Making Vanilla Extract at home for a FRACTION of the price! | Bourbon Vanilla & others

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Vanilla Beans: amzn.to/41RGMkw
Flask shaped jars: amzn.to/3RX4zeG
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Indri's Vanilla FB group: / 848812811970139
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[@ashleyaggie19]

All my years of baking and I have never made my own vanilla. I about smacked my leg when I saw how much cheaper and better quality it is homemade. You’ve inspired me to start my own lady, thank you!

[@katherinethegreat508]

For the favors at my wedding my mother and I made 1 oz bottles of vanilla and lemon extract. They were very well received!

[@OrganicMommaGA]

Oooh, Lemon Extract is a delightful idea! Thank you!

[@rentedspace7462]

Oh wow for the lemon did you just use the zest?? I’ll have to google and work out how to make that!!

[@erikas974]

Can we please have the recipe for the lemon extract🫶

[@dmelton8174]

How did you make the lemon extract?

[@Angelina6518]

Excellent idea!

[@marierichards6922]

I’ve never written to anyone before but today I felt I needed to. Been making my own vanilla extract for over ten years. I make it using vodka and the method you do. I enjoyed watching you and have subscribed. Thank you. Oh. I’m 76 yrs old

[@The_Farmers_Table]

Wonderful! Thanks for commenting and subbing!

[@jleaclark]

I’m a member of that group and you will be surprised at the quality of their beans! I make vanilla bean paste from a recipe on their page.

[@jessicajenkins8033]

Fun fact Jess- Costco voldka is actually grey goose. Costco does that with a lot of their liquors. So you actually did get a really good liquor - Thanks for the video and gift idea.

[@ChasMtz420]

This is a myth unfortunately :(

[@stevennicholas5472]

Doubtful, Grey Goose is premium, they would never no-name brand it. A Smirnoff is probably more likely.

[@daniellebene]

I've worked at Costco for 20 years and what you said does have some truth, Kirkland does indeed use Duracell for batteries and stuff like that. But the Kirkland vodka is not Grey Goose.

[@kierancarter8369]

Actually Kirkland is good stuff. Disclosure, I work in the alcohol industry and the stuff we sell to Costco is better than what we sell in the same category. For wine your not getting Napa cabernet in your bag in box but I can pretty much guarantee the quality in their Kirkland Cabernet @ $12.99 is better than what you can by in Bota Box or Black box that comes in at $18.99. If you keep a good eye on things you'll see that this applies to most Kirkland branded products through out the store. Fun fact. Costco is the largest wine and spirits retailer in the US so a supplier would definitely want that volume, no name or not.

[@KenS1267]

Grey Goose is distilled in France. Kirkland Vodka is quite prominently labeled as American. There's a big distiller in Indiana that does a lot of generic brands. I would assume that is the source of Costco's lower end stuff.

[@aliciaspears7847]

You are the first content creater I've ever heard tell people to let it sit for a year. THANK YOU ! This is the right way. Folks, anyone that tells you to throw a couple beans in for 6 weeks, doesn't know what they're talking about.... or their baking sucks lol

[@hugg724]

It does NOT take a year. Watch Shane Clements and educate yourself.

[@aliciaspears7847]

YOU can do it however you like. MY experience has shown me that you get a richness and depth of flavor with the extended time. No need to come on here and be rude.

[@hugg724]

@@aliciaspears7847 Bless your heart! Practice what you preach. YOU are the one saying that one year is the right way when it isn't then say others don't know what they are talking about. You obviously like to tell others to do it your way but don't like others telling you it's wrong 🤣🤣🤣 I have been making extract for 40+ years. Unlike you, I have tried many methods. I KNOW what works because I am not close minded to learning other methods. Have a nice life!

[@jennycakess2840]

I really appreciate how informed you are Jess. You always come prepared. There are some "homesteading" channels that have no clue and it shows. That really bothers me. If you're going to show people how to do something, know what you're doing in the first place. You understand the assignment 😊 Oh, and I just seasoned my first cast iron skillet thanks to you! I made eggs this morning, and they were the best eggs I've ever had 😋

[@lindasuerussell4398]

I agree 100%. That is what I like about Jess also plus she speaks proper English.

[@jennycakess2840]

@@lindasuerussell4398 😊

[@shill4]

She gets on with it also. There are so many that talk too much and really don’t get to the point. I simply don’t have that amount of patience. There are some who I like as a person, but can’t stand to listen to them drone on and on.

[@katie7748]

​@@shill4 Gosh, yes! It's like those online recipe blogs that don't have a "jump to recipe" button. Just get to the point!!

[@Kiuan88]

I love Indri Vanilla! I’ve purchased hundreds of ounces of beans from them and have soooo much vanilla going…some that have been extracting for 3+ years now. We love our vanilla! My favorite alcohol for vanilla so far (I’ve tried dozens) is a sugar cane vodka-Reigncane!

[@lanakane7325]

Me too. The addiction is real.

[@eliwhee]

Where do you purchase your sugar cane vodka-reigncane?

[@Kiuan88]

@@eliwhee I buy it on their website-they ship it straight to my door!

[@leslieeide6721]

Love Indri Vanilla. I lost count at around 400 ounces of alcohol which I learned yield half that once the beans suck it up.

[@YeshuaKingMessiah]

I use cheapest vodka in glass bottles lol

[@ourhomesteadclassroom]

We've been making our own vanilla extract for a few years and also include it in our Christmas gift baskets.Thanks for the much-needed reminder to start my new batch as soon as possible! I was a little late last year, closer to 8mo, instead of 12. We like rum best for ours and have also been experimenting with different bean origins. The first year, we got Madagascar beans on Amazon. But last year, we got to use Mexican beans that my parents purchased straight from the farm, which felt really special. Love to geek out on this sort of thing!! Much appreciate you digging into the nitty gritty more than I've seen on other channels.

[@hetty2974]

Hello what a beautiful idea.just lovely 😊god bless x

[@sooper109]

@ourhomesteadclassroom HI! I love the rum vanilla extract also!!!!

[@karenmcallister7411]

Awesome video. Love it! I started making vanillia extract in September 2023. I found a gentleman on you tube. He had trial tests on liquor and beans. Madagascar Vanilla Beans Grade A seem to be ahead of the game. It's more traditional flavor people are use too. The liquor had different ranges to ppls taste buds. Overall....for traditional Vanilla extract......New Amsterdam vodka and Kirkland vodka Topped the list. These vodkas did not have strong flavors. This allowed the Vanilla to shine thur. Caption morgan plain and coconut rum topped the rum category. For Vanilla Bean Company.....The Vanilla Bean Kings. I was impressed with the testing the gentleman had. I have bottled 5 batches of madagascar vanilla beans with several different liquors. Next year I will taste and see which one I like the best. Like Jess.....some are Christmas presents. Hope this helps someone. Happy new year everyone!

[@kelseymarie.m]

Do you by chance have a link to that video? I love this video for the simplicity of making the extract but I'd also like to dive in a little deeper to different tests done.

[@mitzideluca6427]

I dont know how you attend to everything with this channel, Roots and Refuge, and your family and homestead. Kudos to you lady for all you do!!!! THankful for all you do.

[@nccgolden3626]

I finally got around to making my own vanilla extract. I been wanting to do this for years. My husband was given a bottle of expensive brandy as a thank you gift n then came upon Grade A organic Madagascar Vanilla Beans at Costco ! The brandy had caramel notes i think will be amazing I purchased grade a vanilla beans on Amazon and they were very tiny and not plump. I will try ordering from VanillaPura they offer vanilla beans from many regions and also offer a bulk pricing if you’re willing to wait a little longer for orders to ship out. Oh yes tnx for reminder n tip to make vanilla infused sugar w spent beans. Thank you!

[@jeccalou9894]

It will be amazing! I use bourbon and it's seriously superb so I bet brandy will be delicious.

[@lindajones9191]

I'm new to all of this. If I wanted vanilla to taste just like store bought vanilla I'm assuming I'd use the vodka? ​@jeccalou9894

[@nccgolden3626]

VanillaPura also offer bulk prices if your willing to wait a little for order.

[@MK-ti2oo]

I use spiced rum for it often and it's really good, I prefer it over vodka but bourbon is really good too. I think it's definitely better if you age it a full year and shake once a week or so.

[@nccgolden3626]

BTW how would you sterilize bottle w rubber gasket?

[@cortneyh8437]

I was JUST thinking, "I'm going to run and get supplies for making vanilla extract this week"

[@OrganicMommaGA]

It's so coincidental you posted this video today, right after I had started my first batch of homemade vanilla extract. I didn't weigh my fermented pods (what we call vanilla beans), but I split them and put them in 100 proof spiced rum. I divided out my 25-pod packet into 3 swing top jars (marketed as sauce bottles, so I believe they're 16 oz each). It worked out to 8 full beans per bottle and one bottle ended up with the extra - because I wasn't saving just one bean. I labeled them and set them under my kitchen counter (in a dark cabinet) so we'll see how yummy they turn out for Christmas 2024. I paid just under $34 for the alcohol and have almost enough left for another bottle of extract, and I paid about $26 for the Madagascar vanilla. The cost of the 3 bottles works out to about $8.50. So, with $68.50 invested, I was able to start 48 oz of vanilla extract with alcohol left over. My least expensive option at the store is currently $5.99 for a 2 oz bottle, so... I would have spent about $145 with tax to buy that same amount of extract at the store. Totally worth the wait! Thanks, Jess!

[@virginiabaker2966]

You said the magic words. Indri. Thank you for doing Vanilla Extract correctly. ❤❤❤

[@jodypratt2365]

Indri is about to BLOW up. Lol

[@angelaslifechannel692]

I have bought all my vanilla beans from indrivanilla. I have always been pleased with their beans. If anyone is sitting on the fence about buying from them go for it. They also have special sales on other things as well like pepper corns. I bought ceylon cinnamon from them and made cinnamon extract as well. I fell their prices are way better than any others I looked at purchasing. Their beans are so beautiful and definitely way above the grade A rating. Which they say is any bean 13 inches. I have had up to 18 inch beans from them and plump and full of caviar

[@kimberlyann777]

I am looking at their site to order some! They have so many different kinds of vanilla beans! Which do you recommend? Thank you!❤

[@loriandrew6690]

I started my vanilla rabbit hole in 2020 when I found Indri's Vanilla Facebook page. Waiting was the hardest part of the process. I now have 8 quart mason jars in various stages of extracting. 🙂

[@NathanielScottYT]

Just started 4 quarts. Never made extract before, and I really don't bake much, I just thought it'd be fun!

[@jnlc222]

I love making my own vanilla! I have one big jar that I make it in and I think I have 5 jars sitting in my safe right now! Every time that Vanilla Bean Kings has a co-op sale on their beans I buy about 6 ounces and start another jar! I use organic vodka at about $20.00 a bottle and I usually get the Madagascar beans for usually $10.00 an ounce but this holiday season I got them for $8.00 an ounce! Stock up time!! I get them going, put the date on them and number them so I know at a glance which bottle is next! I sat down and figured it out one time and I am paying about 1.29 or something like that per ounce of homemade vanilla and found out that when I use it to use a scant amount of what it calls for because the flavor is much more intense than store bought vanilla!!! I used to always add more, much more vanilla then a recipe called for now I use a right on the amount or a little less! Big difference! Love your video and hope everyone takes the time to make their own, the difference is major!

[@tarnr5713]

I've wanted to do this for ages - BUT it certainly pays to do the math first. Depending on how much you use and where you are in the world the cost effectiveness can be wildly different. Here in New Zealand I would need to make at least 1 litre (33.8 floz) for it to cost less than store bought and that would cost me around $150 NZD and take me about 5 years to use it all.

[@OhPervyOne]

If you have a litre of vanilla extract, trust me, you'll find more ways to use it. You'll bake more. You'll put it in hot cocoa. You'll add it to old recipes to find out what the difference might be. Have you tried vanilla extract in your coffee?

[@dorothycrowder8577]

I did mine, some with Spiced Rum and some with Vodka. I had my granddaughters helping and gave them a lesson on the vanilla bean while we were making the vanilla. Great time to spend with the kids!

[@exploringallgenres]

I've always used vodka for my extract. I recently started a new batch after realizing I was nearly out. I think making a new batch yearly is what I need to start doing that way I'll never run out.

[@primitivedaisy]

I have been using brandy to make my vanilla. I just started a jar right before New Years, so when my current vanilla is gone, I’ll have fresh! I usually start using it at the 6 month mark. I am also a scratch cooker and baker, and so appreciate this channel. 😊

[@BobbieXxoo]

Is it flavored brandy ?

[@renabarnett2238]

Been at it for years. I keep 2 handles of vodka going as mothers. I’m like you, I use straight out of the bottle. Lol. By mothers I mean I just leave spent beans in when empty, add more beans and fill with liquor again and put it to the back and start on the next. Once a bottle is about half full of beans I start a whole new fresh bottle and use the spent beans for sugar. It’s the best feeling ever when I look at vanilla prices. Heaven forbid to use imitation vanilla. Gak!

[@thomsenjr420]

For each of the vanilla bean orders, I use three different alcohols: Cruzan Aged Rum; Altos Reposado Tequilla; Evan Williams Bourbon. I use 8oz bottles with at least 1oz of beans per bottle. Vanilla Extracts: 03.2021 Madagascar 04.2021 Sri Lankan 05.2021 Papua New Guinea 07.2021 Ugandan v Planifolia 09.2021 Tahitensis 10.2021 Indonesian

[@AmandainGeorgia]

Tequila is interesting. I wouldn’t have thought of that. Can you taste it in the final product when baking with it? Fascinating.

[@thomsenjr420]

@@AmandainGeorgia no, I can't. But, when adding it to my hot tea or when my husband (he's the cook/baker) uses it for whipping cream, I can taste it then.

[@tiffcat1100]

@@thomsenjr420As a Brit I imagine that whipping cream (which term we have also) would be semi-hefty chez Jess! 😂

[@patriotmama]

I have been using my homemade vanilla for about 7 years now and will never go back to store bought. We love it. I use vodka for my extract simply because I want the purest vanilla flavor as possible. The first batch that I did , (after the year was over, that is the hardest part.....the waiting) I made a batch of oatmeal cookies for my husband and he noticed the great flavor right away. He hardly ever says anything about my baking but he did that time. I make a new batch every January too so I can give some out to my kids and married grands. They love it. So worth the up front cost and the wait. Just something so special about that flavor that you can't get anywhere else.

[@dancnluc1]

I made my first Vanilla Extract last year in February. I made a large bottle with Volka and another one with Bourbon. I broke down and poured an 8 oz bottle of the volka one and took to TN to give to my daughter. We used some while I was there. She seemed excited about getting it. My other is sitting. I should start another batch for gifting next year.

[@Garden-ish]

I used those same cute glass containers for Christmas gifts 2 years ago..... keep an eye on the liquid levels! The seals must leak air because they'll lower liquid levels over the year. But everyone LOVED the gift from me! Great decision Jess!

[@MarciPrice-cl6eq]

My Granny had a fifth of rum vanilla...it took her nearly 20 years to use... I too love the Bourbon vanilla!

[@tiawylupek7338]

I'm an avid home baker and always pay top dollar for vanilla extract from Penzeys, quality absolutely makes a difference. I would love to start making my own extract and will try this with Penzeys vanilla beans!

[@robinbyrd193]

I'm in the Indris vanilla bean group. I was amazed at the quality of the vanilla beans that I got from them . Madagascar vanilla beans are my favorite out of all the different beans I've bought. I've told my granddaughter that was her inheritance. Lol

[@Zoehaus96]

I love this group! I just ordered their newest batch, even tho I still have plenty from their HP series. It’s addictive!

[@HalleluYahfarm]

I also buy the Madagascar vanilla beans and absolutely love them!!

[@lanakane7325]

I'm in it too. My favorite of all is Mexican. Make some ice cream with it, you will not be sorry! That said, I have literal gallons of different extracts.

[@katherinek8448]

I started making my own vanilla almost 10 years ago. Never going to back to store bought. Homemade is so much better! 😊

[@marigoldmeadowsfarm7495]

Being a Kentucky memaw you’d think I’d be a Kentucky Bourbon fan…normally yes but I found a pecan brandy that has totally changed my mind. I’m looking forward to what this vanilla tastes like come Christmas cooking 2024…nothing better than home made vanilla!!! Thank you Jess…we bless you!!!! debby

[@mlee7037]

I live in NC so I support NC distilleries. I use End of Days spiced rum for my vanilla. It is amazing!!!❤

[@PrairieDawnC]

I was just thinking I should use a product distilled near where I live! Black Velvet Canadian Whisky is made in my town, so its probably a good choice. I've never bought it before.

[@cherylcurry2948]

I'm LOVING your Farmer's Table channel. I think your knowledge can greatly increase everyone's cooking abilities. Even what seems to be the most trivial of things (spatchcock chicken? yes please!) can be a game changer. I've grown so much in cooking this year, realizing how easy some meals (previously thought to be difficult) are! My kids used to not eat whole chickens because I only knew how to cook it in the crock pot. I've been cooking it in the oven now and everyone loves it! Thank you for showing back to basic home cooking.

[@michellesadler6869]

I used cheap vodka and spiced rum this past year. They both were awesome! I just keep adding new beans in mine each year, and I keep the old beans in the mother jar. I wait and pour into bottles for gifts right before Christmas. It just makes it easier for me not to have to shake each bottle. Works the same.

[@graceandfire]

I’ve been making vanilla for many years and it makes great gifts! 🌟SUGGESTION 🌟Amazon sells the shrink seals (you use a hair dryer) for the bottles. I’m always cautious about driving with “open containers”, even with homemade vanilla. And I wouldn’t want my gift recipient to get in trouble with the law if they get pulled over.

[@livmegargle5420]

I didn’t intend it to be this way but I can’t be the only one who is allowing each video to be their plan on what they’re making next!? So far I’ve made meatloaf, Dutch Babies (twice), tomato soup and I always roast chickens and make chicken soup. Definitely looking into getting the vanilla beans now haha

[@joannevenere3552]

I absolutely love mine. I also do almond, coconut, orange, lime, lemon & coffee. The coffee is so rich

[@reneebentz6070]

How would you go about doing almond extract and how long is it good for?

[@joannevenere3552]

@@reneebentz6070 I followed Mary’s Nest recipe. Using only blanched almonds as almond skins have tannins in them. I removed the extract from the almonds about 8 months after I made it and I’ve used all of my extract up after a year. Not sure of the shelf life. You might want to post a question to Mary on her site? I did the same w all my extracts except for the Vanilla. I leave the whole beans in and just keep adding more alcohol and a few more beans. I’ve had that for years

[@michellenorris211]

I think your idea to follow a recipe book, as in to cook all/most of the recipes in it, is a fabulous idea. I've decided to do that with your channel. Already made the sweet potato hash and it is excellent and has become a family favourite. Thankyou Jess.

[@The_Farmers_Table]

That blesses my heart!

[@mckennamontcalm]

I love this idea!

[@jeniferyeadon2955]

Agreed! I don’t know why I never thought of it. Makes so much sense!

[@beckydealba8286]

Watching this made me curious about food fraud involving vanilla extract and I found that, as expected, it does exist. Passing off imitation vanilla as extract. In France there was an investigation that concluded last year and 1 in 4 products was fake. Unfortunately there was also an issue with purchasing the pods - as some of these were actually spent beans, already used for extract but sold as fresh, and some were dipped in imitation vanilla. But even with that slight chance it seems that making your own, once again, gives you the best odds of knowing what you’re consuming!

[@angelaraum1545]

This I am not surprised about. Maybe why the one she linked that I used sucked as a bean. I believe in Mexico they use something that isn't actually vanilla beans to flavor as vanilla. Its not good. Alot of things are listed pure & have other ingredients esp the baking Watkins one. I use Vanilla Bean Kings. They seem like the real deal. I only buy the organic ones.

[@Narsuitus]

I make homemade vanilla extract to use in my homemade eggnog and ice cream. To make my extract, I put 10 split Madagascar vanilla beans, 1 tsp vanilla paste, one cinnamon stick, and 1/2 teaspoon of saffron in a 1-cup glass jar. I then filled the glass jar with Jack Daniels Tennessee Whiskey.

[@HalleluYahfarm]

I spent $25 on madagascar vanilla beans which I love! I bought a $13 bottle of 80 proof vodka and a $15 box of 12 bottles for sealing and made 83 oz of vanilla! Our cheapest fake vanilla cost is $5 per oz and even more for true vanilla extract!

[@SJA-ox3hs]

Gray goose vodka for vanilla for baking and buffalo trace bourbon for ice creams, and custards. Let it set for a year.

[@Junkinsally]

Coming to your house for dinner! 😂😂

[@justjlll4596]

I’ve been making vanilla extract for 10 plus years. Rum is my current favorite. IndriVanilla beans are the best. Once in awhile they will have cinnamon or pepper. I prefer to use tall skinner bottles because the beans don’t always fit well in mason jars and you can run into issues with the alcohol not being tall enough to cover the beans.

[@marymccombs8289]

If you have a friend or family member that buys bourbon, rum etc. you can ask them to save the bottles and stoppers/lids for you, to save a little money there. I'm looking forward to trying this for the first time and already have a variety of bottles, different sizes. Hoping to give as gifts. I think a basket of goodies made with the home-made vanilla and a jar or bottle of the same vanilla would be appreciated.

[@dhansonranch]

Good video! I have been making for years. I only use vodka thus far. In Canada, booze is sold by percent. For those folks who did not know, proof is double the percent. So, a 40% vodka is an 80 proof vodka.

[@tammycomeau9993]

Thanks for this info. I'm in Canada and clueless about alcohol!

[@dhansonranch]

@@tammycomeau9993 No worries!

[@themahoganyswan]

We are on the same timeline with vanilla extract making. I've been making it for years and just pulled my Jan 2023 vanilla extract from my back pantry. Date made 1/27/23 to be exact (label, label, label). I'm getting ready to make my next batch as well. I use Grade A Organic Madagascar Vanilla beans and Vodka as well as Spiced Rum - it's definitely worth the wait and because I'm always up on making it, I always have homemade vanilla extract in my pantry. I also get my 1.75L's from Costco - best price!

[@colleend9034]

I started making cinnamon extract this way earlier this year. Love making my own instead of buying the artificial extracts.

[@Sunniejoyful]

I'm going to start a batch of cinnamon extract tomorrow.

[@stacymcclain3066]

I've been making my vanilla extract and banana extract for about 4 years now. I use half Jim Beam and Vanilla Jim Beam per qt. mason jar with about 10-12 beans. As I finish a jar, I add those beans to my next jar so I'm constantly reusing the beans. For banana vanilla, I put a banana and a few vanilla beans in a qt. mason jar and I use vodka for that one!

[@jillcaponi8995]

I use vodka or spiced rum. My first batch just turned a year old. I had no idea about the ratio of beans to alcohol so I put ALOT of beans in each bottle, so it’s probably not very economical. But it sure tastes good 😂

[@alicegilder-camarena3766]

I purchased Vanilla Beans before Christmas to do this but hadn’t found the time to research how to actually make it. Thank you so much.

[@jomara2705]

Indri vanilla is literally the best baking rabbit hole ever. The flavors vanilla can make are mind boggling and that group has made it waaaay too easy to buy all the flavors lol. My favorite is cook island beans since they taste candy like and Ugandan for my chocolate bakes. Have fun in the group orders and enjoy the surprise in the mail later!

[@OhPervyOne]

I found Indri vanilla group a couple years ago but I kinda drifted away from FB for a while. (Tired of it all.) I was overwhelmed by all the posts in that group, but unsure on the quality of any of it. I shall take this comment as something of a Product Review and when I go back, I'll go to it with greater confidence. The enthusiasm of yours and others' comments here, along with Jess's video, have sold me. Thank you.

[@jomara2705]

@@OhPervyOne I've ordered for a few years now from them, always great.

[@OhPervyOne]

Thank you, @@jomara2705.

[@hucklbry44]

I am really enjoying Indri's vanilla group. I joined last fall but still have not gone ahead and purchased beans or booze. But! I will! You make it so easy to understand the process. I hope the Indri group finds your video.

[@joanies6778]

Made mine for the first time 2 1/2 years ago... still working on those bottles. I made (2) batches reusing maple syrup jars with vodka. I made a smaller jar with the dark spiced rum. Like them both. "Let's say you're a little short on the beans..." yeah, I've had a few of those days. 😂

[@KnittingmommyArts]

I love making homemade vanilla. I tried it for the first time a few years ago and it was the best vanilla I'd ever had. I had no idea it would be so much better than the store bought stuff. Vanilla is one of my favorite things about baking from scratch. I will admit I probably double the amount of vanilla in just about every recipe I make. I've made two more batches since then, one with vodka and one with moonshine. My favorite is actually with the moonshine which I purchased at my local liquor store. My next batch of vanilla is going to be with some spiced rum. I've heard some good reviews of homemade vanilla with spiced rum. As for Indri's Vanilla Bean Group, I've been a member of that group for a few years now and have done a couple of vanilla purchases. The beans were very high quality and I have no regrets getting them. Will be buying more beans sometime this year because I'm going to need a start a couple of new batches of vanilla very soon. They have the whole buying process down to a science and it runs very smoothly.

[@dorifraser8951]

I made it with Captain Morgan’s Spiced Rum…amazing! I gave it as gifts for Christmas with instructions on keeping the beans to start another batch! I started them a year before I gifted them shaking the bottles a few times a week.

[@Saeboria]

I found out about making vanilla extract like 2 months ago and thought it would be a nice christmas present and then I found out it take a whole year so i was like oops nvm! but i would like to just try to make it for myself to course, but also give them as gifts next year again so thank you for this video! i definitely forgot about it and would’ve remembered when I bought the extract again and been angry i didn’t get started lol. I live in PA and our alcohol laws are so antiquated, I wish costco’s here sold alcohol!

[@rmcrms5]

Ive been making homemade vanilla for 10 years and cant imagine ever going back to store bought. I keep 3 large bottles of vodka going in my pantry and have a smaller bottle that I use in my kitchen.

[@ria9881]

So, I use the inside for baking custards and such. Then I throw the pods into alcohol and just add my spent beans in as I use them. It takes a little longer but It also allows me to use the bean in multiple ways which I love :)

[@tiffcat1100]

That sounds good 😊

[@ginnamagda5810]

I made vanilla with Madagascar vanilla beans with vodka and the others with captain morgans spiced As gifts for everyone. Happily accepted by all. They are beautiful everlasting gifts. 😊now I will try more kinds for this year!

[@dianejohanson98]

I make up some vanilla about every year. I give them as gifts for Christmas as well as for my home use. Vodka isn’t expensive but the vanilla beans are a bit pricey. But when it yields several bottles of vanilla, it’s not that expensive. I do let each new big bottle sit in a dark place for a year, shaking them a few times a year. I write the date on the bottle with a Sharpie when it’s bottled and I buy those smaller clamp seal bottles from Amazon. In fact I gave my 2022 vanilla as gifts this past Christmas.

[@michellesmith4584]

My daughter recently started making her own vanilla extract. I was blessed to be gifted a bottle at Christmas! When I asked her how she did it..... She replied with, " Its a secret!" Lol Thanks for sharing this video. Oh..... And letting the "secret" out! 😂

[@karenm5681]

I started 2 vodka bottles of vanilla extract in August 2021 with pouring a bit from each bottle into a pint sized mason jar to make room for beans. Used up the store-bought vanilla I already had and the pint jar first, earlier than the 1 year, while waiting for the 1 year deadline. I still haven’t opened the second bottle of homemade vanilla extract. It’s three times the strength of store-bought vanilla so you can use less and still get the same flavour. Actually, it’s better, not the same. Nice to know it won’t spoil while waiting its turn. I think I would like to try this with the bourbon instead of vodka. Maybe I’ll alternate between vodka and bourbon each winter from now on. Thanks for the inspiration! For anyone on the fence because of the one year deadline…do it! Time is going to pass anyway. Might as well. Just write the info you need on a paper bag that the bottle stays in to keep the light away (light can degrade the quality) and tuck it on a shelf somewhere. In a year you’ll be so glad you did this future gift to yourself…or others.

[@JodiYeager]

LOL, I said to my husband this morning while watching your video: "Woh, How do I get on her Christmas list?" Giving out 8oz home made vanilla extract. Priceless!

[@The_Farmers_Table]

Love that! ♥️♥️

[@HelloPromiseGarden]

Wow, Jess! This is great! And what a coincidence - I just put out a video this morning on making Rose Extract from rose petals I’ve been saving. I guess it’s a great thing to do in the winter! Also, a friend of mine just made Elderberry extract, so I’m excited to learn about making different kinds of extracts. I use them for baking, flavoring teas, and maybe even medicinal use some day. ❤

[@HomesteadingSolo]

I made my first homemade vanilla in October 2019. I made 4 bottles. I used vodka, rum and bourbon for 3 and the 4th bottle I mixed all 3 liquors together in equal parts. I opened the first bottle December 2022. Absolutely delicious.

[@wtchfrmpnw]

I made a jar of this in 2015, right before my husband and I got married. Recently I needed to "top up" the jar. I'm pretty sentimental about this bottle.

[@marydamon]

I purchase my vanilla from a farmer's market each year. This video has convinced me to make my own and also for Christmas presents for next year.Thank you. I am a newbie to your site, and I am truly enjoying warching your videos

[@maryturner3534]

I’ve been making extract for many years. I prefer vodka but my daughter prefers bourbon. A wonderful lesson for new cooks.

[@kellygreen8255]

I’ve given vanilla extract for Christmas gifts too. The recipients have always LOVED them!

[@debraknapp1577]

Jess, The link you suggested for the vanilla beans is the best beans for the money !!!! I've purchased 3 different kind of beans , I love them all !!!

[@The_Farmers_Table]

I’ve been very happy with them

[@GBR23-ts4lg]

Thank you, very informative. Started making my vanilla extract two years ago. I don’t cut it or slice it. Love the look of the vanilla beans in a uniform manner. They were also for Christmas gifts, have made 35 bottles each year. I’ve bought Madagascar Grade A vanilla beans and swivel top bottles from Amazon and the Vodka from Costco a well. Funny story - the Vodka bottles from Costco say 40% alcohol, which are 80%. I must say I don’t drink alcoholic drinks, only cook with wines, brandy and now Vodka for making Vanilla Extract. So the first time I went and bought Vodka, I was looking for 80% - none said that until I asked my husband, and he explained to me that 40% was 80%. 🤦🏻‍♀️ I never have paid attention to the percentage I only go for the name of the alcohol. 😅

[@darylefleming1191]

We living in Hawaii. I grow my own vanilla beans. They must be hand pollinated. The first year, we had about six bottles, the next year we had made 97 bottles.

[@cathyreece3601]

I gave homemade vanilla extract for Christmas gifts this year. I started it in January 2023 and used 100 proof vodka. It turned out great! I’ll be making it again. Thanks for the video!

[@thesquirrellygardener]

I use a gallon jar and 100 beans. I did a first batch of 100 beans in a gallon of vodka and let that go for a year, but now I'm doing a 2nd batch with those same beans, except this time I sliced the beans open and they've been sitting in a gallon of spiced rum for 2 years. I'll probably let it go for 5 years before I open it. I'm still working through the gallon of vodka vanilla.

[@jennifervolkert8203]

I love making Bourbon Vanilla, but I'm cheap with the beans, so I end up letting mine set for longer. Works and tastes great, but admittedly, I should be adding more beans. 😂

[@samanthaw1419]

I make fruit liquor for gifts. Vodka or gin, raspberries rhubarb or blackberries and sugar. It looks so pretty as the liquid turns pink. You have to turn it every month. It is always well received and if you happen to forget a jar and find it two years later...rocket fuel! 😂

[@tiffcat1100]

Is the rhubarb raw, I guess it has to be? What sugar do you use or doesn’t it matter because presumably it dissolves regardless?

[@samanthaw1419]

Hi yes Rhubarb is raw and I use white sugar. Google liquor recipe, it's really lovely to drink and a very pretty gift. @@tiffcat1100

[@hiddenoasishomestead7054]

This is my first year making extract. I bought Madagascar and tahitian vanilla beans and Buffalo Trace as I wanted one that was made from non GMO crops. I am open though to others suggestions as I would love to do a vodka and rum version.

[@ericarigler8892]

Ive been doing this for 3 years and gave as gifts also. I love spiced rum as a base 😊

[@micheleturner2510]

I will be making my own vanilla. It has been on my list for a couple months. I’m going to the Islands next month and I will be purchasing some vanilla beans and nutmeg. The vanilla that I purchased from there a few years back has ran out and it was so good. Thank you so much for walking through this video with us.

[@OrganicMommaGA]

Oooh be sure to pick up whole nutmeg when you go there, because then you also get mace spice. It's a frequently forgotten spice in baking, but it can lend such a lovely subtle flavor.

[@marieb1952]

We're been making vanilla extract since the 80's. I like all the comments with tips! Mine wpuld be the quality of the alcohol absolutely 100% makes a difference in the taste. It as well makes a huge difference in the taste of the baked good. Leaving it 2 months, 3 months, thats just flavored alcohol. Minimum of a year!

[@dragontail281]

I've been using my own home made vanilla for over 15 years. Never had to wait for a year for it to be ready. I wait about a month or so. As I use, I top up the bottle with more vodka. I add new beans as the color/flavor startes to lighten up. I have used the same clear 16oz flip top beer bottle the whole time. Really should only use a clear, vodka/rum, as a bourbon/whiskey will add other flavors.

[@rbaumann01]

You actually don’t need a Costco membership to shop at the liquor store part. Happy shopping.

[@jIlLiAnganz]

You do in states where the alcohol section is not a separate store front.

[@carriemccarthy4175]

Depends on the state. Our state only allows Costco to sell beer and wine, and it requires a membership to shop.

[@rbaumann01]

@@jIlLiAnganz I was unaware. In Texas you don’t need a membership.

[@shalakimple5887]

I started making my own last January. I ordered from Indi's. I have Indonesian beans Tito's vodka and Madagascar beans in Makers Mark. both are so good. I have more beans on the way. will never buy again.

[@lenarrhodes]

I've been buying my beans from Indri Vanilla for several years. They do a great job!

[@sewhappyla6625]

I’ve done lemon extract for years but have never tried making my own vanilla. This may be the year.

[@thomsenjr420]

Indri's is the best place to buy beans. I've been a vanilla geek for many years! Good video with great information for the beginner!

[@thomsenjr420]

Remember to always dab a little behind each ear when you use your vanilla!!!❤

[@marlaherrington5320]

I've been making my own vanilla extract for years now. Love it

[@TrixieJFerguson]

Hmmm … I started a bottle of vanilla extract in a fifth of vodka sometime in 2011 … I’m thinking the fall of the year. Anyway … I have never started a new batch of vanilla since then. I generally just pour some into a decanter for my kitchen cabinet and top off my vodka (with the beans still in it). It still tastes good and works well in my recipes.

[@kelliesmith4068]

I put grade B beans in 80% proof Vodka Oct 2023 to give for Christmas 2024. I am very excited to also share the data I gathered shows this homemade vanilla will be 1/4th the cost of real vanilla in my neck of the woods. I am using qt mason jars & have 4oz amber colored bottles to pour the vanilla into.

[@storeywilliams6162]

You gave me the most fabulous idea for Christmas gifts this year! I did photo frames a few years ago and couldn't figure out how to top that (It was a huge hit with the grandparents!) until I found Greenstalks on your channel the following year. This past Christmas I gave some crocheted blankets and some homemade spices. This year I think I'll DIY a bunch of homemade, home grown, stuff to put in a gift basket! I'm loving this channel!

[@vanessadolby574]

I use bourbon for my extract and I like the madagascar beans the most. My last batch of vanilla I got 20 eight ounce bottles. I used amber bottles to shield the vanilla from light. I prefer to just put the beans into the bottle of bourbon and then I put the bottles in the back of a kitchen cupboard and I just ignore it for a year. To get 20 bottles I used two large bottles and one small bottle of bourbon. I give it to friends as gifts for birthdays or Christmas.

[@rcger]

I've been making my own extract for several years now. I generally use Vodka, but I have made some out of Bourbon. I believe I read somewhere that to be legally called "extract", you have to use at least 70 proof alcohol. We gave it for Christmas gifts this years to friends and neighbors.

[@magsstewart5488]

That’s an excellent gift idea! I do very little gift-giving, but I am still going to do this in smaller, gift able bottles for the occasional hostess gift if needed. Also, I have a bunch of those bottles waiting for a purpose. 👍

[@deltorres2100]

Yes I use those bottles I bought on Amazon and I do I’ll give them out for gifts as well but I noticed the longer they make your vanilla is better. I actually have some that are two years old and there’s vanilla is awesome.

[@carrieburton8667]

I’m a member of that group you mentioned and learned a lot from them! I’ve been making my own vanilla for about 5 years now, I use ever clear; however, you have to dilute it with purified water, makes wonderful vanilla! I have received the most beautiful vanilla beans from the group orders and the prices are great! I have a few jars brewing in vodka, but I have found that the ever clear gives me a better product in the end 😊

[@shelleysimmons2804]

What is the amount of water and ever clear.

[@carrieburton8667]

@@shelleysimmons2804 I do 50/50 because the proof of ever clear is, if I remember correctly, 180, and it’s distilled water not purified 😬

[@carrieburton8667]

@@shelleysimmons2804 sorry I’m babysitting my 2 year old granddaughter and she’s not being very cooperative right now, I will go look at my bottles to make sure and get back with you to make sure I’m not lying to you 😂😂

[@brendarogers551]

I use 190 everclear diluted with distilled water 50/50 which I think makes the best vanilla extract. Have also tried the bourbons and rum, which are also good. My absolute favorite is a mocha vanilla extract.

[@donnaesposito4084]

This is spot on. I've been making vanilla for a few years and buy my beans from IndriVanilla. I have almost every type of bean they have. Their quality is great. And my vanilla is amazing!

[@kittiew260]

I do this with vodka and spiced rum. Best xmas gifts ever. Batch started in 2022 December it will be gifted in 2025. I always have years of batches going.

[@laymanhomestead4711]

I'm listening to you explain how to make this while I paint 😂. I'll need to watch again to "see" the steps. I've never made my own vanilla extract, but have always wanted to try. Thanks for another great video!

[@tiffcat1100]

I often listen rather than watch but this morning I watched Jess along with a beautiful ballet class & dear Remi Clog cleaning up, from bed!! 😂