Cute amber bottles with a label and brown string are ready to be filled with homemade vanilla extract.

There’s something so fun about giving homemade gifts, especially when they’re both beautiful and useful in the kitchen. Making your own vanilla extract is one of those simple projects that feels luxurious and thoughtful. With just two ingredients—vanilla beans and vodka—you can create a custom gift that any baker 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.

This post seemed perfect for sharing as a Sunday Favorite with Mary Ann and Cindy. We made this just as we were about to leave for three weeks in France. The rest of my Sunday favorites are travel-related!

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.

Cost-effective over time

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

Vodka and tall weck jars for making homemade vanilla extract.

Whole vanilla bean pods for making homemade vanilla extract.

High quality whole 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 (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)

On a wooden cutting board is a woman slicing vanilla bean pods for making homemade vanilla extract.

Whole vanilla bean pods are in tall, narrow glass jars.

Slice vanilla beans lengthwise just to expose the vanilla pods
Add the beans to the bottles
Fill with vodka (or chosen alcohol) to cover the top of the beans
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)
Let age for at least 6 months, ideally 12 for the best flavor

How long does it take to make vanilla extract?

Minimum: 6 months
Ideal: 12+ months for a more intense flavor
Shake the bottle every few weeks
The hardest part is being patient 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 a great gift

All the supplies you need for making and gifting homemade vanilla extract.

Round labels are punched out for making gift tags and attaching them to small bottles of vanilla extract.

Use a pretty glass bottle with a cork or screw cap
Add a simple label or handwritten tag with the date it will be ready
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.

More Sunday Favorites

Cord Organizer and Portable iPhone Charger

Mary Ann gave me a travel cord organizer, and it fits every single charger. I love having all my chargers in one place. I use it at home and, of course, when I travel. She also gave me the new Clutch Pro. If you use maps on your iPhone when traveling, you need a Clutch Pro Charger.

Quince Luggage

Still speaking of travel…we keep adding to our collection of Quince suitcases. They are so well made, and they maneuver through the airport better than any suitcase I have ever used. And they are so well priced. If you need new luggage, try a piece from Quince, and soon you’ll be replacing all your luggage. We love both the carry-on and the check-in bag.

Where to Stay in Provence

We have just arrived in Provence and it’s our second time staying at this Airbnb. If you’re looking for a quiet place to stay and relax, I recommend Maison Achard.

They have thought of everything you would need and more. We plan to spend a lot of time at the pool, having coffee and croissants on the terrace every morning, and lots of exploring. Read this post for our full review. And make sure you are following me on Instagram! I’ll be posting more about this lovely place and area,

Our French Finds

The main reason we are here is to buy for our shop! We are going to flea markets all over France and the shop will be filled with our finds in late June! Follow on Our French Finds Instagram for updates.

Let’s check in with Mary Ann and Cindy!

Classic Casual Home

Cindy Hattersley Design