Go Back
Spiced Vanilla Recipe with Texas warmth and cinnamon spices

Spiced Vanilla Extract Recipe

This homemade spiced vanilla extract infuses split vanilla beans with warm spices — cinnamon, cardamom, and star anise — in vodka for 4–6 weeks to create a deeply aromatic flavoring. It requires only 10 minutes of active prep and deepens in complexity with time. Use in coffee, baked goods, custards, and whipped cream for a warm, layered vanilla flavor unlike any store-bought extract.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Servings: 1 cup (many uses)
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3 vanilla beans Madagascar Bourbon preferred, split lengthwise and scraped
  • 1 cup vodka 80 proof; or substitute bourbon or rum
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 3 cardamom pods lightly crushed
  • 1 star anise
  • 3 whole cloves optional, for deeper warmth

Method
 

  1. Slice each vanilla bean lengthwise with a sharp knife and scrape out the seeds. Place both the pods and seeds into a clean glass jar with a tight-fitting lid.
  2. Add cinnamon sticks, lightly crushed cardamom pods, star anise, and cloves (if using) to the jar.
  3. Pour vodka over the vanilla and spices, ensuring all beans are fully submerged. Seal the jar tightly.
  4. Store in a cool, dark place (pantry or cupboard) for 4–6 weeks. Shake the jar gently every few days to help the flavors meld.
  5. After 4–6 weeks the extract will be deep amber in color and richly fragrant. Strain into a clean bottle if desired, or leave the beans and spices in for continued deepening. Use a few drops anywhere vanilla is called for.

Notes

Steeping time: 4–6 weeks minimum; 8 weeks produces the deepest flavor. Shake the jar every few days during steeping. Storage: Store in a cool, dark place indefinitely. To refresh: as you use the extract, top off with more vodka, replace any spent vanilla beans, and allow to re-steep. Tip: Use Madagascar Bourbon vanilla beans for a rich, creamy flavor profile. Split and scrape the bean before adding to release vanillin compounds immediately. Variation: Substitute vodka with bourbon or rum for a richer, more complex extract. Glycerin can replace alcohol for an alcohol-free version.