How to Make Natural Vanilla Extract at Home

Making your own vanilla extract at home is a simple, cost-effective, and enjoyable way to add a personal touch to your recipes. It's also a great gift idea for cooking enthusiasts.

How to Make Natural Vanilla Extract at Home Using Alcohol

Vanilla extract is a staple ingredient in many recipes, from desserts to beverages. If you're tired of buying expensive extracts at the supermarket or simply want to experiment in the kitchen, you can prepare your own natural vanilla extract at home. Not only is it easy, but it also ensures that your extract is pure and free from undesirable additives. Follow this simple guide to make your own homemade vanilla extract.

Why Make Your Own Homemade Vanilla Extract?

There are several benefits to making your own vanilla extract:

• Superior Quality: You control the quality of the ingredients, ensuring you use real vanilla beans.

• Cost-Effective: While the initial purchase of vanilla beans can be expensive, homemade extract is often more economical in the long term.

• Customization: You can adjust the strength and flavor of your extract according to your preferences.

Ingredients and Equipment Needed

To make natural vanilla extract, you will need:

• 5 to 6 quality vanilla beans (to buy the best vanilla, click HERE)

• 250 ml of alcohol (vodka, rum, or whiskey – choose a neutral or lightly flavored alcohol according to your preference)

• An airtight glass jar or a dark 250 ml bottle

• A sharp knife

Preparation Steps

1. Choose the Vanilla Beans: Opt for fresh, plump, and shiny vanilla beans. Avoid dry or brittle beans. (Our best beans from organic farming in the Comoros available HERE).
2. Prepare the Vanilla Beans: Using a knife, split each vanilla bean lengthwise to release the aromatic seeds inside. You can also cut the beans into 2-3 cm pieces for faster extraction.
3. Sterilize the Container: Thoroughly wash and sterilize your glass jar or bottle to prevent any contamination.
4. Mix the Ingredients: Place the prepared vanilla beans in the jar. Pour the chosen alcohol over them, ensuring the beans are completely submerged.
5. Seal and Shake: Seal the jar tightly and shake it gently to mix.
6. Let it Steep: Store the jar in a cool, dark place. Let it steep for at least 8 weeks, shaking the jar lightly once a week. The longer it steeps, the richer and more aromatic the extract will become. Ideally, 3 to 6 months will provide a more intense flavor.
7. Filter and Use (Optional): If you prefer an extract without particles, you can strain it through a sieve or cheesecloth before transferring it to a dark bottle for storage.

Tips and Variations

• Choice of Alcohol: Vodka is often chosen for its neutrality, but rum and whiskey add a unique and complementary touch to the vanilla flavor.

• Double Extraction: For an even more concentrated extract, add more vanilla beans after a few months or continue adding alcohol as you use the extract.

• Reuse the Beans: Don't discard the beans once the extract is finished. They can be reused to make a second batch, although it will be less potent.

How to Store and Use Your Homemade Vanilla Extract

Store your homemade vanilla extract in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight. As long as it is well sealed, your extract can last for years and improve over time.
Use your homemade vanilla extract in all your favorite recipes: cookies, cakes, creams, ice creams, cocktails, and much more. You will enjoy the richness of the natural aroma, bringing a touch of sophistication to your culinary creations.