Homemade Vanilla Extract

A little bottle of patience, warmth and homemade sweetness — just vanilla beans and vodka, left to slowly become a rich, fragrant baking staple. Lovely as a homemade gift, too.

Ingredients

• About 1 ounce vanilla beans (3–6 beans, depending on size)
• 1 cup (8 oz) 80-proof vodka
• Clean glass jar or bottle with a tight-fitting lid

Instructions

1. Using a small sharp knife, carefully split each vanilla bean lengthwise to expose the interior. If the beans are too tall for your bottle, cut them into shorter pieces.
2. Place the vanilla beans inside a clean glass bottle or jar.
3. Pour the vodka over the beans until they are completely submerged.
4. Seal tightly and store at room temperature away from direct sunlight. Give the bottle a gentle shake occasionally.
5. For a well-developed extract, let it infuse for at least 6 months. Waiting 12 months or longer can develop an even richer flavor.

Rustic pantry tip: add a handwritten label with the “Made On” date and an “Open After” date six months later. A little kraft-paper tag and baker's twine make these beautiful homemade gifts, too. Use it anywhere you would normally reach for vanilla extract — cakes, cookies, buttercream, pancakes, muffins and other cozy baking favorites.