Bottles
2
Cost
$24
Steep
8 wk
8 weeks
2
$24
$12
Savings: $4 per bottle (26% less)
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Price as of Jul 24, 2026. Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
Inputs
Result
6 beans × $3.50 = $21.00 + 1 cup vodka $2.50 = $23.50 total. 1 cup = 237ml / 118ml per 4oz bottle = 2 bottles. (Note: actual yield 4 bottles.)
Inputs
Result
3 oz lemon zest × $0.50/oz = $1.50 + 1 cup vodka $2.50 = $4.00 total. 1 cup (237ml) / 59ml per 2oz bottle = 4 bottles.
The standard ratio is 6 vanilla beans per 1 cup (8 oz) of vodka. This meets the FDA standard of 13.35 oz of vanilla beans per gallon of extract. Grade B (extract-grade) beans are ideal — they have less moisture and more concentrated flavor than Grade A. Split beans lengthwise before steeping.
| Batch Size | Beans Needed | Alcohol | Steep Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 cup | 6 beans | 1 cup vodka | 8 weeks |
| 2 cups | 12 beans | 2 cups vodka | 8 weeks |
| 1 quart | 24 beans | 4 cups vodka | 8 weeks |
Vanilla extract needs a minimum of 8 weeks steeping, but 6 months produces the best flavor. Almond extract is ready in 6 weeks. Citrus extracts (lemon, orange) only need 4 weeks. Peppermint takes 4 weeks. Coffee extract is the fastest at just 2 weeks. Shake the bottle weekly during steeping.
Yes, dramatically. Homemade vanilla extract costs about $1.50–2.50 per 4 oz bottle versus $8–15 for store-bought pure vanilla. The savings are even greater for larger batches. A 1-cup batch (6 beans + vodka) costs about $23 and fills four 4 oz bottles at roughly $5.75 each vs $40+ retail.
Vodka is the standard choice because its neutral flavor lets the extract ingredient shine. Bourbon adds warmth and complexity to vanilla extract. Rum creates a richer, more tropical vanilla. Food-grade glycerin is the best non-alcohol option but produces a slightly different flavor profile and shorter shelf life.
Read our guide
Read our guide
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Last Updated: Jul 24, 2026
This calculator is provided for informational and educational purposes only. Results are estimates and should not be considered professional financial, medical, legal, or other advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making important decisions. UseCalcPro is not responsible for any actions taken based on calculator results.