Holiday Gifts: Homemade Vanilla Extract

I love giving gifts. I really do fit in that category of those who love to give more than receive. I mean, I obviously love getting gifts as well-let’s not get crazy here-but I truly love selecting gifts and making them special for the person that I am shopping for.

Sometimes though, a homemade gift is even more fun. Usually a homemade gift for me is something that I make…in the kitchen. I will leave the crafts to Abby and Becca on this blog, and I am nice and cozy just staying in the kitchen. Homemade gifts from the kitchen are so fun, and usually, very well received.

This holiday season, I decided to give something a try that I have been wanting to try for a long time. Homemade Vanilla Extract! Why? Because it’s fun! Also, I love making stuff in my own kitchen so I know exactly what is going into it. Did you know some vanilla extracts have preservatives? Sugar? Corn Syrup? Cr-aazy! This recipe has vanilla beans and vodka. How can you go wrong with that?

It would be very hard to go wrong with that.

Here is the very simple recipe-perfect for gift giving and so pretty to look at!

Homemade Vanilla Extract

You will need:

Decorative bottles or jars

Vanilla Beans*

Vodka (You can also use bourbon, brandy or rum for a more unique vanilla extract flavor)

Make sure bottles or jars are cleaned thoroughly and let dry. Place vanilla beans inside of jar or bottle. The amount depends on how big your container is. A good rule of thumb is for every cup of vodka-3-5 vanilla beans. Fill jar with vanilla beans with vodka. Seal tightly. Let stand for 3-5 weeks in a cool, dark place. As it is sitting, liquid will turn a beautiful amber color. It is late in the game to have fully matured vanilla extract by Christmas, but you can get it started and give out as a gift-just tell the recipient to be patient and give it another two weeks to let the alcohol extract the flavor from the beans before using. The flavor will become more complex over time, so be patient!

*I buy my vanilla beans from Beanilla and love them! They come fresh and fragrant and I think they make the best vanilla extract, as well as french toast, homemade vanilla ice cream, custard…I can go on and on…

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