Homemade Cognac Vanilla Extract

Pure vanilla extract can be pricey. Some people cheap out and use clear vanilla extract or imitation vanilla extract, but the real stuff is worth the splurge—and the effort if you want to make it at home

I’ve been crafting homemade vanilla extract for years because it’s easy and it only calls for two ingredients (I now have my own line of vanilla—add it to your cart if you want to skip the step-by-step tutorial!). However easy it is to make, vanilla is a complex ingredient. 

What is vanilla extract?

Vanilla extract is made by taking a split vanilla bean (or vanilla pod) and soaking it in alcohol for an extended period of time. Pretty easy, right? It’s the type of beans that makes it complex. 

What are the best beans for homemade vanilla extract?

People rave about Mexican vanilla beans, but for this homemade vanilla extract recipe, I prefer to use Madagascar vanilla beans (they're actually Madagascar Bourbon vanilla beans. If you come across "bourbon vanilla" it means it's made from a Madagascar vanilla bean). They have a floral aroma with a unique cherry-chocolate vanilla flavor that you can't get with imitation vanilla. For a bolder and slightly smoky flavor, try Ugandan vanilla beans. Tahitian vanilla beans have a floral aroma with tones of ripe fruit; they are the perfect beans for when you are looking for cherry-chocolate, licorice, and caramel notes in a baked good. 

What kind of alcohol is used for vanilla extract?

I know what you’re thinking, and no, you don’t steep vanilla pods in a liter of rubbing alcohol from the drugstore. You can use the alcoholic beverage of your choice. I prefer cognac, but vodka or spiced rum work, just don’t use a flavored vodka.

Does vanilla extract go bad?

If you store your vanilla in a dark, cool place like a cabinet, vanilla can last for a very long time. However, for the best flavor, you should use your vanilla within two years.

Is vanilla extract gluten-free?

Generally speaking, vanilla extract is gluten-free. Vanilla beans are naturally gluten-free, so if you want to make sure your vanilla extract is gluten-free, the alcoholic beverage you use should be gluten-free.

You can really taste the difference when using pure vanilla extract as an ingredient for baking. There’s no comparison. Plus, your bottles of homemade extract make great gifts! 

You can really taste the difference when using homemade vanilla as an ingredient for baking. There’s no comparison. Plus, your bottles of homemade extract make great gifts!