Save Money Making DIY Homemade Vanilla with 2 Ingredients!

The cost of vanilla extract is so high, and it’s super simple to make your own with just two ingredients!  But, you might be surprised how many variations there are on those two ingredients.  I spent a long time researching it all before I made my first batch a few years ago.

I’ll tell you more details about the ratios of each ingredient and the time-frame needed, but the basic recipe is to let vanilla beans soak in vodka for weeks or (even better!) months.  You won’t be slaving away in the kitchen for this.  It’s super easy!

Scroll to the very bottom for the “quick recipe” if you don’t want to read all the details I’ve given.

I was inspired to post this since we can get super cheap vodka now.  Get a batch (or two) going right away and it will be ready in time for your holiday baking or gift-giving.

This post contains affiliate links.  I make a small commission if you make a purchase using one of my links.  Thanks!

NOTE:  The Amazon link that was here prior to 9/14/20 got changed … well, the description did.  When I linked to it, it said they were 4 oz bottles.  They have now updated the description to 2 oz bottles.  If you didn’t get 4 oz bottles, contact the seller!  Now, the links have been changed to a new 4 oz bottle link, so there shouldn’t be any issues, but make sure the description (and what you get!) are 4 oz bottles.

I just got another batch (kind of two!) going on August 26, 2020!

#1 — I bought two bottles of vodka & two 10-pks of Grade B vanilla beans.

#2 — I used five 4 oz jars with two beans in each.  (Cut lengthwise, then in half, so 8 pieces in each jar.)  I have about 5 oz of leftover vodka.

Shake it up to see the inside
of the vanilla beans swirl around!

#3 — Then, I put the other 10 beans (cut lengthwise) in an almost-full bottle of vodka (poured a tiny bit out to fit beans).  This won’t be super strong, but I plan to let it sit for months before I use it.  If you want it strong, you can easily double that and still be in the range of what people recommend.  I’ve seen lower recommended and much higher.  It’s really all over the place, but I went on the low side of the range.

How much does vodka cost right now?

The general price for cheap vodka is about $6-$9 for a 1.75 L bottle.

If you want to really stock up on vanilla or will use some of the vodka for something else, it’s hard to beat this deal at Fry’s now.  If you use Ibotta, it’s like paying $3.49 for each 750 ml bottle when you buy two.

As of September 14, 2020 this deal is still going at Fry’s!

♥ Smirnoff Vodka (750 ml)   $8.99 at Fry’s (Thanks, Phebe!)
Buy 2, Save $4 (limit 5 rewards, unsure of ending date)
$3.50/1 Ibotta (limit 2, mobile app, future cash back – details here) (Expires 8/27)
Ibotta deals can disappear at any time, so check before making purchase.
Final price:  $6.99 each when you buy 2 + possible Ibotta cash back (♥ ♥ $3.49 after cash back ♥ ♥)

If you don’t want two bottles, here’s another great option for cheap vodka at Fry’s.

The smaller bottles (375 ml = 12.7 oz) are only $2.78 each.  The larger bottle (750 ml = 25.4 oz) is $5.99.  Keep in mind that buying vanilla beans in bulk is cheaper, so making one small bottle isn’t as cost-effective.

What kind of alcohol is best for making vanilla?

Vodka is the most recommended alcohol for homemade vanilla.  You can also use rum, brandy, or bourbon, but for traditional tasting vanilla use vodka.

Everything I read said it didn’t matter how cheap it was.  I won’t argue with that, especially since the finished product worked great in all my baking.

Glass jars are most often suggested, but I made my most recent batch in a plastic vodka bottle and it’s holding up fine.  However, if there isn’t a huge price difference, you may want to go with a glass bottle unless you’re afraid of breakage.

What ratio of beans to vodka do you need for making vanilla?

The research I did was all over the place.  Since I like to save money when I can, I decided to try the lower end of the suggested number of beans and a whole bottle of vodka, so nothing would be wasted.

Suggestions seem to range from 3-6 beans per 8 oz.  That’s one cup or about 240 ml of vodka.

I used 10 beans (since that’s the quantity many are sold in) and a 750 ml bottle of vodka.  If you want to go on the higher end of the range, use up to 20 beans.

My first batch (10 beans in 750 ml) was not super dark or strong after about 8 weeks, but it smelled and tasted delicious in everything I used it for.  But, I’d call it on the weaker side.  Go with more if you want it strong!

Even with store-bought vanilla, I almost always added a little more than a recipe calls for.  I still do that, and I didn’t notice a difference in anything I’ve made with the vanilla I make now.

The longer the vodka sat with the beans in it, the stronger the vanilla flavor got, but I’d still never call it super dark or strong.

If you don’t have 2-3 months to wait or want it really dark/strong, I’d go with more beans.  Ideally, if you’re scrimping on the beans, allow even more time for the flavor to be enhanced.

Leaving the beans in the bottle as you use it will also keep making it more concentrated as time goes on and some of it gets used.

What kind of vanilla beans do I need for making vanilla?

For the most traditional vanilla flavor at an affordable price, you will want Madagascar/Bourbon Grade B vanilla beans. (Amazon has great prices for buying in bulk.  Careful, they throw some Tahitian options in there and you may not want those.)

The basic choices for vanilla beans are Madagascar (also called Bourbon), Tahitian, and Mexican.  Most everyone agrees that the most common tasting vanilla comes from Madagascar beans, so that’s what I got.  I wasn’t disappointed with the results!

All my research revealed a consensus that Grade B is cheaper and better for extract.  I really don’t think you’ll mess anything up with Grade A.  You’ll just pay more.

What’s the difference between Grade A & Grade B vanilla beans?

Grade A vanilla beans are referred to as “prime” or “gourmet” and have 30% moisture.  They look more oily and plump.  Grade A beans are able to infuse the flavor into a recipe faster since they aren’t as dry.  The flavorful center may be scraped out and used in recipes.  Chefs prefer this when creating food that needs a quick boost of flavor and won’t be soaking for a long time.

Grade B vanilla beans are referred to as “extraction grade” and have 20% moisture.  They are more dried looking and won’t be as uniform in size or shape.  These have a more concentrated flavor, though it takes longer to get the flavor from the bean.  The insides are usually dry.  It’s perfect for infusing the rich vanilla flavor into the vodka over a long period of time, especially when slit down the middle to expose more surface area.

How much do vanilla beans cost?

The price of vanilla beans can vary quite a bit.  There are different varieties, sold in different quantities.

If you go to the grocery store or somewhere like Walmart, you’ll probably pay $5-$12 for ONE bean.  They are probably Grade A, but you don’t need those.  Order Grade B online!

The most standard quantity seems to be a 10-ct package.  The deals can vary, but I’ve found the best deals on Amazon or eBay.

Right now, this 10-ct package of Madagascar vanilla beans seems to be the best deal on Amazon.

If you want more, this 30-ct package on eBay is a good price, but they are shorter than Amazon, so I’m not sure how much of a better deal they really are.

You can also do your own search when you’re ready to buy, but be careful!

Even if you search for “Madagascar vanilla beans” some other varieties will slip in there.  Make sure you’re getting what you want and don’t get some that are miscategorized or “sponsored” results that were thrown in the mix.

How do you prepare beans for making vanilla?

Your goal is to expose more of the goodness inside so that the most flavor can transfer to the vodka.

Take a knife or scissors and cut down the middle of the bean, lengthwise.  I think scissors are safer and easier since the beans are pretty dry and slicing the thin bean isn’t an easy task.

You can end up with two pieces from each bean or just expose the middle all the way up and keep the top attached.  Either way will work, but I kept mine attached at the top.  I’m not sure why I do that.  Next time, I’ll probably fully separate them.

If you’re using a smaller bottle you may need to cut the bean in half.

Place the cut vanilla beans inside the vodka and let them start soaking.  (See the note below if you, ultimately, want the vanilla in smaller bottles.)

How long does it take to make homemade vanilla?

You will find different answers to the suggested amount of time to make vanilla, but the “safe” minimum seems to be about 8 weeks, though some wait 6-12 months.

The color will gradually get darker as time goes on.  Give the bottle a shake every week or two to help disperse the flavor from the beans.

The longer the beans sit the more dark and flavorful your vanilla will become, so I leave the beans in after it’s “done” and I begin using the vanilla.  I don’t dispose of the beans until the last drop of vanilla is gone.

Can you reuse vanilla beans when making vanilla?

I’ve read that it’s safe to reuse your vanilla beans, though the vanilla will be weaker the next time.  You’ll probably need to add new beans or do a smaller batch to get the desired flavor.

Since I leave my beans in until I’ve used the last drop of vanilla, I just start over with new beans so I have a new batch ready when I run out of vanilla.

You can also take your “used” beans and make vanilla sugar or paste.  Read the comments below for more on that or ask Google to help you out.  I’ve never tried it.

Should you strain your homemade vanilla?

Some particles do make their way from the bean since you slice it open.

I prefer to leave the small specks in there.  To me, that’s pure vanilla goodness!  I figure they just add extra flavor.

But, if you don’t want specs to show in your white frosting (or whatever), you could use a cheesecloth to strain out the little black specks.

How do you get vanilla into smaller bottles?

Use a small kitchen funnel to get your vodka or finished vanilla into smaller bottles.

I suggest you divide the beans and make the vanilla in each bottle if you know you’ll want smaller bottles for gifts or convenience.  (This set of 15 jars on Amazon is a good price and comes with a funnel & more.)  If you do that, you own’t have to transfer it later.

Note:  Don’t go with less than 1.5 beans per jar, but 2+ would be better.  I’m not sure 1.5 will be great since there is some variation (size & quality) with each Grade B bean.  You may have an inferior bean in one jar that another bean can’t compensate for in a larger container.  That’s my theory, though I’ve only made vanilla in a large jar and transferred vanilla to a smaller jar … and learned the hard way it’s not ideal!  I just started 4 oz bathes with 2 beans each and will see what happens.

If you don’t start making the vanilla in the smaller bottles you’ll have a problem transferring beans into the smaller jar. That is assuming you want the flavor to continue getting stronger or the unique touch of a whole bean in there if you’re giving it as a gift.

I tried tweezers, but mine weren’t long enough.  I tried to kind of stab them with a knife and pull/push them against the sides . . . and failed.  I tried to start to pour it and then grab the beans with the tweezers.  It semi-worked but was a little risky.

I settled on pouring the finished liquid (extract) into a measuring cup.  That allowed me to turn the bottle upside down and easily reach for the vanilla beans with my fingers or tweezers.  Then, I cut them in half to fit in the smaller jars.

Next, I used a funnel to get the liquid into the smaller containers, slowly pouring from the measuring cup.

An added problem with not starting the vanilla in the small jars was that it was hard to get the little specks of the vanilla bean into a bottle.  I used my clean finger and collected them off the bottom/sides of the measuring cup and kind of wiped them into the small bottles, hoping to not lose the added flavor.

Basically, if you’re going to transfer the vanilla to a different container, you’ll have a pain at the end.  You may want to equally distribute your beans when you begin to avoid a hassle later.

What size/type bottles should you use for homemade vanilla?

For smaller gifts, the 4 oz glass bottles are a nice size, but you can use whatever size container you like.  Make sure the lid seals tightly so it doesn’t evaporate or get contaminated.

This set of 4 oz glass bottles on Amazon is a good price.  It has a poly cone insert that gives it a tight seal.  It also comes with a funnel and chalk stickers for labeling the jars.  Perfect for gift-giving!

If you aren’t worried about using exactly one bottle of vodka and don’t mind having bottles leftover, put two beans (4 pieces when slit in half) in each 4 oz bottle then fill it with vodka.  If you want it stronger, go with more.

How do you store homemade vanilla?

Store vanilla in a cool, dark place like a cabinet or pantry.  Do not freeze it or refrigerate it.

How long does vanilla extract last?

Everything I read points to vanilla being good for “many years” or “forever.”

If stored in a sealed container in a cool, dark place you can plan to use it until it’s gone.  Keep in mind that it’s alcohol so it can evaporate over time, but it won’t happen fast if it’s well sealed.

Of course, if you notice a foul smell or new consistency, something may have contaminated it.  Dispose of it and get a new batch going, or drag yourself to the grocery store for some fresh vanilla if you need it right away.

Is it worth it to make your own vanilla?  How much does it cost?

You will save money by making your own vanilla and it’s so simple.  However, if you don’t use much vanilla and don’t plan to give it away, it may be cheaper to just buy a small bottle every few years.

Your biggest savings will come in making a larger quantity and buying in bulk.  Buying only one or two beans is not cost-effective.  You really need to buy a bulk pack of vanilla beans.  Unless you have other uses for the leftover vodka and/or beans, it may not be worth making a small bottle.

For a price reference, right now pure vanilla extract is mostly in the range of about $2.50 – $5 per ounce depending on where you buy it, the brand, and the size you get.

A cheap bottle of Vodka is usually in the $6-$8 range.

Vanilla beans can vary greatly in price.  Currently, they seem to be in the $15+ range for 10 Madagascar beans.

You can get away with 10 beans in a 750 ml (25+ oz) bottle of vodka if you aren’t worried about it being super strong.  You can start here and add more next time (or even later) if you don’t think it’s enough.

Your cost could be less than $25 for a big bottle.  Even if you paid only $2.50 per ounce, buying a bottle that size could cost you over $60, and that’s on the low end of what vanilla sells for.

If you want to use more beans you’ll still be well under the $60.  You could even double them and pay about $40.

Update:  Right now (8/22/20) the price of a 16 oz bottle at Costco is $24.89.  That comes out to about $1.56/oz which is much cheaper than buying it almost anywhere else.

What’s the easiest way to make vanilla?  Just tell me a recipe, please!

Grade B Madagascar/Bourban vanilla beans — use 3-6
Vodka — 1 cup / 8 oz / 240 ml (approx)

Figure out how much vodka you’re using to determine how many beans you’ll need.  You can make the batch as big or small as you want.

If you want to save money and have more time to wait, try the low range of vanilla beans.  If you want it really strong, have less time, and are willing to spend more money … go for more.

If you want to save money and have plenty of time, try buying a 10-pk of beans and using a 750 ml bottle of vodka.  Again, more would be “better” but I was happy with my results with 10 beans.  But, it’s not a super-strong vanilla.  Keep that in mind.

Or, if you aren’t worried about using exactly one bottle of vodka, put two beans (4 pieces when slit in half) in each 4 oz bottle then fill it with vodka.

Take scissors (safer & easier) or a knife and cut the beans in half lengthwise.  Trim the length of the beans if it’s needed to fit into the selected container.

Put sliced vanilla beans directly into vodka bottle, pouring some out if needed to fit the beans.

Or, pour vodka into containers and put beans into them.

Tighten the lid and give the bottle a shake.

Shake it every week or two or whenever you remember.

Store in a dark, cool place for at least 8 weeks, preferably longer.

Leaving the beans in after you begin to use it will only make it better!

Enjoy!

Homemade vanilla is so simple to make, saves you money, tastes great, and makes a unique gift!

Come back in a few months and let us know what you think of your batch!

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