Step 1

Add vanilla beans to a sterilized bottle. If the beans are too long for the bottle, cut it in half or thirds as needed.

Step 2

Fill the bottle with your choice of alcohol, leaving about an inch at the top of the bottle.

Step 3

Secure the top of the bottle. Label and shake vigorously.

Step 4

Store in a cool, dry, and dark location for 6 to 8 weeks, shaking once per week. The longer the vanilla extract steeps, the darker and more prominent the vanilla flavor and scent will be.