Have you ever wondered how to make Vanilla Extract? Well this post is for you!
I’ve been making my own Vanilla Extract for a couple of years now and there is no way I will ever go back to buying it! Vanilla Extract is incredibly simple to make and all you need is a few vanilla beans and some vodka – too easy! Now that Christmas isn’t too far away (yes, I know this is a VERY scary thought!) now is the time to make your Vanilla Extract so that it will be lovely and rich by Christmas time.
While I like to make up a couple of bottles to keep me going throughout the year, I also like to make up my own Vanilla Extract to give as gifts too. In the past I have purchased small bottles from Kmart or other discount stores to transfer it into and I’ve given bottles of it both on it’s own and also as part of a homemade Christmas Hamper.
Once you’ve made your vanilla extract and have started using it, just top it up with vodka as the bottle is used. You can also add a couple of fresh vanilla pods to it too.
You can learn how to make Vanilla Extract below..
How to Make Vanilla Extract
Ingredients
- 10 - 12 vanilla beans
- 600 ml vodka
Instructions
- Slice the vanilla beans lengthways so that you can see the vanilla inside.
- Place the split vanilla beans into a glass jar/bottle and add the vodka.
- Pop the lid on and give the bottle/jar a gentle shake.
- Store the bottle/jar of vanilla extract in a dark place and give it a gentle shake once a week.
- You can use your homemade vanilla extract after one month, but I prefer to leave it for two months if possible.
Rebecca Senyard says
This is awesome. I’ve never thought about making vanilla extract but it looks so easy and will stop me buying all those little bottles I go through when I bake.
Syw says
I didn’t realise vanilla extract had alcohol in it. You learn something new every day