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4.67 from 21 votes

How To Make Vanilla Extract

Here's how to make vanilla extract with just five minutes of hands-on time and two ingredients. It's so delicious you'll never want to buy store-bought again. 
Prep Time 5 minutes
Infusing Time 56 days
Total Time 56 days
Calories 1226kcal
Author Heather Dessinger

Equipment

  • sharp knife
  • Two 8 ounce jars or one 16 ounce jar

Ingredients

Instructions

A note before getting started:

  • A note before getting started: Some extract makers choose to split the vanilla bean lengthwise to accelerate the infusion process, while others avoid this step because they feel it makes the extract a bit more cloudy. I've tried both methods and think they both deliver excellent results, so choose whichever approach you prefer.
    If you'd like to use split vanilla beans, just use a sharp knife to cut them lengthwise before adding them to your bottle. 

How to make vanilla extract:

  • Place vanilla beans in a bottle or jar. Pour the liquor over them until they are completely covered. Seal the container and shake well. 
  • Allow the bottle to infuse in a dark cabinet for at least eight weeks. Give it a good shake every couple of weeks or so. The longer you let the vanilla infuse the stronger the flavor will be. I've allowed some of my batches to age for over a year. 
  • When the extract has reached the depth of flavor that you prefer, remove the vanilla beans and use them to make vanilla sugar (you'll find instructions in the FAQ section below) or as an addition to your morning coffee. Store your extract in either a dark container or a dark cabinet.

Nutrition

Calories: 1226kcal | Carbohydrates: 13g | Fat: 8g | Sodium: 5mg | Iron: 1mg