Shows how to make vanilla extract from start to finish. Includes packaging and tag ideas for gift giving. Definitely a great homemade gift from the heart!
I know we are just starting this glorious season of fall, but I wanted to share this project now so it’s ready for gift giving at Christmas. I wanted to do this last year but did not think ahead (I’m trying to get better at that!) Anyway, here is all the information you need on how to make vanilla extract. This is the perfect, homemade gift to give friends and family for Christmas. I am going to pair mine with a loaf or two of Eggnog Bread. The vanilla takes two months to cure so there is no time to lose. Let’s get started!
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Supplies Needed
- Vodka
- Vanilla Beans
- Scissors or a sharp knife
- Mason jars (optional)
- Bottles
- Tags/ribbon
- (links to all sources at the end)
Vanilla Extract Ratio
3 or 4 vanilla beans per 8 oz. vodka.
How To Make
Wash your bottles and make sure they are very dry inside. Using a sharp knife, slit your vanilla beans lengthwise leaving one end intact. Place 3 or 4 slit vanilla beans in each 8 oz. bottle. (Use 2 beans for a 4 oz. bottle. You may need to cut the beans in half to make them fit.) Using a funnel, pour vodka into each bottle making sure the beans are covered. Cap the bottles securely. Store them in a convenient place because you need to shake each bottle about once a week.
I tried to make the labeling process as easy as possible. I avoided any configuring of stickers because sometimes that can get confusing. Here is a printable for you to make labels.
I printed on card stock and then simply cut them out. I punched two holes in the sides and tied them to my bottles with twine. You could punch one hole in the top of the tag and tie it around the neck of the bottle. Another idea is printing on sticker paper, cutting out and adhering the label directly to the bottle.
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More Ideas For Gift Giving
Just a reminder that this homemade vanilla extract takes two months to cure. Enjoy!
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for the best holiday season ever!
What a fun Christmas gift. I definitely need to try this.
I’ve never thought of making my own vanilla but you can bet I will be doing this very soon. I like the idea of this being a little happy for friends.
Would you consider posting the vanilla tags in an editable format? I LOVE them and made lots of fig preserves I want to use them on for gifts! :)
Ann – I’ve been making for vanilla for several years after purchasing some Rum Vanilla from one of my favorite places in IL. Now I make Rum vanilla, Vodka vanilla and Bourbon vanilla and leave the beans in the bottles. I just place them in a dark cabinet, shake about once a week. As you said – Perfect gift!! Thanks for sharing this idea. Love your quick bread recipes – always a hit and delish!
How cute and what a great gift idea…..brilliant as always Ann.
Love this Ann….thanks!
does it tast and smell like alcohol ?
Hi Susan!
Pure vanilla extract has a strong taste and smell…but since you use it as an ingredient it’s very hard to taste the alcohol.
Wow, Ann! Awesome gifting! Last year I found a lovely bottle at TJMax that already had the vanilla beans in it. I bought that same name brand of vodka and gave it it a good friend who loves to cook a lot. She loved it! I will be printing your tags so I can do this again sometime. Thanks for sharing!
Am so going to make this! Ordering the bottles and beans now. Thank you so much for the instructions, tags and links! You’re the best!
This is AWESOME, Ann!!! I love this idea! Love your labels too:) Thanks for sharing this recipe!