Perfect Homemade Vanilla Bean Extract Gift Bottle Recipe for Easy DIY Gifts
A simple and easy recipe to make your own vanilla bean extract using just vanilla beans and vodka, perfect for gifting or enhancing your baking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 6 weeks (infusion time)
- Yield: About 1 cup of vanilla extract 1x
- Category: DIY Extracts / Gifts
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 4–6 whole vanilla beans (preferably Madagascar Bourbon)
- 1 cup (240 ml) vodka (neutral, 40% ABV)
- Optional: dark rum or bourbon to replace vodka for a richer flavor
Instructions
- Using a sharp knife, carefully split each vanilla bean lengthwise to expose the seeds inside.
- Place the split beans into a glass bottle or jar.
- Pour 1 cup (240 ml) of vodka over the beans, ensuring they are fully submerged.
- Seal the bottle tightly and store in a cool, dark place.
- Shake the bottle gently every few days to mix the flavors.
- Let the vanilla beans infuse for at least 6 weeks, ideally 8 weeks or longer for richer flavor.
- Optional: strain the extract through a fine mesh or cheesecloth into smaller bottles once ready, leaving beans in or removing them as preferred.
Notes
Use fresh, moist vanilla beans for best flavor. Shake the bottle regularly to distribute oils. Avoid flavored or low-proof alcohols. Patience is key—do not rush infusion. Beans can be reused to flavor sugar or coffee after extraction.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 teaspoon (5 ml)
- Calories: 12
- Carbohydrates: 0.5
Keywords: vanilla bean extract, homemade vanilla extract, DIY vanilla extract, vanilla bean, vodka, gift bottle, easy vanilla extract