With Christmas coming up within the next few months (crazy I know) I am starting to prep all the homemade gifts. Vanilla extract is crazy expensive in stores these days, yet it is SO easy to make. So if you want to save yourself some money then keep reading!
This post contains affiliate links, including Amazon. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Thank you for supporting Simply Rustic Living!
What You Need To Make
- 80 Proof Vodka
- Grade B Vanilla Beans
- Jars
- A funnel (The jars I bought came with one to use)
How To Make Vanilla Extract
You need 4-5 Vanilla Beans per 8 oz of vodka or 1 oz of vanilla beans per 8 oz of alcohol. The jars I bought are 4 oz jars so I only used 2 beans per jar. Madagascar beans are recommended as they give off the most vanilla flavor. My favorite alcohol to use is vodka because it is cheap and by the time the extract is ready, you can't taste anything but the vanilla flavor. However, other alcohol like bourbon is fun to try!
- Carefully slice the vanilla beans open with a knife and place 2 into each jar
- Use the funnel to fill the jars with Vodka
- Close the jars and keep them in a cool dark place.
The extract will be ready to use within 6 months but I recommend waiting a full year. If you are gifting these, I like to make the vanilla extract as far in advance as possible. If they won't be ready by the time you gift them, just make sure to label the vanilla extract with the date it will be ready to use.
Other Alcohol To Use For Vanilla Extract
- Bourbon (gives a smoky flavor)
- Rum (Have not tried this one yet so I am not sure)
- Brandy (Creamy and heavy flavor. Great for desserts)
Let me know what you think and use the #simplyrusticliving on Instagram if you decide to make this!
Read next: Mouthwatering Pot Roast Recipe The Whole Fam will Love
