bottles while they turn into vanilla?
Hi Alissa, we like to store it in a cool, dark place like a pantry. I recommend reading through the tips in the receipt and our reader comments for more on that.
Thank you so much!!!
Hi Natasha,
I am so excited about trying this out (because store-bought vanilla is so expensive and you get such a little bit!), and giving the little bottles as gifts this Christmas!! What a unique gift idea! Question: how long can you keep adding vodka to keep making more? I guess until you notice it doesn’t turn brown anymore?
Hi Debbie, that is correct. I usually add more as I go (top it off) so I don’t have to wait to use it again.
I just started a batch but was wondering where best to store for the two months?
Hi Alissa, we like to store it in a cool, dark place like a pantry. I recommend reading through the tips in the receipt and our reader comments for more on that.
I am about to make a few batches. The bottles I have are a little larger and filling to 4 oz looks odd. I can do 4.5 oz. Do you think I need to increase vanilla bean quantity to just “resting” time??
Hi Tracy, I would increase the vanilla beans or it would take a long time to get to the right color. It never hurts to add more beans.
Bonjour,
Est ce qu’on peut avoir les ingrédients en gramme et non pas en tasse SVP ?
Hi Manel, thanks for your suggestion. In the meantime, you can use this Ingredient Weight Chart for help.
Hi Natasha
I made the vanilla extract July 1, 2020 and followed the instructions although I used Madagascar Grade A vanilla beans ordered through Amazon. I just tried it and it just tastes like vodka not vanilla. I ordered another Madagascar Vanilla Beans Whole Grade A Vanilla Pods for Vanilla Extract and plan on adding to original bottles of vanilla. I did everything according to instructions. Help!
I have made so many of your recipes and am very pleased with how they turned out. You are my favorite. I have books of your recipes.
Hi Phyllis, make sure to split the beans when bottling and double check the proportions. More beans will make the vanilla more concentrated and darken faster.
Hi
Where do you buy vanilla beans to make the extract and where did you get the bottles?
Thanks, love your recipes!
I’m a devoted follower!
Hi Elizabeth! We have both linked in the recipe post.I hope you love this recipe!
Hi Natasha,
I’d love to try this! Do you think it would work if I used the 4 vanilla beans I have in one medium sized glass jar with a metal lid? Amazon is out of the bottles you used
Thanks!
Without knowing the size of your bottle, it’s difficult to say. I would scale the recipe up using the serving adjustment bar in the recipe card. If you click on the number of servings, you can adjust the ingredients up to see what the proportions should be.
Hi Natasha,
Where did you purchase the dish area towels? Those are nice! Also, you should do a video on how to make this recipe. Love all your recipes!
I meant to say dish/tea towels.
Thanks for your suggestion, Angela. You can see the kitchen tools that I use here in our Amazon Page. That should be there too if I am not mistaken.
Thank you for this recipe and the free, beautiful labels! I’m experimenting by making your recipe and by making an instant pot recipe. Taste testing is so much fun. Thanks again!
You’re welcome! I’m happy you enjoyed both!
Question for you! Have you ever made the vanilla with a 1.75 liter bottle of vodka or anything? I have 25 beans and wonder if I should make it with more beans to the one bottle or if I should split them into smaller bottles?
Hi Brook, I haven’t tried putting beans into the entire bottle, but if you highlight over the servings, you can adjust the recipe to the amount of vodka you have to get the proportions.
I printed out the labels on clear label paper and attached it to the bottle. When I poured the vodka into the bottle a little spilled out and it completely evaporated the ink on the label. Is there a way to prevent this from happening?
That has not happened to me before, maybe the ink was not dry yet?
No. I changed the paper from clear to white.
I filled the bottles and wiped them down well, then I applied the label.
Maybe fill the bottle first then put the label on.
Hi, I just made these the other day and now I’m second guessing myself, I did the 3 split halves in 4 oz. bottles. I keep thinking about your statement “Place a total of 1 1/2 whole beans in each jar (or 3 split halves)” would it have been better if I put 1 1/2 whole bean in the jar?
Hi Kathy, it’s best to split the beans to expose the centers. It will take much longer to get it’s color if the beans aren’t split. 1 1/2 whole beans split in half would be 3 split halves. I hope that makes sense.
Ok Natasha, I belive I did misunderstand. I took a bean and cut it in half and then each half was split opened which gives you 4 pieces now. So I thought when you said 3 split halves I took that to mean 3 of those 4 pieces went in each jar. LOL, I better go and add more right away. I’m so silly. Thanks for answering me, and I’m so glad I asked. ^_^
Hi,
Are these labels able to be edited? I was hoping to use bourbon instead of vodka.
Thanks
Hi Nadine, I can’t wait for you to give this a try! Unfortunately, there’s no way to edit the label since it is a static image that we saved. However, you can go directly to the Avery label website and custom make a label. Their website is pretty user-friendly and I hope that helps!
I followed the instructions perfectly, however at the bottom of my extract bottle, there seems to be a few “fuzzy” objects that look strangely like worms. Did I get a bad batch of Vanilla bean?
Hi Jim, I haven’t had that experience. Using the correct proof of vodka would inhibit any kind of growth, but make sure to use very clean bottles for the process. Some people have reported a cloudy extract but from what I understand that is typically due to the vanilla bean (age, quality, sourcing). Also, here is what one of our readers wrote, however, I haven’t done my own research to know if this is accurate: “I did a little research and found out that this is normal and that the white fuzzy stuff that’s growing around the pods is vanillin seeping out, it’s mentioned that this is a sign of good quality beans, I hope that this information is correct, as it’s the only website that had any real answers about this. I’m so greatful that I don’t need to throw my batch away. Thank you so much for your quick response!” I hope that helps
Hi…once the vanilla is ready – how do you maintain it? Once I start using it, how do I know when to add more vanilla bean or vodka? Thanks!
Hi Deb, you would leave the beans in there the entire time. There is no need to remove them. You can actually add more vodka as you use the bottle so you don’t run out. I haven’t tried any others to recommend them.
I’ve found that bourbon works very well also.
Thank you so much for sharing that with me Sylvia!
Hi Natasha, I love all your recipes , I was wondering in the recipe of vanilla extract what other things I can use instead of vodka? Thanks
Hi Jerriya, I don’t know of any other substitute that could work with this recipe.
I want to try this, where is the best place to buy Vanilla Bean? Thank you!
Hi Laura, we buy our vanilla beans on Amazon. Several of our readers have also tried the ones Costco sells.
Hi Natasha. I love love your recipes and have made quite a few! Can a combination of both tahitian and madagascar vanilla beans be used when making vanilla extract? Or is it best to stick to just one?
Hi Patricia, I haven’t tried mixing them so I can’t say for sure but I don’t see why not.
I swirled the boiling water inside my bottles and poured it out. Do I have to wait until the bottles are completely dry before I add the beans and vodka? Thank you! Great recipes!
Hi Cynthia, as long as you pour out all of the water, it’s ok if there is still a little bit of moisture in the bottle.
Hi Natasha,
I ordered 20 Bourbon Madagascar Vanilla beans grade A. I ordered 8 oz bottles on Amazon and pretty labels on Zazzle. How many beans per bottle do you suggest? Thank you
Hi Jessica, I would still do the same amount as in the recipe above.
Hi Natasha! Loved this recipe so much! When I was preparing the batter, I forgot one of the most important ingredients which was vanilla extract! I tried using maple syrup as a substitute and surprisingly, it still turned out great!
Wow so great to hear that, Dan, and thank you for sharing that info with us. That is so useful!
Do you have a video of this recipe?
Hi Jane, we do not at this time but thank you for that suggestion!
Hi! I made this about 3 months ago using a Grade B Vsnilla beans and kettle one vodka. The color doesn’t look very dark. Also pieces of the bean are settled on the bottom of the bottle. Is all this normal?
Hi Mary, it could be the type of beans and how firm they are. Also, Grade B are harder to slit down the middle and don’t soften or release color as easily. Settling at the bottom is normal.
My husband and I just bottled (12) 4 oz. bottles last night. They were put back in the box and in the basement to “brew” until Christmas. Labels are ordered. For reasons I can’t recall right now, I used grade B Tahitian Beans but I did use Tito’s vodka and since we have leftover, we can drink it…lol.
Those are going to be the best gifts!!
Hi Natasha, I do love all your videos and my daughter loves watching you on the TV all the time, Thank you for being Awesome.
One question about the Vanilla extract. Is there is a substitute for alcohol if someone cant have alcohol?
Thanks.
Hi Selim, I don’t know of anything else that works as well.
Hi Natasha, first – i’d like to say I enjoy ALL of your videos; especially the ones with your special guests! I can’t wait to make this vanilla extract. I know that someone asked you about the size of the Avery label and you said it was mentioned above but I am not seeing it… I apologize but can you please tell me what size label I should buy to use your beautiful labels? Thanks so much for sharing!
Hi Annie, The label sheet was 8 1/2 by 11 and I cut out the circles. I wasn’t able to find pre-cut circles. Click here for the exact 2.5″ labels that we used.
I have heard/seen that vanilla extract can be de-canned. By pouring from big jars to smaller jars. Is there any affects? Thank you for your prompt response.
Hi BJ, I always have a large jar of vanilla that a refill my smaller jars with.
Your recipe calls for the following:
18-20 vanilla beans I used Grade B Bourbon
48 oz plain vodka* 80 proof works great
Which is one or the other optional.
Hi Paul, I used 80 proof of vodka and Grade B vanilla beans. Both are necessary to make vanilla. I’m not sure I understand your question.
I think the word bourbon is throwing him. It’s a regional name for where the beans come from. The vodka is the only alcohol.
Hi
How long can these vanilla extract be kept?
Jeya
Singapore
Hi Jeya, from what I’ve read, the extract never really expires – it just lasts and lasts
I made the vanilla yesterday. What about all the sediment in the bottom of the bottle? Is it just left there and ends up in whatever you’re baking or do you strain it out
Hi Mary, most likely what you are seeing are seeds from inside the pods and there is no need to strain before using.
Natasha please help!!
I cut the beans which I just bought from Costco, when I added them to the vodka in sterilized jar, one of the jars (I suspect one of the beans ) has a weird greyish fuzzy looking flaky stuff that is floating all over. Is this mold?? It’s not furry in the traditional sense, looks more like blanket fuzzies . I’ve heard someone complain about this on amazon and he posted a pic of my exact issue but alas no one replied to him.
Did I just waste a pint of vodka and several vanilla beans
Hi Tara, I haven’t had that happen and I suspect it’s from the beans – maybe there is some kind of coating on them or it may be the variety.
When making your homemade vanilla do you remove the vanilla beans after the two months it takes to create the vanilla? Or do you leave the vanilla beans in the bottle for the entire time it takes to use up all the vanilla in the bottle? Also, the link you provided to purchase the bottles says the item is unavailable. Can you provide a different link for another bottle you would suggest?
Hi Sheryl, you would leave the beans in there the entire time. There is no need to remove them. You can actually add more vodka as you use the bottle so you don’t run out. I haven’t tried any others to recommend them.
I’ve made your vanilla extract and it was fantastic! I’ve also experimented with orange, lemon and clementine peel to make other flavours of extract. Mint leaves are my next experiment. Love your videos and your recipes, I make them often and enjoyed by everyone in my family. Thank you!
I’m so happy you enjoyed that. Thank you for sharing that with us!
Hi Natasha, I just love the snowflake cookie cutter. Can you please let me know we you bought it? Thank you, Alexandra
Hi Alexandra, it has been a while. I want to say it was either Hobby Lobby or World Market.
Where did you purchase the 12 oz bottles with the black lids? Love them!
Hi Emily, we have them listed in the recipe. You can find them here.
Hi Natasha! I have recently started following you when a friend said that I would love it…and I do!! (Especially since I am 100% Polish-so I LOVE all the eastern European dishes!)
I have made this vanilla extract recipe and it’s about a week out from being ready, however I think that the extract still looks pretty light. I was planning to leave it alone for a couple more weeks or do you think I should add more vanilla beans? (I followed you recipe exactly.) Also, I have pretty many pieces of the seeds and beans in the bottle…have you ever strained it before use? Thanks so much!
Hi Maria, straining is not necessary before use. Did you make sure to cut the beans down the center to split them? That helps with color and also some beans or grades may take longer. You could add more beans if desired which will help it achieve a deeper color faster.
I am so excited to make this recipe but chose to use 8 oz. bottles vs. 4 oz. I was wondering, since you have this gorgeous label you made could you make an adjustment to reference 8 oz vs the 4 oz you show? That would be so wonderful if you could. Please let me know. Want to get these started for Christmas presents. Thank you!!
I can’t wait for you to give this a try! Unfortunately, there’s no way to edit the label since it is a static image that we saved. However, you can go directly to the Avery label website and custom make a label. Their website is pretty user-friendly and I hope that helps!
can you tell me what size or Avery number of the label you use?
Thank you
Hi Ching, I have it linked in the recipe above.
It’s good to know how to make vanilla.
I’m so glad that was helpful! Thank you for that great review!
Hi Natasha, I’m attempting to make this vanilla extract and on the same day I noticed a white fuzz growing on the already submerged vanilla pods..is this normal? Is it supposed to break down as it infuses? Thank you for your time.
Hi Barbara, I haven’t had that experience. Using the correct proof of vodka would inhibit any kind of growth, but make sure to use very clean bottles for the process. Some people have reported a cloudy extract but from what I understand that is typically due to the vanilla bean (age, quality, sourcing).
Hey, I did a little research and found out that this is normal and that the white fuzzy stuff that’s growing around the pods is vanillin seeping out, it’s mentioned that this is a sign of good quality beans, I hope that this information is correct, as it’s the only website that had any real answers about this. I’m so greatful that I don’t need to throw my batch away. Thank you so much for your quick response!
Thank you for doing the research. I was getting concerned
When/how do you remove the beans?
Hi Kristel, you would leave the beans in there the entire time. There is no need to remove them. You can actually add more vodka as you use the bottle so you don’t run out.
What are the best kind if vanilla beans to use? Where is a good place to buy them? Thank you. Julie S.
Hi Julie, the ones I buy are from Amazon and I linked to the best ones I have found in the post above.
How many times can you refill the bottle?
Hi, there really is no limit but it will be lighter in color with every refill. What I do is refill it as I use is – refill as you go so you don’t have to wait to use it.
I make my vanilla bean extract in the instant pot in 1 hour . Ready to use that same day. 👍🏽
Woah! That is wild! Can you share how you do it?
Hi Esther, I would love to know how you made them ready to use in 1hour!!! lol
Can I just add the vanilla beans to the bottle of volka
Hi MaryEllen, I suppose you could. I don’t see why not, just check the proportions of beans to vodka to make sure it will be concentrated enough.
what company did you purchase the vanilla beans from.
I am so looking forward to making this
Hi MaruEllen, I purchased my vanilla beans on Amazon.
You can also purchase them from Costco as they sell them.
Thank you!
You’re welcome, Sylvia!
Thank you for the information! At some point will I have to add fresh vanilla beans? Thank you.
Hi Sylvia, I usually add another bean when I refill to keep the color dark.
When I refill my vanilla with vodka, it’s usually after it’s about 1/3 down. How long should it sit before I can use it again? Also, how many times can I refill it before I have to add a new bean(s)? Thank you!
Hi Sylvia, it will have flavor right away and is useable right away if you are refilling it gradually as you use it but the longer you let it sit, the more depth of flavor it will have.
I am making vanilla extract from bourbon as well as vodka. Do you have label template for that?
Hi Kay, unfortunately I don’t have a way to customize the labels – would be a nice feature though! I hope you love the extract!
Kay – were you able to find anything close that resembles Natasha’s labels? They are SO cute and I can’t find something similiar – yet. 🙂 Natash – I love your post and I’m going to get started!!!
I just put the final touches on my bottles, as they are all Christmas gifts. They are wrapped in the tea towels, but used silver measuring spoons instead of cookie cutters. They look amazing!!!
That sounds lovely! Our favorite gift to give!
Sounds great! Wish we could see pics! Measuring spoon is excellent idea!
I made this recipe last year and absolutely loved it – such a cute gift idea. Great homemade vanilla extract too! I am making another batch for Christmas gifts, but am having trouble downloading the label sheet. Any chance you can help?
Hi Kara, I’m not sure why, but the link glitched. Here is the free downloadable label sheet for the vanilla extract.
Thank you! Love your labels – so adorable. This new link works.
I’m so glad to hear you’ve liked them! Thank you for that wonderful review!
Hi! Receiving an error with the pdf when downloading the label template. Can you please fix the link? Thanks so much!
Hi Mattina, Here is the updated link. I’m not sure why it stopped working but it’s corrected now. I hope you enjoy the vanilla extract and the process of making it!
Hi Natasha,
Thank you for the great recipe. We just bottled our first batch of HVE. I just tried to download the template on two different devices and they both stated that the file was corrupt and we could not download (one download on mobile and one on PC). How can I get the PDF?
Hi Jaon, thank you for letting me know. The link has been fixed. Here are the free vanilla extract labels.
Hi! I am putting this into 2 oz bottles in order to ship more easily to family. Can you please help me downsize the labels? They are too big for the bottles. Thank you so much!!
Hi Andrea, I’m not able to do that without completely re-designing the label sheet. Will these labels still work just wrapped further around the bottle?
Print on card stock, punch a hole in the label, then tie to the bottle.
Hello Natasha – this is only my 10+ recipe of yours I’ve tried, so LOVE your site! My vanilla has been “brewing“ for a month now and not anywhere near amber. I used a slightly less expensive Vodka than Smirnoff AND I kept the bottles in the box they came in. Would either of those 2 factors hv anything to do w/the light color? (Hv since our the open box in a sunny room)
Hi Olivia, if you store it in a dark place or a pantry out of direct light that a clear glass would work fine. Light exposure may cause that.
Hi Natasha
Could you please share what size of round sticky labels you use!
Thank you
Hi Annie, The label sheet was 8 1/2 by 11 and I cut out the circles. I wasn’t able to find pre-cut circles.
hi asha from india can we use vanilla flavored vodka for same
Hi, I honestly haven’t tried that product so I’m not sure.
My beans after 4 weeks have started to form a fluffy coating on them. I am also noticing blots of beans settling on the bottom. Is this normal? I shake the extract a few times a week.
Hi Bobbi, I’m not sure what you mean by a fluffy coating? I haven’t seen that before. Did you use the same proof of vodka that I have listed in the post? Also, sediment at the bottom is normal as the vanilla bean seeds will settle at the bottom.
What kind of label paper do you used
Hi Perry, 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. Click here for the exact 2.5″ labels that we used.
I have made this recipe for gift-giving this year, using all the links you shared. Everything is perfect, but I find I need another pair of hands for wrapping my bottles! Not having any available, Once I get the towel wrapped around the bottle, I use tape to secure the sides before I tie the twine. Also, the towels I chose depicted the stripe going down the middle, but when I opened it up to fold as directed, it just runs down the side. Will be more selective with my choice next time! Love your recipes and videos! Keep them coming!
Thank you for sharing that feedback with us Andrea.
Thank you for this recipe Natasha! I can’t wait to try it!
Can you please explain a little about how to refill the bottle? Do you refill after each use? Or do you use up the whole bottle of vanilla and then refill and wait another 2 months to use?
Hi Lyuba, it is best to refill it as you use it. You don’t have to refill after each use – if you use it quite a bit, then maybe weekly or monthly or every 2 months if you use it less often. Usually, when 1/4 is gone, I’ll refill it.
Thank you for making this so easy for gift giving! I have a dozen jars of extract distilling right now for Christmas gifts and am copying everything you have done. What a time saver!
Isn’t it the perfect gift! Thank you for sharing that great feedback with us!
My vanilla extract stills smells like more like alcohol than vanilla. In July, I bottled 24 (with 8 ounce bottles and 6 beans) them and have shaken them almost weekly. I used bourbon for some and vodka for others. These are to be Christmas gifts. Any suggestions?
Thank you, Ann
Hi Ann, that is pretty normal with homemade vanilla extract and homemade will taste even better! Did you make sure to split the beans? You should have achieved some coloring by now.
what size are the avery labels you use to put on the bottles?
Hi JoAnne, click here for the exact 2.5″ labels that we used.
Hi! I love this idea and recipe. I’m having trouble lining up the labels on the label sheet. Are you able to send it to me another way or do you have a trick for it to line up?
Thanks!
Meredith
Hi Meredith, are you using the same brand of labels? Make sure when printing that you are printing at 100% on your printer settings without any “shrink to fit” or scale to page settings activated. Sometimes printer settings will have that set automatically but it will throw off the scale and won’t line up with labels. I hope that helps to troubleshoot.
I made this mistake until I went back and read about the 100%. They were printing initially, but were slightly off. The adjustment to 100% solved the problem beautifully.
Love this recipe, the detailed instructions and the free labels! Thank you for the links to the beans and jars you used. I am making them for my daughters for Christmas gifts!
You’re welcome, Linda! This is one of our favorite gifts to give.
Natasha you’re the best. I have to be the worlds worst cook and your recipes make me look good. I made your lasagna rolls ups for dinner. My husband raved about them and ate several. He said they were the best I had ever made, and I have to agree. Thanks a million. Your recipes are easy and very tasty.
Looks like you’re going to have to make them over and over again! That’s so great!
I am in love with this site!!!!!!!!
Thank you for stopping by!
I stumbled upon this awesome gift idea while making your easy caramel recipe!
Thank you for having everything ready; you couldn’t have done a better job explaining and having links to make these a breeze! Thank you a thousand times!!!!!!!!
I’m so glad you found that useful. Thank you for the wonderful review and I hope you also loved the caramel!