How to Make Homemade Vanilla Extract (Cheaper, Stronger & Better Than Store-Bought)
Looking for a way to save money on baking staples and elevate your flavor game?
Learning how to make homemade vanilla extract is the ultimate kitchen hack for home bakers and gift-givers alike. Not only is it significantly cheaper than those tiny $50 bottles at the store, but it’s also stronger, richer, and completely customizable to your taste.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making vanilla extract using real beans and the right alcohol, share tips I wish I’d known when I started, and show you how to turn this DIY into a thoughtful foodie gift. 🎥 Watch the full video tutorial on Facebook here
Why Homemade Vanilla Extract Is a Game-Changer
Real vanilla extract can be pricey—but when you make it yourself, you get way more for less. And the flavor? Unbeatable. This homemade vanilla extract recipe is rich, warm, and deeply aromatic—perfect for baking, cooking, or gifting.
What You Need: Vanilla Beans 101
Choose the right beans for bold flavor:
Madagascar Bourbon: Classic and rich (Kasandra’s go-to)
Tahitian: Floral and fruity
Mexican: Warm with spice undertones
Grades:
Grade A: Plump, great if you want to use the seeds in other recipes.
Grade B: Drier and ideal for extract only—budget-friendly and effective.
💡 Tip: Buy in bulk from Vanilla Bean Kings USE CODE BUSYBAKER10 for 10% off and seal them tightly after opening.
Best Alcohol for Extract
(PRO TIP: Don’t Overthink It)
Vodka: Clean and neutral—lets the vanilla shine.
Bourbon/Whiskey/Rum: Adds rich, spicy depth—perfect for fall or festive baking.
Stick to 70–100 proof (35–50% ABV) for safe, effective extraction.
AVOID EVERCLEAR...IT IS A 150 PROOF AND WILL BURN YOUR BEANS
The Golden Ratio for This Recipe
1 oz of beans per 8 oz of alcohol (by weight, not number)- you need a scale for this recipe to work well. Don't eyeball or guess.
Want extra strength? Double the beans for “baker’s strength” vanilla.
I have my favorite scale in my Top 10
"Once I made my first batch of homemade vanilla, I never looked back. It's simple, satisfying, and absolutely essential in my kitchen."
Recipe information
10 minutes
3-6 months (curing)
8oz
Extracts
American
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Extract
1 oz vanilla beans (about 6–8 whole beans, depending on size)
8 oz (1 cup) alcohol (vodka, bourbon, rum, or whiskey – 70–100 proof)
1 airtight glass jar (8 oz or larger, preferably dark glass or stored in a dark place)
Optional: Label or tag for dating and gifting
Pro Tip: Once your extract is ready, you can strain it if desired—or leave the beans in and refill with more alcohol over time!
Step-by-Step Directions:
Prepare Your Jar
Clean and dry your jar thoroughly. Choose one that seals tightly and holds at least 8 ounces.Split the Vanilla Beans
Using a sharp knife, split each vanilla bean lengthwise to expose the seeds. Cut in half if needed to fully submerge.Add the Beans to the Jar
Place the split beans into your jar.Pour in the Alcohol
Pour 8 oz of your chosen alcohol over the beans, fully covering them.Seal and Shake
Seal the jar tightly and shake well to combine.Store and Infuse
Store the jar in a cool, dark place (like a pantry or cupboard). Shake gently every 1–2 weeks.Wait for Full Flavor
Let the extract infuse for 3 to 6 months. The longer it sits, the deeper the flavor.Label Your Jar
Mark the jar with the start date, type of beans, and alcohol used. Optional: Add a “ready by” date.
Watch Kasandra give a 45 min Busy and Baked Masterclass on everything you need to know about making homemade vanilla.
In this video, I cover:
- Why store-bought vanilla costs $30–$50 (and how to make it for a fraction of the price)
- The different types of beans + which ones give you the BEST flavor
- The exact formula for homemade extract that lasts for years
- How to turn it into gorgeous (and affordable) holiday giftsI haven’t bought vanilla since the pandemic… and after watching this, you won’t either.
CUPCAKE DRAWING RECIPE IDEAS SPIRAL NOTEBOOK
Bring your baking dreams to life with this charming cupcake drawing notebook! Featuring a whimsical sketch of 'The Perfect Cupcake,' complete with creative annotations like edible glitter, surprise fillings, and frosting inspiration, this spiral notebook is perfect for jotting down recipes, sketching ideas, or planning your next bake. A delightful addition for bakers, artists, or anyone who loves sweet creativity.
How to Make Homemade Vanilla Extract: Extra Tips + Gift Ideas
Refill Your Extract: Add more alcohol as you use it—beans can last years.
Avoid the Fridge: Beans will mold—store in a dark, dry cabinet.
Gift It Up: Pour into mini glass bottles, add custom labels or a tag, and pair with a whisk or tea towel for a perfect gift.
Look good in the kitchen
With just a few ingredients and a little patience, you’ll have a homemade vanilla extract that’s richer, stronger, and way more affordable than anything store-bought. Plus, you’ll never run out—and your baked goods will taste like magic. Have you tried this recipe for vanilla extract ? Share your experience in the comments—or tag me on Instagram with your jars!
The Author :Kasandra Lynne
Kasandra is a passionate baker, surgeon, and entrepreneur who believes that food is a powerful way to bring people together. As the founder of Busy and Baked, she helps busy professionals find joy in baking through easy, foolproof recipes and engaging storytelling. With a background in science and a love for experimenting in the kitchen, Dr. Kasandra blends precision with creativity, ensuring that every recipe is as fun to make as it is delicious to eat.
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