How to Make Homemade Vanilla Extract (With Vodka or Bourbon)
There is something deeply satisfying about making your own pantry staples from scratch. Homemade vanilla extract is one of the simplest, most rewarding kitchen projects — and once you make it yourself, you may never buy store-bought again.
Learning how to make homemade vanilla extract takes just two ingredients and about five minutes of prep. After that, time does the work.
Whether you prefer vodka or bourbon, this easy DIY vanilla extract recipe creates a rich, flavorful extract perfect for baking, gifting, and everyday cooking.
Why Make Homemade Vanilla Extract?
Store-bought pure vanilla extract can be expensive — especially high-quality versions. Making your own:
- Costs less per ounce
- Uses simple, real ingredients
- Has deeper, customizable flavor
- Makes beautiful homemade gifts
- Stores for years
And the best part? It only requires vanilla beans and alcohol.
Ingredients for Homemade Vanilla Extract
To make pure vanilla extract at home, you’ll need:
- 5–6 whole vanilla beans
- 1 cup vodka or bourbon (80 proof / 40% alcohol)
- Glass bottle or jar with tight-fitting lid
That’s it used for extract.
What’s the Best Alcohol for Vanilla Extract?
Both work beautifully — it just depends on the flavor profile you want:
- Vodka → clean, classic vanilla flavor
- Bourbon → warmer, slightly caramel undertones
If you’re unsure, vodka is the most neutral and closest to traditional store-bought extract.
How to Make Homemade Vanilla Extract
Step 1: Split the Vanilla Beans
Using a sharp knife, slice each vanilla bean lengthwise to expose the seeds inside. You don’t need to scrape them out — just split them open.
Step 2: Add to Bottle
Place the split beans inside a clean glass bottle or jar.
Step 3: Pour Alcohol Over Beans
Pour vodka or bourbon over the beans until fully submerged. Seal tightly.
Step 4: Shake and Store
Give the bottle a gentle shake and store in a cool, dark place.
Shake once a week for the first month.
How Long Does Homemade Vanilla Extract Take?
For best flavor:
- Minimum: 8 weeks
- Ideal: 3–6 months
- Best: 12 months
The longer it sits, the deeper and richer the flavor becomes.
How to Tell When Vanilla Extract Is Ready
Your extract is ready when:
The flavor tastes smooth and aromatic
The liquid is deep amber brown
It smells strongly of vanilla
Can You Reuse Vanilla Beans?
Yes! After using the extract:
- Top off the bottle with more alcohol once or twice
- Add fresh beans if flavor weakens
Vanilla beans can often be reused for up to one year.
Homemade Vanilla Extract for Gifts
DIY vanilla extract makes beautiful holiday or hostess gifts.
To gift:
- Pour into small amber glass bottles
- Add a handwritten label
- Tie with twine or ribbon
It’s thoughtful, practical, and always appreciated.
FAQs About Homemade Vanilla Extract
Can I make vanilla extract without alcohol?
Pure extract requires alcohol to properly extract flavor. Alcohol-free versions exist but are technically vanilla infusions, not true extract.
How many vanilla beans per cup?
Use 5–6 beans per cup of alcohol for standard strength. For stronger extract, use 8–10 beans.
Does homemade vanilla extract go bad?
No — because of the alcohol content, it keeps for years when stored properly.
Is homemade vanilla extract stronger?
Often yes — especially if allowed to age 6–12 months.
Print
How to Make Homemade Vanilla Extract
- Prep Time: 1 minute
- Cook Time: n/a
- Total Time: 1 minute
- Yield: 8 oz. Vanilla Extract
Description
Making your own homemade vanilla extract is not only a cost effective way to get the best quality vanilla for your baking, but it’s incredibly delicious too! Here’s how to make it…
Ingredients
- Vanilla Beans (5-6 per bottle)
- Vodka or Bourbon (80% proof)
Instructions
- Slice your vanilla bean in half lengthwise and then in half across
- Add them into a dark amber bottle
- Using a funnel, pour in about 8 oz. of your booze of choice
- Tightly seal and label
- Tuck away in a dark cool cabinet for 6 months-year
Notes
If you try making your own homemade vanilla extract, I’d love it if you came back and let me know how it turned out!
- Category: Baking
- Cuisine: Baking
Keywords: homemade vanilla extract, how to make vanilla extract, bourbon vanilla extract, vanilla bourbon, vanilla vodka, vanilla extract labels, 2 ingredient vanilla extract
Tips for the Best Vanilla Extract
- Use grade B vanilla beans for best value
- Keep beans fully submerged
- Store in a dark cabinet
- Label with the start date
Final Thoughts
Making homemade vanilla extract is one of the easiest ways to elevate your baking and embrace a more intentional kitchen.
It takes minutes to prepare and rewards you with years of rich, real vanilla flavor.
Once you start, you may never go back to store-bought again.
