How To Make Vanilla Extract From Scratch

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What You'll Need

To make vanilla extract, you'll need vanilla beans and alcohol. For the alcohol, choose a strong liquor like rum or bourbon (plain vodka will also do the trick). Don't feel like you have to splurge on Grey Goose — any supermarket brand will do, as most of the flavor comes from vanilla beans.  Vanilla beans are most widely available around the holidays, and you can purchase any variety, either online or from the grocery store.