Homemade vanilla extract

If you want to add something extra special to your baking, it’s time to make homemade vanilla extract.

All you need are vanilla pods, vodka, and a little patience. Submerge the pods in a bottle of vodka, and store it in a cool, dark place. Shake it weekly, and in about two months, you’ll have a fragrant, golden extract that’s better than store-bought.

Perfect for cookies, cakes, and gifting, this DIY vanilla is pure magic in a bottle! Definitely worth the effort.

Print Recipe

Homemade vanilla extract

Serves: Makes 750ml

Cooking Time: 5 mins + 2 – 4 weeks, to infuse

Ingredients

• 1 x 750ml bottle good-quality vodka
• 6 – 8 vanilla pods, split

Instructions

1

Place the vanilla pods in the bottle

2

of vodka and leave in a cool, dark

3

place, 1 month or until the vodka has

4

turned a deep brown.

5

2 Decant into smaller bottles, leaving

6

one or two vanilla pods in each jar.

Notes

Cook's tip: As you use the vanilla, top it up periodically with more vodka or more vanilla pods to keep your extract going.

ALSO SEE: How to use vanilla seeds, paste, syrup, pods and extract

How to use vanilla seeds, paste, syrup, pods and extract

Recipe, styling and photography by Katelyn Williams