The Mother Jar Method: A Timeless Way to Make Vanilla Extract
If you’ve ever made homemade vanilla extract—or you’re just thinking about starting—you may have come across the term “mother jar.” It sounds mysterious, but it’s actually one of the simplest and most rewarding ways to keep high-quality vanilla extract on hand in your own kitchen.
At Dadora, we love the mother jar method because it’s sustainable, cost-effective, and makes the most out of every single bean. Plus, it’s a kitchen ritual that only gets better with time.
What Exactly Is a Mother Jar?
Think of it like a sourdough starter, but for vanilla. Instead of making a single batch of extract and tossing the beans once you’re done, a mother jar is a long-term jar you feed over time.
You start with two simple ingredients: vanilla beans and alcohol. As you use extract from the jar, you top it off with more alcohol (and sometimes more beans). Over months—even years—the flavor develops into a deeper, richer, and completely unique blend.
Why Use the Mother Jar Method?
✨ Better Flavor – The longer beans infuse, the more layered and aromatic the extract becomes.
✨ Less Waste – Split, scraped, or used beans can still be added to your jar instead of thrown away.
✨ Always Ready – You’ll always have extract on hand for baking and cooking.
✨ Customizable – Love bold, dark notes? Prefer lighter floral tones? With a mother jar, you create your own signature extract.
What You’ll Need to Start
- A glass jar (16–32 oz, mason jars work perfectly)
- Vanilla beans (about 1 oz per 8 oz of alcohol) 1 oz is about ten beans each bean is approximately 30g
- Alcohol (vodka is classic, but bourbon or rum add depth)
- A label (so you remember what you used and when)
Optional: a funnel and small bottles if you’d like to decant for gifting.
How to Make Your First Mother Jar
- Prepare the Beans – Split beans lengthwise to expose the seeds, then cut into smaller pieces.
- Fill the Jar – Add beans and cover completely with alcohol.
- Seal and Shake – Tighten the lid and give it a good shake.
- Infuse – Store in a cool, dark place. Shake every few days at first, then once a week.
- Wait – Good extract takes patience—plan on 6–12 months for the best flavor.
Keeping Your Mother Jar Alive
The beauty of the mother jar is that it doesn’t have an expiration date if you care for it properly.
- Top Off with Alcohol – Replace what you use with fresh alcohol.
- Add New Beans – Refresh when old beans lose their strength.
- Remove Old Beans – If they get slimy or start to break down, they’ve done their job.
- Label Everything – Track your beans and alcohol for consistency.
Common Questions
How do I know when to add more beans?
If the extract looks lighter or smells less fragrant, it’s time to add fresh beans.
Can I mix different alcohols?
Yes! Try vodka for neutral flavor, or layer with bourbon or rum for extra character.
What if my beans float?
Not a big deal—just make sure they’re fully submerged to avoid mold. Add more alcohol or weigh them down.
Why Dadora Vanilla Makes It Better
Our beans are grown in the tropical lowlands of Esmeraldas, Ecuador, and cured by hand in the cool Highlands of Quito. This dual-climate process produces beans with floral, caramel, and fruity undertones—perfect for building a mother jar that develops extraordinary depth over time.
Starting a mother jar isn’t just a DIY project—it’s a tradition. With every bean you add, you’re creating a flavor that’s uniquely yours.
✨ Ready to begin your own? Shop Dadora Vanilla Beans and start your mother jar today.
