Homemade Vanilla Extract with Vanilla Extract Labels
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This DIY Homemade Vanilla Extract is so stinkin’ easy to make and is full-bodied with rich, sweet, earthy notes. Just 2 ingredients, vodka and vanilla beans and you are on your way. There’s no better time to make your own Vanilla Extract than this week! Plus free vanilla extract labels!
Just like a fine wine, homemade vanilla extract needs time to age and brew; developing it’s rich, intense flavor we’ve all grown to love, nothing “plain” about it!
Looking for other cost saving, but beautiful DIY ideas? Try this Bourbon Vanilla Extract, Lemon & Peppermint Antibacterial Hand Scrub or Pumpkin Spice Mix or How to Make Brown Sugar!
Table of contents
- What is an Extract?
- The Best Vanilla Extract Ingredients
- What Alcohol Do I use to Make Vanilla Extract?
- What are the best beans for vanilla extract?
- What is Better, A or B Grade Vanilla Beans?
- Varieties of Vanilla Beans
- When Should I Start Vanilla Extract?
- Tips
- How to Make Homemade Vanilla Extract
- How Long Does it Take to Make Vanilla Extract?
- Making Vanilla in the Instant Pot
- How Long Does Homemade Vanilla Extract Last
- Vanilla Gift Giving Ideas and Tips
- Free Vanilla Extract Labels
What is an Extract?
- Vanilla extract is an infusion of vanilla bean pods in quality, food-grade spirits.
- The beauty of homemade vanilla extract is once you get it started, simply top it off and you will have vanilla forever.
- It is much more economical to make your own. I’ll talk more about the how-to later in the post.
The Best Vanilla Extract Ingredients
Quality matters! I suggest you invest in quality ingredients; this is an investment that will pay off for years to come.
You don’t have to purchase top shelf spirits or the highest grade vanilla beans, but buy the best you can afford.
What Alcohol Do I use to Make Vanilla Extract?
The base for vanilla extract is plain ol’ alcohol, but which alcohol is best? The good news is you get to choose! Just don’t use rubbing alcohol, drinking alcohol is what we’re after here.
- Vodka | Most Common, Neutral, Pure Vanilla Flavor (what I typically use)
- Rum | Smooth, Sweet, Rich
- Bourbon | Complex, Smooth, Deep Flavor (amazing!)
- Brandy | Unique, Deep Flavor
Use a minimum of 70 proof/35% alcohol.
What are the best beans for vanilla extract?
The Madagascar Bourbon vanilla bean is the most popular and Indian vanilla beans are the most consistent.
The most economical beans are Madagascar Bourbon Beans, still expensive, but keep in mind this is a long term investment. I’ve purchased my vanilla beans primarily from Costco (when in stock) or Amazon. (Source)
What is Better, A or B Grade Vanilla Beans?
I used Grade A beans because they were the best deal at the time, however; Grade B beans work extremely well for extracts and are cheaper.
Bottom line, the vanilla bean you use is up to you, however the beans should be plump vs. dry in my experience. These vanilla beans are actually a fabulous deal.
Varieties of Vanilla Beans
- Madagascar Bourbon Vanilla – rich and creamy
- Mexican Vanilla – bold, dark, smokey
- Indian Vanilla – full, chocolate
- Indonesian Vanilla – mild, well balanced
- Tahitian Vanilla – floral, cherry-chocolate
- Tonga Vanilla – earthy, fig, raisin
For my first batch I used vodka and Madagascar Bourbon vanilla beans. I have since made this amazing, smoky Bourbon Vanilla Extract!
When Should I Start Vanilla Extract?
Start in October (or earlier) for December gifts! Start anytime, really, just note if gifting when it will be best, read on for ideal lengths of time.
Be sure to add a “brewed on” date and instruct recipient that the longer it sits and “brews” the better!
Tips
- Approximately 10-15 soft Grade A or B vanilla beans per 750 ml of spirits, or cut vanilla beans into sections and place 3-4 vanilla beans per 16 oz bottle.
- What is the Best Alcohol to make Vanilla Extract? Traditional vanilla uses vodka; however bourbon, light rum or brandy (use a minimum of 70 proof/35% alcohol)
- Tight sealing clear glass bottle, love the dispensing cap on these! Other bottling options; swing top, boston round or a rounded swing top | *Make in a large ball jar and then once your vanilla has brewed pour into gifting jars!
- While it isn’t always necessary, I recommend sterilizing your bottles or jars before using them. This can be done by boiling them in a stock-pot of water for 10 minutes, then carefully remove them to a clean towel to dry completely.
- A small funnel.
- A sharp tipped knife, this is my all around most favorite and most versatile knife!
- A little bit of patience! You need a minimum of 4 weeks for decent results, 12-16 weeks is better, 6 months best, however, one year is ultimate! Besides, the longer it “brews” the darker, richer and more full-bodied it will become! Instead of starting just one bottle, start two, one to work with and one to sit in the cupboard and brew for 6 months to a year.
How to Make Homemade Vanilla Extract
- Slice the vanilla bean lengthwise, using the tip of a sharp knife, stopping just before the end of the bean, so as to not split it in half, you are exposing the “meat” of the vanilla bean.
2. Place desired number of sliced vanilla beans into bottle(s) of choice. If necessary snip your beans in half or pieces so that the alcohol covers the entire bean, this will prevent mold.
3. With funnel placed on top of the bottle, slowly pour your alcohol over the beans until they are covered and bottle is full. I’m a little anal, measuring my vodka, I love these measuring cups.
PRO TIP | If your funnel isn’t flowing, simply lift the funnel slightly breaking the seal, allowing it to flow easily.
4. Place lid on and tighten, shake gently for a minute or so. Got it?!
5. Finally, using a chalk or metallic marker write vanilla type, start date on the bottom or side of the bottle and place in a cool, dark part of your pantry. Place a reminder on your calendar to shake it weekly for a minimum of 4 weeks, remember the longer the better.
Too slow? See below for a suggested Instant Pot recipe.
How Long Does it Take to Make Vanilla Extract?
I call it the “SNIFF TEST” stick your nose in there, breathe deeply when it smells like vanilla and not the original spirit, it’s ready!
Making Vanilla in the Instant Pot
I’ve been asked if I’ve ever made vanilla extract in my Instant Pot and my answer is, not yet. In many ways I’m slow to change and like the old, traditional methods.
The upside to making vanilla extract in a pressure cooker, is it’s done in less than 24 hours and you use a fewer beans to liquid ratio — that alone might inspire me to try it!
Until then, if you are interested, here’s a recipe and research on Instant Pot Vanilla Extract, plus it’s an amazing blog that I know my readers will enjoy! I’d love to hear if you try it.
How Long Does Homemade Vanilla Extract Last
Forever! Yep, as long as you stick to a few rules it should last you a long time, if not a lifetime. You have several options:
- Everytime you use a tablespoon or more of your vanilla top it off with the same liquor (if used vodka, use vodka, bourbon, top off with bourbon). Shake well a few times and you are ready to go for next time, plus you ensure your beans stay covered and moist. No waiting involved.
- Or wait until you’ve used half of your vanilla or your beans are exposed, then top it off with original liquor; letting it hang out again in a dark pantry for 2 weeks or longer before using. This works well if you have two bottles of vanilla, then you can alternate between the two; my preferred method.
- For either method, be sure to occasionally (maybe once or twice a year) throw in a split, fresh vanilla bean or two. You can pull out one of the old ones if you wish or it’s getting too crowded.
- Have you used a vanilla bean in a recipe? Don’t throw that bean away, toss it in your bottle of vanilla. Waste not!
Vanilla Gift Giving Ideas and Tips
- Gift giving bottles, I love these little square swing top bottles! I’ve used these amber Boston round bottles as well.
- I bought these cute chalkboard labels to put on my bottles, but these craft labels sure are cute as well!
- I love to tie my bottles with bakers twine in red or tan as well as regular twine. Raffia is awfully fun also.
- A tag is nice; grab the free printable below, several options.
Free Vanilla Extract Labels
Print on Avery 64502 2″ Waterproof Round Labels
Print on 65# Kraft Paper or #65 cardstock cut out using 2″ Round punch
Cut out by hand
Four label styles to choose from, print one or all four. Click ABOVE button to access printables.
I use vanilla in most of my sweet recipes. Vanilla shines in these favorite recipes; Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies, Oatmeal Sandwich Cookies or my Giant Pan-Banging Chocolate Chip Cookies!
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Equipment
Ingredients
- 750 ml alcohol; vodka bourbon, light rum or brandy (use a minimum of 70 proof/35% alcohol) I used vodka which is traditional
- Approximately 8-12 soft fresh Grade A or B Madagascar [vanilla beans]
Instructions
- While it isn’t always necessary, I recommend sterilizing your bottles or jars before using them. This can be done by boiling them in a stock-pot of water for 10 minutes, then carefully remove them to a clean towel to dry completely.
- Using the tip of a sharp knife slice bean gently lengthwise, stopping just before you get to the end.
- Place desired number of sliced vanilla beans into the bottle of choice, snip your beans in half if the alcohol doesn’t cover the entire bean as this will prevent mold.
- With funnel placed on top of the bottle, slowly pour your alcohol over the beans until they are covered and bottle is full. *Tip | If your funnel isn’t flowing, simply lift it slightly off the mouth of the bottle breaking the seal and allow it to flow easily. Place on lid and tighten, shake passionately for a minute.
- Write date started on the bottom or side of the bottle, using chalk or metallic marker as well as type of vanilla. Put a reminder in your calendar to shake it weekly for at least 8 weeks, preferably up to 4-6 months.
- Once your vanilla no longer smells of the spirit you used and smells instead like vanilla it is ready!
Making Vanilla Last
- Everytime you use a tablespoon or more of your vanilla top it off with the same liquor used the first time (i.e if it was originally made with vodka, use vodka). Give it several passionate shakes and you are ready to go for next time, plus you ensure your beans stay covered and moist. No waiting involved, but not the most convenient.
- Wait until you’ve used about half of your vanilla, then top it off with same original liquor, but let it hang out again in a dark pantry for 2 weeks or longer before using. This works well if you have two bottles of vanilla, then you can alternate between the two, this is my preferred method.
- For either method, be sure to occasionally (maybe once or twice a year) throw in a fresh vanilla bean. And always if you’ve used a bean in cooking or baking — don’t throw that bean away, toss it in your bottle of vanilla.
Vanilla Gift Giving Ideas and Tips
- Gift giving bottles, these are the cutest! I love these little square swing top bottles! Might have to get myself some! I’ve used these amber boston round bottles as well.
- I bought some cute chalkboard labels to put on my bottles, but these craft labels sure are cute too!
- A cute tag is nice as well to let people know what to do with their vanilla, tie one on (no pun intended) with these simple instructions: 1. Keep vanilla in cool, dark place in pantry. 2. Shake every now and then. 3. When half way used, replenish with "vodka" (or whatever spirit you used); let sit for 2-4 weeks before using (use this tip only if you left a few vanilla beans in the gift extract).
Video
Fresh Tips
For Instant Pot Instructions, see original post
Enough tight sealing bottles for the amount of vanilla desire. Bottling options: clear glass bottle, swing top, boston round or a [rounded swing top](https://amzn.to/2q64uJ2)A small [funnel](https://amzn.to/2R6VcYv).
4 weeks for good results, 12-16 weeks is better, 6 months is even better, but the ultimate is one year The longer it "brews" the richer & more full-bodied it will be
If desired; a cute label for packaging (see gift giving options)
Nutrition
Recommended Products
Recommended Supplies for Homemade Vanilla
About Kathleen Pope
Recipe Innovator | Food Photographer | Food Writer
Hi, I’m Kathleen Pope. Here at The Fresh Cooky you will find easy, mostly from-scratch, trusted recipes for all occasions. From speedy dinners to tasty desserts, with easy step-by-step instructions. I am here to help teach you how to make mouthwatering recipes without spending hours in the kitchen. Read more about Kathleen here.
How long would you say the original beans last in the bottle? Can you keep topping it off indefinitely or is there a point where you should start a fresh bottle?
Hi Brittnie, I typically refresh my beans about every 18 months. As long as they stay submerged in the alcohol they are fine, if they are exposed that can breed bacteria. That being said if you keep submerged, and keep topping it off, they truly can last indefinitely. But will eventually lose their ability to flavor. Which is why I will trade them out every once in a while. I just wait for sales on vanilla beans.
I made this in June using 10 madagascar beans in 750 ml bottle vodka. It looks like weak coffee and transparent. Should I have used more beans? If so how many? for future reference. Thanks
Hi Joan,
Sometimes the beans aren’t quite as “juicy” as other times, I would suggest adding 5-7 more for that size of a bottle, that being said, it does take time for the colors to darken. Are you taking it out every week and giving it a gentle shake? Did you slice through the beans to expose the insides? These are some things that could affect the coloring of the vanilla.
AND, you can add more now, nothing is wrong with what you have, adding more will only deepen the vanilla. But remember that for the best vanilla, it really should brew for about 6 months. I made several bottles at a time and rotate mine so that whenI need to refill (I try and do after just a few uses so it’s not so much that the beans need to infuse).
It should totally be salvageable and I have a hunch unless the beans were really dry when you started, that with time this will develop into a rich, dark vanilla.
Let me know if you have any other questions.
Kathleen
I made vanilla using vodka. I put 20 beans in it. It is finally ready n it smells heavenly! Tomorrow I will be baking n using it for the first time. Can’t wait.
Ooh I can smell it with you! Happy baking! I know you will love it!
I definitely want to try making this!! How do you store the extra vanilla beans until they are ready to be used? Would hate for my extra beans to go bad.
I hope you love it! For leftover storage, if you have vacuum sealer, that would be best, otherwise, place beans in a dry airtight container in a dark cabinet or cupboard. Or place in a glass test tube (I have these from previous vanilla bean purchases) with a plastic tight fitting lid.
Hello! I was wondering if you can say what type of bourbon you use? And do you like it made with vodka or bourbon best?
I love both, for everyday recipes, I use my vodka based vanilla, but for specialty recipes where the flavors shine through, I love using the bourbon, like in this Cherry Bomb cocktail or No bake Chocolate Pie! I like using Buffalo Trace bourbon as it is a gluten-free bourbon and pretty clean and not super expensive. Be sure to check out my post (with labels too) for Bourbon Vanilla. Hope that helps!
I purchased some clear vanilla extract years ago. My daughter liked it for frosting. How is it made and or different? Getting ready to make a bottle with spiced rum.
Hi Linda,
Mine is always colored since I use real vanilla beans and I believe clear vanilla is made using a vanilla flavoring not real beans. And I know that you will love its with spiced rum! My Bourbon Vanilla is my favorite!
Let me know if you find out any differently.
Kathleen
My vanilla has been “cooking” for almost 4 months, but the color is not as dark as yours. I hesitate to give as gifts if they aren’t fully perked.
Thanks Martha, sometimes the beans just don’t give off enough. I would suggest adding a few more beans to your brew, make sure that they are plump and that you sliced them down the middle to expose the seeds inside. But sometimes, mine is lighter than other times as well. If it smells like vanilla, it should be good.
Kathleen, hello and I am excited to be part of your recipe club. I’ve read through making Vanilla Extract and I do not see any mention as to the number of vanilla beans to add to the bottle prior to adding ones liquor of choice.
So excited to have you Shirley! Yes, using between 6-12 beans, split between the bottles of your choice if using 750 ml of vodka. If only making 16 oz, use between 5-7 beans per bottle. You can also tuck all of the beans right into the full bottle of vodka and let it brew right there. Then when splitting, add a fresh bean to each bottle you are splitting into. Hope that helos!
After the 6 months do we take out the vanilla beans? And can I then use the vanilla beans for vanilla sugar?
Hi Juli, I keep my vanilla beans in, about 1x a year I will pull them all out and put in a few new ones. I have never tried using the used ones for vanilla sugar, give it a try, but be sure to allow the beans to dry first and let me know how it goes!
Can I simply add the vanilla beans to a bottle of vodka?
Hello!
I love your vanilla extract recipe and tips. Thank you!
But I have a question. I was given a bottle of 7 year old cognac and we don’t drink. Would it make a decent tasting batch of vanilla extract?
Thanks so much,
Sherrye
Thank you so much. I’m thinking that it would make an exceptional bottle of vanilla, if you have the patience, it would be better if you would be able to let it sit at least 6-12 months. I would use it in things where the vanilla shines through, as in a bread pudding, sauces, drinks, cakes.
Good luck, let me know how it goes!
How many vanilla beans/stalks do you recommend for an 8 oz. bottle?
thanks!
Good morning Deb, I would recommend 4 vanilla beans per 8 oz! Hope you love it! Let me know how it turns out.
Kathleen
Can I simply add vanilla beans to a new bottle of vodka?
Yes, you sure can! Just make sure to do the math for the volume in the bottle and the number of vanilla beans. Plus, you will need to pour or use some prior to adding the beans, as they will add volume and will overflow the bottle! Best of luck to you!
Hey friend…I need to check Costco for my beans! Thanks for the tip. And I love those labels! They really make those lovely bottles all the more special.
Thank you my friend!!
You don’t mention anything about sanitizing the bottles and caps before making this recipe. The 12 amber 4oz bottles I bought didn’t come with any use directions either. Have you thoughts on this?
Hi Jeanne, good point! I don’t typically do this, but probably not a bad idea!
While it isn’t always necessary, I recommend sterilizing your bottles or jars before using them. This can be done by boiling them in a stock-pot of water for 10 minutes, then carefully remove them to a clean towel to dry completely. Thanks!
I can’t believe how easy this was to make! And so much cheaper than buying it!
I had no idea how easy DIY vanilla is to make!!
This recipe made the best gift for my bestie on Valentines Day. I use a ton of vanilla extract and it is so much cheaper to make!
I made homemade vanilla years ago using this same recipe. It’s so delicious and a great gift to give to people.
It is Debi! So fun to give!!
I love having homemade vanilla and have made vanilla with Madagascar extract, but not with bourbon! Excited to try it soon!
This has been on my “to-make” list forever! And considering how much vanilla I use, I think I am finally going to have to make my own extract. Thanks for the reminder! 🙂
I can’t wait to see what you think!!!
You’ve inspired me! I can’t wait to try making homemade vanilla. Thanks for writing such a complete post with all the directions and materials. Great photos, too!
Thank you Eliza, the inspiration goes both ways! Thank you, I hope you try it!
Oh you are the most encouraging person I know!!! Thanks Eliza!!