I have a few “foodies” in my family and this year I’ve been brainstorming different DIY homemade gifts for them. This homemade vanilla extract recipe is the first of a few I’ll be sharing and it’s SO simple-it does take 6 weeks to be ready to gift so that’s why I’m posting it
Supplies and Ingredients for Homemade Vanilla Extract
- Bottles with Lids
- Vanilla Beans
- Unflavored Vodka
As you look for vanilla beans for your homemade vanilla extract you’ll notice there are different varieties classified by their origin. Madagascar vanilla beans are the most commonly used for making vanilla extract-they have a creamy, buttery taste and tend to be a little less expensive and easier to find in stores. For a slightly more “fancy” extract choose dark, rich Mexican vanilla beans or rich chocolatey Tahitian varieties.
How to Make Vanilla Extract
Time needed: 42 days and 5 minutes.
How to Make Vanilla Extract
- Clean Bottles
Clean bottles thoroughly and allow to dry.
- Prepare Vanilla Beans
Using sharp scissors, cut each of your vanilla beans up the center leaving attached at the end.
- Soak beans
Place 3 beans per 8-ounce bottle. Fill bottle completely with vodka ensuring beans are completely submerged.
- Soak
Replace lid on bottle and store in a cool dark place for at least 6 weeks. The longer it’s stored the darker the liquid will become. After six weeks your extract is ready but feel free to leave it longer!
Tie a pretty bow and a label if you’d like and you’re ready to give a memorable gourmet gift!
For some other DIY gift ideas check out these posts:
Lana says
hi, I cant use Vodka can I use any other non alcoholic liquid.
Melissa says
Unfortunately Lana I can’t think of any other way to make it than with alcohol, I’m sorry not to be more help. ~Melissa
DesignedByBH says
I really like this idea and your instructions are perfectly simple! Pinning and probably making for Christmas gifts! Thanks for sharing!
Melissa Riker says
Yay! I’m so glad you like it!! Thanks so much!
Heather @ Southern State of Mind says
Girl! At first I was all- why aren’t you drinking that Grey Goose?!?!? LOL. But now I am convinced it is a good use for it! Love this, I am sure it smells so amazing!
Melissa Riker says
lol Heather-you have to buy two bottles, one or yourself and one for making gifts!! 🙂
Jamie says
What a great idea! I’ve got to try this {for myself} 😉
Hugs,
Jamie @ somuchbetterwithage.com
Melissa Riker says
Thanks Jamie, I think once you try it you’ll be a convert! Have a great Friday!!
Christine at First Home Love Life says
Love this! I have all the ingredients to make my own right here and didn’t even know it! What a great gift idea too! I’m totally doing this for my MIL who is an avid baker, she’ll love it!
Vanessa says
I’ve wanted to try this for years. What a pretty gift!
Melissa Riker says
Thanks Vanessa!
Jeannie says
I looked for vanilla beans and found they are not inexpensive. This is truly a very nice gift!
Melissa Riker says
Yes, Jeannie, when I bought the beans at my grocery store they were expensive but online if you buy a larger quantity (like if you’re going to make multiple gifts) it’s much more economical. Plus, don’t forget like a previous commenter said, you can add in more vodka as you use it to keep it going!!
jenny@birdsandsoap says
Someone gifted homemade vanilla to me last Christmas and I love it! She told me that I can add more vodka to the beans as it is depleted and it will continue to produce great Vanilla! I love the bottles you chose!
Melissa Riker says
Yes! I forgot to mention that in my post, it’s like the gift that keeps on giving!!
keri @ shaken together says
I need to get on the ball and get this bottled – what a cool gift idea for Christmas!! Pinned!
Melissa Riker says
Isn’t it a fun idea Keri and so easy! Thanks!!