Vanilla extract is a baking essential, lending warmth and depth to so many baked treats. Since I began making my own vanilla extract, I’ve noticed a big difference in the flavor of my baked goods—they’re richer, more aromatic, and delicious. This simple recipe uses only two ingredients, making it one of the easiest, most rewarding staples to create at home.

About This Recipe

Like many of my great kitchen discoveries, my journey into making vanilla extract began with Ina Garten. When I first heard about homemade vanilla extract, I was skeptical – surely this was some complicated process best left to professionals? But after diving into research, I discovered this culinary secret hiding in plain sight: crafting premium vanilla extract requires nothing more than vanilla beans, vodka, a clean jar, and patience.

Homemade Vanilla Extract

Recipe by Kristie BookerDifficulty: Easy

Homemade vanilla extract is a simple, two-ingredient recipe that adds warmth and depth to baked goods, making them richer and more aromatic. Inspired by Ina Garten, I discovered that creating premium vanilla extract at home is easy—just combine vanilla beans and vodka in a jar, and let time work its magic.

Ingredients

• 8 good vanilla beans

• 8 oz. high quality vodka

• 1 clean glass jar

• Patience

Directions

• Split vanilla beans down the middle. Place in jar, pour in vodka, and shake occasionally during the 6 month steeping period. Vanilla extract will be good at 6 months, but it will be amazing at 12 months.