I love the natural vanilla scent. It can be used in so many recipes and is perfect My super food is coffee. I even use it in DIY skin care recipes like this one. Sugar cookie lip scrub.
Unfortunately, store-bought “real vanilla” extract often contains corn syrup or sugar. There is a big difference between pure vanilla extract and imitation vanilla. You’ll find hidden ingredients like caramel coloring, artificial flavors, corn syrup, and propylene glycol 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 unbeatable. With only two ingredients, it is one of the easiest recipes.
Vanilla extract can be called vanilla tincture, because it is basically food grade alcohol and whole vanilla bean. With just a cup of vodka, some vanilla beans and time, you can create your own vanilla extract.
Different types of vanilla beans
There are several types of vanilla beans. Any will do, but here’s the difference
The A grade beans (which I use) have more moisture in them and they go out faster. Grade B beans are a bit drier and work better for extraction, plus they can be a bit cheaper. I prefer Madagascar bourbon vanilla beans, which have a rich and floral vanilla flavor and aroma.
They are more expensive at local grocery stores, but you can find them online like Amazon for much less.
The best alcohol to use
You also need a High quality drink It is at least 35% alcohol. I prefer to use rum, since I found it non-GMO and corn syrup-free Spiced rum. Papagayo rum is another good option. From what I’ve read, Four Roses and Wild Turkey bourbons are non-GMO, but those are the only two I’ve been able to verify. You can also just look for organic rum, vodka or bourbon.
A regular bottle of vodka will do, but avoid those with different flavors. These mostly contain artificial and unhealthy ingredients. How many ounces of alcohol you actually use depends on how much vanilla you want to make. If you’re making just for yourself, one jar will do, but you can easily double or triple the recipe for a gift.
Tutorial for milking vanilla
Now that you have your beans and alcohol, what’s next? Single-fold vanilla is what you find in the grocery store and is not as strong. Double-fold is stronger, sweeter and more flavorful, but requires more beans.
For a single vanilla, you need 6-8 vanilla beans for every 8 ounces of alcohol. If you want to double fold, simply double the amount of beans. I use 8 beans in each alcoholic drink and it still tastes good.
Once your beans are in the liquid, they should be stored at room temperature and out of direct sunlight for at least 3 months. For more flavor, it should be added for 12 months. You can use 8-ounce bottles or more, depending on how much vanilla you want.
Reusing vanilla beans
Whenever you use a little vanilla extract, you can easily fill it with a little alcohol. Once it starts to lose its flavor, replace the used vanilla pods with new ones.
Here is the easiest recipe on how to make homemade vanilla extract.
Homemade vanilla extract recipe
Homemade natural vanilla with just two ingredients. It is wonderful and aromatic for baking, cooking or coffee.
- 8 Oz Organic or non-GMO alcohol (spiced rum, brandy, bourbon or 80-proof vodka)
- 7-8 Vanilla bean
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Cut the vanilla beans in half lengthwise with a sharp knife to remove the inside of the vanilla pods. Cut if necessary to fit them into the pot.
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Place the split beans in a tall glass. A recycled maple syrup glass bottle or mason jar will both work.
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Pour the alcohol of choice over the bars.
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Close tightly and shake gently.
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Store in a cool, dark place for at least a month, shaking occasionally. I prefer to leave it for 2-3 months for a better taste. For a stronger version, infuse for 12 months.
Nutrition facts
Homemade vanilla extract recipe
Amount per serving (0.5 tsp)
Calories 6
% Daily Value*
Carbohydrates 0.3 g0%
Sugar 0.3 g0%
* Percent daily values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
- I use my vanilla extract straight from the jar and just add alcohol as I go. You can use the same vanilla beans until you notice that the flavor is gone.
- If you want a sweeter vanilla extract for a recipe, add some raw honey or maple syrup to corn syrup and a sugar-free alternative.
Ways to use vanilla extract
Makes a great DIY Christmas gift. There’s something special about homemade holiday gifts. You can even include a homemade label and put it in a beautiful jar. Here are some recipes and DIY projects for using homemade vanilla extract:
Have you ever made your own products before? what did you do Leave a comment and let us know!
