Kittencal's Homemade Vanilla Recipe

Craft your own gourmet vanilla extract at home! This incredibly easy recipe is far more economical than store-bought options, and the flavor? Unparalleled. Simply steep vanilla beans in vodka for at least two months (six months for an intensely rich flavor) and enjoy the superior taste in your baking and cooking. Discover the secret to unbelievably delicious vanilla, made with love (and a little patience!).

Prep Time 5 mins

Cook Time 86400 mins

Calories 513.7 kcal

Protein 0g

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The Forktionary Kitchen Team

Adapted from Food.com, then tested & standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Kittencal's Homemade Vanilla

2 vanilla beans
2 cups high-quality vodka

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How to Make Kittencal's Homemade Vanilla

Carefully cut 2 vanilla beans lengthwise with a sharp knife.
Divide the vanilla beans evenly between two clean, narrow-necked bottles (approximately 1 cup capacity each).
If necessary, cut the vanilla beans crosswise to ensure they fit comfortably into the bottles.
Pour 1 cup of high-quality vodka into each bottle, completely submerging the vanilla beans.
Seal the bottles tightly and store them in a cool, dark place for at least 2 months. For a richer, more intense flavor, allow them to steep for 4-6 months.
Once steeped, your homemade vanilla extract is ready to use! The longer it steeps, the more potent the flavor will be.