You Made Vanilla Extract—Now What? Other Easy Extracts to Try Next
So, you finally made your own vanilla extract. You steeped high-quality vanilla beans in alcohol, gave it time to infuse, and now you have a rich, flavorful extract that rivals anything on the store shelf. First of all—congrats! There's nothing quite like the satisfaction of DIY vanilla. But if you're staring at your newly emptied vanilla bottles and wondering what to do next, there are plenty of other things you can do with them.
Once you've mastered homemade vanilla extract, you're ready to branch out into other easy, flavorful extracts and infusions. These simple projects use the same basic method (steeping ingredients in alcohol) and make excellent pantry staples or thoughtful gifts. And yes, they pair perfectly with our reusable bottles and custom labels! Please keep in mind these are loose recipes and can be modified easily as you see fit.
Almond Extract
Almond extract is a baking essential with a warm, nutty aroma. While store-bought versions are often made from bitter almond oil or imitation flavoring, you can make a cleaner, more authentic version at home.
How to make it:
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- Chop roughly 1/2 cup of raw, skinless unsalted almonds.
- Add them to a glass jar with 1 cup of 80 proof vodka (or another neutral spirit).
- Let the mixture sit in a cool, dark place for 6-8 weeks, shaking occasionally.
Use it in cookies, cakes, muffins, or anything that could use a nutty boost. This one pairs well with vanilla extract in a lot of baked goods!
Limoncello (or Lemon Extract)
If you loved making vanilla extract, you'll love this bright, citrusy infusion. Limoncello is a sweet Italian liqueur, while lemon extract is an unsweetened version used in baking. Both are made from lemon zest.
How to make it:
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- Peel the zest from 6-8 organic lemons (avoid the white pith).
- Steep the zest in 2 cups of 80 proof vodka for at least 2 weeks for extract or 4 weeks for limoncello.
- For limoncello, strain and add simple syrup (1 cup sugar + 1 cup water, simmered and cooled).
Use your custom bottles and labels to create beautiful gifts for friends and family or to display in your home.
Peppermint Extract
Perfect for holiday baking and festive drinks, peppermint extract is simple to make and lasts for months.
How to make it:
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- Lightly crush 1 cup of fresh peppermint leaves.
- Add them to a jar with 1 cup of 80 proof vodka.
- Steep for 6-8 weeks, then strain and bottle.
Add it to brownies, chocolate bark, or hot cocoa.
Orange or Citrus Extracts
Citrus extracts like orange, lime, or grapefruit bring a bright, zingy note to baked goods and sauces.
How to make it:
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- Use 1 cup peels or zest (not juice) from your chosen citrus.
- Steep the zest in 80 proof vodka for 2-4 weeks.
Pro tip: Make a citrus trio and label each for a professional look in your pantry or gift basket.
Coffee Extract
Looking for a bold, roasted flavor to enhance chocolate desserts, tiramisu, or cocktails? Coffee extract is your next go-to.
How to make it:
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- Coarsely grind 1/2 cup of coffee beans.
- Combine with 1 cup of 80 proof vodka and steep for 2-3 weeks.
A few drops add depth to frostings, cookies, and even marinades.
Lavender or Floral Extracts
Lavender, rose, or chamomile extracts add delicate notes to baked goods, teas, or syrups. These are best made in small batches for occasional use.
How to make it:
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- Use 1/4 cup dried edible flowers per 1 cup of 80 proof vodka.
- Steep for 1-2 weeks, tasting frequently to avoid overpowering flavors.
Spiced Extracts: Cinnamon, Clove & More
Want to add warm spice to your fall baking? Try making your own spiced extracts.
How to make it:
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- Break up 1 cup of cinnamon sticks or use 1-2 tablespoons of whole cloves.
- Steep in 1 cup of 80 proof vodka for 4-6 weeks.
Spiced extracts work beautifully in quick breads, holiday cookies, and warm drinks.
Ginger Extract
Zippy and fragrant, ginger extract brings depth to both sweet and savory dishes.
How to make it:
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- Peel and chop 1/2 cup of fresh ginger.
- Combine with 1 cup of 80 proof vodka.
- Steep for 4-6 weeks and strain.
Use it in marinades, stir-fries, and gingerbread cookies.
Anise or Licorice Extract
For lovers of bold, licorice-like flavor, try anise extract. It's a must-have for Italian cookies or homemade biscotti.
How to make it:
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- Crush 2 tablespoons of anise seeds.
- Steep in 1 cup of 80 proof vodka for 2-4 weeks.
Taste every few days until it reaches your desired strength.
Vanilla Blends: Infused Extract Variations
Already love your homemade vanilla? Try combining it with other flavors!
Ideas:
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- Vanilla-cinnamon extract: Add a cinnamon stick to your vanilla bottle.
- Vanilla-orange extract: Add citrus zest for a refreshing twist.
- Vanilla-coffee extract: Add a few coffee beans to deepen the flavor.
These blends are ideal for experimenting in your favorite recipes.
Tips for DIY Extract Success
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- Use high-proof alcohol (at least 80 proof) for best results.
- Label your jars with the type of extract and date started.
- Be patient: Most extracts need at least 4-8 weeks to fully develop.
- Strain carefully with cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve.
- Store in a cool, dark place for the best shelf life (most extracts last 1-2 years).
Bonus: Use Our Bottles and Labels for Gifting or Organization
At Vanilla Bean Kings, we offer high-quality bottles and custom labels to take your DIY extracts to the next level. Whether you're stocking your own pantry or gifting your creations, our accessories make everything look polished and professional. Our bottles are durable, seal tightly, and come in sizes perfect for extract-making.
Pair your homemade extracts with our printable labels to create gifts your friends and family will actually use—and love.
Ready to Try Something New?
Once you've made your first bottle of vanilla extract, a whole world of homemade flavors is at your fingertips. Start experimenting with citrus, nuts, spices, herbs, and more—and enjoy the process of building your own flavorful collection.
Shop our bottles, labels, and premium vanilla beans today at Vanilla Bean Kings to support your next kitchen project!
