The Best Homemade Vanilla Extract by Little House Big Barn

The best homemade vanilla extract by Little House Big Barn! Vanilla extract is a baking essential, but have you ever wondered what’s really in that little bottle from the store? Making your own homemade vanilla extract isn’t just easy—it’s also fun, cost-effective, and produces a richer, more flavorful extract.

Plus, there’s something so satisfying about knowing you made it yourself! Here at Little House Big Barn, we’re all about simple, homemade goodness, and this vanilla extract recipe is a staple in our kitchen.

Why Make Your Own Vanilla Extract?

Making your own homemade vanilla extract comes with a range of benefits that make it worth the effort. Here are some of the top perks:

1. Superior Flavor-Homemade vanilla extract is richer, deeper, and more flavorful than most store-bought versions. By choosing high-quality beans and letting them infuse for months, you get a pure extract that elevates your baking to a whole new level.

2. No Additives or Fillers– Unlike many commercial extracts that include artificial flavors, sugars, or additives, your homemade version is 100% natural. It’s just vanilla beans and alcohol—nothing else!

3. Cost-Effective– While the initial cost of vanilla beans may seem high, a single batch can last for years and is much cheaper per ounce than premium store-bought vanilla. Plus, you can reuse the beans to start another batch, stretching your investment even further.

4. Customizable– Homemade vanilla extract is entirely customizable. You can experiment with different types of vanilla beans (Madagascar, Tahitian, Mexican) or try infusing them in vodka, bourbon, or rum for unique flavor profiles.

5. Long Shelf Life– Properly made vanilla extract lasts for years, and it even improves with age. As long as the beans stay submerged and the bottle is stored in a cool, dark place, you’ll always have fresh, flavorful vanilla on hand.

6. Sustainable and Eco-Friendly– Making your own extract reduces packaging waste and allows you to source sustainable vanilla beans, supporting ethical farming practices.

7. A Thoughtful Gift– Homemade vanilla extract makes a beautiful, personal gift. Package it in small glass bottles, add a ribbon, and you’ve got a heartfelt present for birthdays, holidays, or housewarmings.

8. Fun and Rewarding– There’s something incredibly satisfying about crafting your own kitchen essentials. Watching the vanilla beans transform into a deep, fragrant extract feels like a small act of magic.

What You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe is that it only requires two ingredients:

• Vanilla Beans: Choose high-quality beans, either Madagascar (classic), Tahitian (fruity), or Mexican (spicy).
• Alcohol: Vodka is the most common choice because it has a neutral flavor, but rum or bourbon adds a unique twist if you’re feeling adventurous.

For supplies, you’ll also need a clean glass jar or bottle with a tight-fitting lid.

Vodka vs. Rum

When it comes to making homemade vanilla extract, choosing between vodka and rum comes down to the flavor you want. Vodka is the classic choice because it has a neutral flavor, letting the vanilla beans truly shine. If you want pure, straightforward vanilla flavor for baking, vodka is your go-to.

On the other hand, rum adds a fun twist! It has its own warm, slightly sweet undertones that complement the vanilla beautifully, making the extract extra rich and complex. Dark rum, in particular, can give your extract a bold, caramel-like depth that’s amazing in cookies or desserts with chocolate.

Both work great, so it’s all about your personal preference—or why not try both and see which you love more?

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Vanilla Beans– Take about 6-8 vanilla beans for every cup of alcohol. Split them lengthwise with a knife, leaving the ends attached. This exposes the flavorful seeds inside while keeping the beans intact.
2. Fill Your Jar– Place the beans in your glass jar or bottle, and pour the alcohol over them until the beans are fully submerged. Seal the jar tightly.
3. Let It Infuse– Here’s where patience pays off! Store the jar in a cool, dark place for at least 8 weeks, giving it a good shake every week. For the best flavor, let it infuse for 6 months or longer—the longer it sits, the deeper the flavor.
4. Strain and Use (Optional)– If you prefer a clear extract, you can strain out the vanilla beans after a few months. Otherwise, leave them in the jar—they’ll continue to infuse the extract over time.

Tips for Success

• Don’t Skimp on Beans: The more beans you use, the stronger and more flavorful your extract will be.
• Label Your Jar: Write the date you started the batch so you can track how long it’s been infusing.
• Reuse the Beans: Once your extract is ready, you can reuse the beans to make a second batch or scrape out the seeds to use in recipes.

How to Use Your Homemade Vanilla Extract

Using your homemade vanilla extract is just like using store-bought, but with way more flavor! Add it to your favorite baked goods—think cookies, cakes, muffins, and brownies—for a rich, authentic vanilla taste.

Stir a splash into pancake or waffle batter, or mix it into homemade frosting for an extra kick. It’s also fantastic in savory recipes that call for a touch of sweetness, like glazes or marinades.

Don’t forget drinks—stir a little into coffee, hot cocoa, or even smoothies for a cozy, aromatic boost. With homemade vanilla extract, a little goes a long way, and it makes everything taste just a bit more special!

Final Thoughts

Homemade vanilla extract is a simple way to elevate your baking and add a personal touch to your kitchen. It’s pure, rich, and bursting with real vanilla flavor—everything that store-bought extract wishes it could be.

So why not give it a try? Start your batch today and experience the joy of homemade vanilla goodness. And if you love this recipe, share it with a friend or leave a comment below—we’d love to hear how your vanilla extract turns out!

Happy baking!
~ Little House Big Barn

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