Slice the vanilla beans lengthwise down the center but not all the way through, and open each bean slightly.

Place the vanilla beans into the bottle or jar. If they are too long then cut them into smaller pieces, or to the length you need.

Fill the bottle or jar with the vodka so that the vanilla beans are completely covered.

Place the lid and give it a good shake and place it in a cool dark place.

Let the extract sit for at least a month, but preferably six to eight weeks. The longer the extract sits, the more aromatic it will be. Shake it at least once a week throughout the storage period.

Top up with more vodka as you use the extract to keep the beans submersed. If you don’t top up then make sure you remove the beans as when they are uncovered they may get moldy. If you remove the vanilla beans, the extract will last indefinitely.