The Weekend Hobbyist

Happy New Year! I hope your January is off to a cozy start. Can we believe it is 2026?!

I wanted to share a favorite tradition my husband and I enjoy together every January. (And it doesn’t involve a scale, a treadmill, or a pair of sneakers;). So, what do we do? We prep our HOMEMADE VANILLA!

Now, before you talk yourself out of it, let me reassure you– it is a very beginner-friendly activity! Keep reading to find all my favorite products.

Okay, I promised you it was simple, so how do 2 ingredients with 4 kitchen materials sound? I thought you’d like it!

Your ingredients are, of course, vanilla beans and the soaking alcohol of your choice. For materials, you’ll need a cutting board, a knife, a funnel, and these BOTTLES!

We have loved these swing-top glass bottles from Amazon (affiliate link). They are the perfect size to fit your vanilla beans and the perfect size for gifting! I know you’ll appreciate the swing-top, no twisting necessary!

Oh! Another great thing about these bottles: they come with a funnel, label stickers, and a chalk pen! I love to use the labels to mark the date we start the vanilla and what combo of beans and alcohol is in the bottle.

When you’re ready, fill each bottle with 8oz. of alcohol (vodka, rum, or bourbon are popular choices!). Add 20 grams of vanilla beans (affiliate link), close the swing-top lid, add a sticker label, and let her rest! We like to give the bottle a gentle shake every month, but other than that, it doesn’t need your attention.

And six months later you’ll have the most thoughtful, homemade gift!

I buy these bottles every year and don’t see that changing anytime soon, they are just that good.

Let’s make vanilla together this year! You will love it!