Why the Right Alcohol Matters
When making homemade vanilla extract, most people focus on the vanilla beans (as they should!). But the alcohol you pair with your beans is just as important. It acts as the solvent that draws out the rich, aromatic compounds from the beans. Choose the wrong spirit, and your extract might lack the depth, sweetness, or warmth you're after.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best alcohols to use when making extract—and which vanilla beans they pair best with.
🥃 Top Spirits for Vanilla Extract & What They Add
✅ Vodka: The Classic Choice
Vodka is the most popular alcohol for extract because it’s flavorless. This allows the vanilla bean’s profile to shine through—pure, unaltered.
Pairs well with:
- Madagascar vanilla (buttery, classic)
- Mexican vanilla (warm, creamy)
✅ Rum: Sweet & Complex
Rum adds a layer of molasses-like sweetness and warmth. It creates a rich, dessert-friendly extract.
Pairs well with:
- Ugandan vanilla (chocolatey notes)
- Tahitian vanilla (fruity, floral)
✅ Bourbon: Bold & Smoky
Bourbon adds a smoky caramel flavor that complements earthy and spiced beans. It’s a favorite for extract used in baked goods with cinnamon, nutmeg, or nuts.
Pairs well with:
- Indonesian vanilla (spicy, earthy)
- Tongan vanilla (bold, dark)
✅ Brandy: Fruity & Elegant
Brandy offers a touch of sweetness and fruit-forward aroma. It’s ideal for gourmet or floral-leaning beans.
Pairs well with:
- Ecuadorian vanilla (light, floral)
- Costa Rican vanilla (fruity, gentle)
✅ Whiskey: Spicy & Strong
If you like bold flavor, whiskey can add complexity and a spicy kick. Choose strong vanilla beans that can hold their own.
Pairs well with:
- Comoros vanilla (peppery spice)
- Papua New Guinea vanilla (deep, smoky)
🧪 Pro Tips for Making the Perfect Extract
- Use 1 oz of vanilla beans per 8 oz of alcohol (by weight, not count).
- Slice the beans lengthwise to expose the inner caviar.
- Store in a cool, dark place and shake weekly.
- Wait at least 8 weeks, but 6+ months yields the best results.
🛍️ Shop VanillaPura’s 50+ Vanilla Bean Varieties
We offer over 50 ethically sourced vanilla beans perfect for any extract project.
Browse all vanilla beans here »
🎯 Want to Find Your Perfect Vanilla Bean & Spirit Pair?
Take our quick quiz and get 3 custom vanilla bean recommendations + 1 spirit pairing based on your preferences:
Try the Extract Design Quiz »
🎁 Special Offer for Blog Readers
Use code NEWBLOG15CZ7 at checkout for 15% off any vanilla beans in our collection.
🕒 Valid for a limited time!
