Make homemade vanilla extract by steeping used vanilla pods in vodka or rum
Save scraped vanilla pods and steep 5–6 pods in a small jar of low-cost vodka or rum in the refrigerator for a couple of months to make vanilla extract.
After scraping out the seeds, don’t throw away the pods. Collect about five or six pods, put them in a small bottle or jar, cover with inexpensive vodka or rum, refrigerate, and let steep for a couple of months to create homemade vanilla extract.
The short version
- Use about 5–6 pods per small jar.
- Steep for a couple of months in the refrigerator.
What you need
- small bottle or jarAny small container that can be sealed.
How to do it
- 1
Save the scraped vanilla pods instead of discarding them.
Collect until you have about 5–6 pods.
Watch this step - 2
Put the pods into a small bottle or jar.
Watch this step - 3
- 4
What goes wrong
Throwing away scraped pods
Save them for extract or vanilla sugar.
Not steeping long enough
Let the pods sit for a couple of months for better extraction.
Why it works
Alcohol extracts remaining aromatic compounds from the pods over time, turning the liquid into vanilla extract.
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How to choose vodka for homemade extracts
Use a mid-range vodka—avoid the cheapest and the most expensive—when making extracts.
How to split a vanilla bean to expose the seeds for extract
Slice a fresh vanilla pod lengthwise to expose the seeds, then cut it in half so it fits in the jar before adding alcohol.