Tue, 05 May 2026 17:01:54 +0000

Does Vanilla Extract Expire? The Shocking Truth You Need to Know Now! If you're a home cook or enthusiastic baker, vanilla extract is probably one of your most relied-on ingredients. But here’s a question that fundamentals-focused cooks are beginning to ask: Does vanilla extract expire? The answer might surprise you—and knowing it could save you money and reduce kitchen waste. ### The Hidden Shelf Life of Vanilla Extract Contrary to popular belief, vanilla extract does expire, though not in the way most people expect. Unlike fresh vanilla beans, which can last years with proper storage, commercial vanilla extract before alcohol tends to have a shelf life of 1 to 2 years, after which its potency declines significantly.