Vanilla Extract with Vodka

I’m going to show you how to make a vanilla extract recipe with vodka from scratch today using just two ingredients. Make it once and it’ll last a decade or more!

A vanilla extract recipe with vodka is bottled and on a counter next to another bottle.

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Several years ago I learned how to make vanilla extract and it was game changing. If you’re a serious baker like I am, you’ll know that having real vanilla on hand is crucial. Vanilla elevates any sweet recipe by enhancing and balancing all the flavors. Imitation vanilla is just not the same regardless of what is slapped on a label at the grocery store.

Pure vanilla extract is brewed over months to develop a deep vanilla flavor using real vanilla pods. They’re sliced open to expose all the grainy seeds, placed in a container with alcohol, and the alcohol soaks up all the vanilla goodness to create an extract over time.

I prefer to use vodka for making vanilla extract simply because it’s cheap and easy to find. You’ll soon see that there are other liquor options too, though.

The alcohol bakes right out of it once the extract is added to a recipe. Most recipes only use 1-3 teaspoons for an entire batch anyway, so don’t think you’ll be getting tipsy anytime soon.

Super simple, right?!

However, there are a few tips and tricks you’ll need in order to successfully brew really good vanilla extract.

Today, I’m going to share my favorite way to make this delicious concoction that’ll serve you well over the years… No more adding it to the grocery list any longer!

Now, let’s make a vanilla extract recipe with vodka, because no one ever made a decent cake without some alcohol added into it.

Vanilla Extract Recipe with Vodka

Which alcohol is best for brewing vanilla extract?

Use what you have available to you at a decent price. Now is not the time to reach for top shelf liquor. Since it is for vanilla extract and not for drinking, go with the most affordable option. When you run low on the extract you make, you will just keep refilling it with the alcohol of your choice to keep it brewing over time. I like to replace mine with more alcohol once the brewed extract gets down to the vanilla pods in the bottle. This will always keep it going, and it prevents mold from growing. Here is what you can use.

Vodka (smooth and pure)
Bourbon (slightly sweet and smokey)
Brandy (slightly sweet)
Rum (smooth and pure)

What type of vanilla beans should I use for vanilla extract?

There are a few types that will work well for vanilla extract. Purchase them once to split open and you won’t need to purchase anymore unless you want to make another bottle for gifting. Grade B vanilla beans work well for extracts (while Grade A are typically reserved for using fresh). Here are some I recommend:

Madagascar (reliable, perfect for extract, fair price)
Ugandan (high in vanillin and great price)
Comoros (deep, rich undertones)

A vanilla extract recipe uses vodka and vanilla pods which are shown in a bottle as a woman holds it up in a white kitchen.

Tools | vanilla extract recipe with vodka

Flip-top glass bottle with lid (I use this one HERE)

Paring knife

Cutting board

Liquid measuring cup

Ingredients | vanilla extract recipe with vodka

10+ vanilla pods (I use these HERE and highly recommend them)

4 cups vodka (or other liquor of your choice)

Pure vanilla extract sits bottled on the top shelf of a kitchen open shelves.

Steps | vanilla extract recipe with vodka

1. Start by splitting the vanilla pods lengthwise from end to end with a knife. Do not remove any of the paste. Add these to a tall glass bottle.

2. Next add vodka to a liquid measuring cup for an easier pouring spout. Pour this into the bottle of vanilla beans. Be sure to cover the vanilla beans fully to prevent mold.

3. Place lid on top and gently shake. Store in a cool, dry area.

4. Gently shake about once a week or so. Extract will be ready for use after it has turned brown and smells of vanilla, after about 3-4 months. Keeps indefinitely.

Tips for Success | vanilla extract recipe with vodka

Always be sure the vanilla pods are covered at all times. This may require you to add vodka after just a few uses depending on how tall the storage bottle is.

Light blocking amber glass bottles like these HERE are another great option for storage, as they allow the vanilla to not be affected by light or temperature a little better than regular glass.

More Baking Recipes

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Easy Bagels with Greek Yogurt

Super Easy Lactation Cookies

Crockpot Apple Crisp

4-Ingredient Popovers