The price of vanilla extract has seen significant increases in recent years. A small 2 oz bottle of pure vanilla extract can cost upwards of $12 or more, depending on the brand and quality. For avid bakers, this can add up quickly. Many people have started to consider homemade vanilla extract not only as a fun kitchen project but also as a potential money-saver.

Store-Bought Vanilla Extract Prices

When purchasing vanilla extract from stores, you might encounter various price points:

Low-end brands: Approximately $11 for a 4 oz bottle.
High-end brands: Upwards of $18 for a similar quantity.

Over time, these costs can accumulate, especially for frequent bakers. For instance, if you buy two 4 oz bottles of high-quality vanilla extract per year, that could amount to $180 over five years.

Ingredients Needed

To make your own vanilla extract, you’ll need:

Vanilla beans: The cost varies depending on the quality and type. Grade A beans are typically plumper and more expensive, while Grade B beans are drier and less costly but ideal for extraction.
Alcohol: Most recipes recommend using vodka, as it has a neutral flavor. You can also use bourbon or rum for added complexity.

Estimated Costs

Vanilla Beans: Approximately $30 for a quart of homemade extract, which can yield about 32 oz (or four 8 oz bottles).
Alcohol: A 750ml bottle of vodka can cost around $6.
Total Cost: Making your own extract could cost around $41 for a year’s supply, compared to $180 for store-bought.

Long-Term Savings

While the initial investment in quality vanilla beans may seem high, the ability to refill your homemade extract by adding more alcohol and using the existing beans can extend its life and flavor. As noted by several sources, homemade vanilla extract can indeed be cheaper over time, especially for those who use it frequently.

Step-by-Step Guide

Ingredients:

4–6 whole vanilla beans (Grade A or B)
1 cup (8 oz) of vodka or other 70+ proof alcohol

Preparation:

Split the vanilla beans lengthwise and scrape the seeds into a jar.
Add the split beans and cover with alcohol.
Seal the jar tightly and store it in a dark place at room temperature.

Infusion Time:

Shake the jar once a week for the first few weeks.
For the best flavor, let it infuse for at least 6 months, although it can be used after just 2 months.

Refilling:

As you use the extract, you can top off the jar with more alcohol to continue the extraction process.

Tips for Best Results

Use high-quality vanilla beans for a richer flavor.
Consider blending the beans with alcohol for a quicker infusion (about 4-5 weeks).
Experiment with different types of beans (Madagascar, Mexican, Tahitian) to find your preferred flavor profile.

Overall, making your own vanilla extract can be significantly cheaper than purchasing it from the store, especially for regular bakers. The initial costs may seem daunting, but the long-term savings and the ability to customize the flavor make it a worthwhile endeavor. Additionally, homemade vanilla extract often boasts a richer flavor profile than many commercially available options, providing added incentive to take on this DIY project. Whether for personal use or as thoughtful gifts, homemade vanilla extract is a delicious and economical choice.