I love the smell of natural vanilla, it can be used in so many recipes and is perfect for My super coffeeI even use it in my own DIY skincare recipes like this one. Sugar lip scrub.
Unfortunately, store-bought “real vanilla” extract often contains corn syrup or sugar. There’s also a big difference between pure vanilla extract and fake vanilla. You’ll find ingredients like caramel coloring, artificial flavors, corn syrup, and propylene glycol hiding in the synthetic version.
I’ve been making my own vanilla extract for years. Not only is it cheaper than store-bought vanilla extract, but the flavor is unmatched. With only two ingredients, it’s also one of the simplest recipes you can make.
Vanilla extract can also be called vanilla tincture, as it is basically a tincture made from edible liquor and whole vanilla beans. With one cup of vodka, some vanilla beans, and some time, you can create your own vanilla extract.
Different types of vanilla beans
There are several types of vanilla beans. Any one will do, but here’s the difference:
Grade A beans (which I use) have a higher moisture content and extract faster. Grade B beans are drier and perform well in the extraction process, plus they can be a bit cheaper. I prefer Bourbon Madagascar vanilla beans, which have a rich, floral vanilla flavor and aroma.
They are a bit pricey at your local grocery stores but you can find them online at places like Amazon for much less.
Best types of alcohol to use
You will also need: High quality alcoholic beverages This means that the alcohol content of this drink is at least 35%. I prefer to use rum, having found that it is free of GMOs and corn syrup. Spiced rumPapagayo rum is another great option. From what I’ve read, Four Roses Bourbon and Wild Turkey are also GMO-free, but those are the only two I’ve been able to verify. You can also look for organic rum, vodka, or bourbon.
You can also use a regular bottle of vodka, but avoid the flavored ones. These usually contain artificial and unhealthy ingredients. The number of ounces of alcohol you use depends on how much vanilla you want to make. If you’re just making it for yourself, one jar will do, but you can easily double or triple the recipe for gifts.
vanilla soaking guide
Now that you have your vanilla beans and alcohol, what’s next? You’ll find single-fold vanilla in grocery stores and it’s not as strong. Double-fold vanilla is much stronger, sweeter, and more flavorful, but it requires more beans.
For a single folded vanilla, you will need 6-8 vanilla beans per 8 ounces of alcohol. If you want to make a double folded vanilla, simply double the amount of beans. I use about 8 vanilla beans per cup of alcohol in my drink and it still tastes good.
Once the coffee beans are in the liquid, they should be steeped at room temperature and out of direct sunlight for at least 3 months. For the best flavor, they should be steeped for 12 months. You can use 8 ounce bottles or larger, depending on how much vanilla you want.
reuse vanilla beans
Every time you use up a little bit of vanilla extract, you can simply refill it with more alcohol. Once the extract starts to lose its flavor, replace the used vanilla beans with new ones.
Here is a very easy recipe on how to make homemade vanilla extract.
Homemade Vanilla Extract Recipe
Homemade natural vanilla extract with just 2 ingredients. It’s delicious and aromatic for baking, cooking or coffee.
- 8 ounce Organic or non-GMO alcohol (Spiced rum, brandy, bourbon, or vodka with 80% alcohol content)
- 7-8 vanilla beans
Cut the vanilla pods in half lengthwise with a sharp knife to expose the inside of the vanilla pod. Trim if necessary to fit the jar.
Place the split beans in a tall glass bowl. You can use a reused maple syrup bottle or a large glass bowl.
Pour your favorite alcohol over the beans.
Close tightly and shake gently.
Store in a cool, dark place for at least a month, shaking occasionally. Best left for 2-3 months for best flavor. For a stronger version, let steep for 12 months.
Nutrition Facts
Homemade Vanilla Extract Recipe
Amount per serving (0.5 teaspoon)
Calories 6
% Daily Value*
Carbohydrates 0.3 grams0%
Sugar 0.3 g0%
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
- I use vanilla extract straight from the jar and replenish the alcohol as I use it. You can continue using the same vanilla beans until you notice the extract losing its flavor.
- If you need sweet vanilla extract for a recipe, simply add a little raw honey or maple syrup for a corn syrup and refined sugar-free option.
Ways to use vanilla extract
It’s a great DIY Christmas gift. There’s something special about homemade holiday gifts. You can even add a homemade label and put it in a cute jar. Here are some recipes and DIY projects to use your homemade vanilla extract:
Have you ever made your own extracts before? What did you make? Leave a comment and let us know!
