Perpetual Homemade Vanilla Extract
A strong, versatile homemade vanilla extract made with 80-proof vodka and whole vanilla beans. This version is designed as a perpetual bottle: use the extract as it matures, then replenish both alcohol and fresh beans over time so the bottle stays flavorful rather than becoming diluted.
Ingredients
- 750 ml Plain vodka (25.4 fl oz) 40% ABV / 80 proof
- 85-90 g Whole vanilla beans (about 3 oz)
Instructions
Scaling Formula
- Use approximately 1 oz (28 g) vanilla beans for every 8 fl oz (240 mL) alcohol. Weigh the beans rather than counting them because size and moisture vary.
- 120 mL / 4 fl oz alcohol | 14 g / 0.5 oz beans
- 240 mL / 8 fl oz alcohol | 28 g / 1 oz beans
- 475 mL / 16 fl oz alcohol | 56 g / 2 oz beans
- 750 mL alcohol | 85–90 g / about 3 oz beans
- 1 liter alcohol | about 118 g / 4.2 oz beans
- Weigh the vanilla beans. Split each bean lengthwise to expose the interior. The seeds do not need to be scraped out; use the seeds and pods.
- Place the beans into the vodka bottle or a clean glass bottle/jar. Pour off a small amount of vodka first if necessary to make room.
- Make sure all vanilla beans are fully submerged. Close tightly and label the bottle with the starting date and type of alcohol.
- Store in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat. Give the bottle a gentle shake periodically during the early extraction.
- Allow the extract to develop for at least 6 months. For deeper flavor, allow 12 months or longer before judging the finished character.
- For a perpetual bottle, use extract as needed. When replenishing with fresh vodka, also replenish with fresh vanilla beans periodically so repeated topping-off does not dilute the vanilla concentration.
Notes
• 40% ABV equals 80 proof in the United States: multiply the ABV by 2 to calculate proof.
• An inexpensive, neutral 80-proof vodka is ideal. Premium vodka is unnecessary; invest in good vanilla beans instead.
• Keep the beans submerged. If the liquid level drops below the beans, add enough appropriate alcohol to cover them.
• Do not endlessly top the bottle with vodka without adding fresh beans. That gradually weakens the extract.
• Bourbon can also be used for extract, but it contributes caramel, oak and spice. Vodka is the most neutral and versatile choice for a perpetual everyday bottle.
• This is a home culinary preparation. Label clearly and keep it away from children.
• An inexpensive, neutral 80-proof vodka is ideal. Premium vodka is unnecessary; invest in good vanilla beans instead.
• Keep the beans submerged. If the liquid level drops below the beans, add enough appropriate alcohol to cover them.
• Do not endlessly top the bottle with vodka without adding fresh beans. That gradually weakens the extract.
• Bourbon can also be used for extract, but it contributes caramel, oak and spice. Vodka is the most neutral and versatile choice for a perpetual everyday bottle.
• This is a home culinary preparation. Label clearly and keep it away from children.