Homemade Vanilla Extract Recipe (with Video)

Selecting and Preparing the Vanilla Beans
1. Select high-quality vanilla beans like Grade A Madagascar Whole Vanilla Beans.
2. Lay the vanilla beans flat on a cutting board.
3. Using a sharp knife, split each bean in half lengthwise, leaving about an inch at the top uncut.
4. Using the back of your knife, scrape the vanilla from the bean and place it in the jar.
Creating the Vanilla Extract
1. Insert the split vanilla beans into a clean, airtight glass bottle or jar. You may need to cut the beans in half to fit them inside the container.
2. Fill to the top with vodka over the vanilla beans in the jar. Ensure the beans are completely submerged in the alcohol.
3. Seal the jar with a tight-fitting lid.
Storing and Using the Vanilla Extract
1. Store the sealed jar in a cool, dark place. Give the jar a gentle shake every few days to help distribute the flavor. The vanilla extract will take time to infuse, and it will become more flavorful as it ages.
2. Let the vanilla extract sit for at least 5 weeks. The longer it sits, the richer the flavor will become.
3. As you use the homemade vanilla extract, you can keep the same beans in the jar and replenish the alcohol. At about half empty, add more vanilla beans to ensure the extract doesn’t become too diluted. You can continue to use and replenish it for several years.