Try Making Homemade Vanilla Extract for Fun Holiday Gifting

This year, try making homemade vanilla extract to give as gifts to your friends for the holidays. There is something so fun about giving homemade gifts, especially when they’re both beautiful and useful in the kitchen. And, most of the French dessert recipes that I enjoy call for vanilla extract.

Making your own vanilla extract is one of those simple projects that’s so rewarding. With just two ingredients—vanilla beans and vodka—you can create a custom gift that anyone who enjoys baking will appreciate. The only catch? It takes time to develop that deep, rich flavor we all love. That’s why now is the perfect time to start a batch if you’re thinking ahead to the holiday season.

Why make your own vanilla extract?

Not only is homemade vanilla extract incredibly easy to make (we’re talking five minutes of hands-on time), but it’s also much more cost-effective in the long run. Bottled in a pretty jar with some ribbon and a handwritten label, it’s the kind of thing your friends and family will actually use. And, they’ll probably request it again next year.

Better quality and flavor than store-bought

Most grocery store vanilla extracts are diluted and sometimes include additives like corn syrup, caramel coloring, or imitation vanilla. When you make your own, you’re in control of the ingredients. And you’ll be able to notice the difference immediately. It has a rich, pure vanilla flavor that literally makes everything from cookies to custards taste better.

High-quality vanilla extract is expensive—especially if you bake often. While vanilla beans can be expensive upfront, one batch of homemade extract yields a significant amount and can be replenished repeatedly with fresh alcohol as needed.

Customizable (alcohol type, bean variety)

I prefer to use vodka when making vanilla extract. However, if you love the warm flavor of bourbon or the sweetness of rum, feel free to use it. There is no right or wrong way of making it. You can choose your favorite base to complement the vanilla for the way you like it. You can also play with different bean varieties—Madagascar for a classic flavor, Tahitian for floral notes, or Mexican for a bolder, spicier twist.

Thoughtful, personal, homemade gift

There’s something special about a gift made by hand. Vanilla extract feels luxurious, yet it’s practical—something your friends and family will actually use. Add a handwritten label and a simple ribbon, and you’ve got a hostess gift that feels personal, meaningful, and festive.

What you’ll need for making your own homemade vanilla extract

• High qualitywhole vanilla beans (I use Madagascar vanilla beans but you can use Mexican or Tahitian vanilla beans)
• A bottle of vodka is most common, but bourbon or rum are great too
• Glass bottles or jars with lids that seal (I have found a taller, narrower bottle works best for aging the vanilla but you can cut the beans in half and use shorter, wider bottles)
• Sharp knife
• Small funnel (optional but helpful when pouring into smaller bottles)

How to make DIY vanilla extract (it’s the easiest thing)

1. Slice vanilla beans lengthwise just to expose the vanilla pods.
2. Add the beans to the bottles.
3. Fill with vodka (or chosen alcohol) to cover the top of the beans, and secure the lid.
4. Give the bottle a good shake and store in a cool, dark place (keep out of direct sunlight and shake the bottles every few days).
5. Let age for at least 6 months, ideally 12 for the best flavor (at room temperature.

How long does it take to make vanilla extract and let it age?

• Minimum: 6 months
• Ideal: 12+ months for a more intense flavor
• Shake the bottle every few weeks
• The hardest part is exercising patience for at least six months while it ages

When should I start making it so that it’s ready for holiday gifts?

• Start in May or June for holiday gifting
• Make extra so you have some for your own use!

Here are a few ideas for some great gifts

• Use a pretty glass bottle with a cork or screw cap
• Add a simple label/sticker or handwritten tag
• Include a recipe card for cookies or cake using vanilla extract
• Tie on a vanilla bean with twine for a rustic look

How long will homemade vanilla extract last?

Homemade vanilla extract will last for at least five years, and according to some, indefinitely. While it may not spoil in the traditional sense, as some food or dairy products do, it may lose flavor over an extended period of time. However, for those of us who enjoy baking, we’ll be lucky if there’s any left after six months.

I haven’t tried it, but I’ve read that you can reuse the vanilla beans for making a new batch of vanilla extract. I will be trying it once my vanilla extract has aged and I will update with the results.

Here are a few fun recipes from our sister site for the bottles of homemade vanilla extract you keep for yourself

• Flourless chocolate cake with créme Anglaise
• Salted butter chocolate chunk shortbread cookies
• Holiday spritz butter cookies