Baked Goods
How long does pure vanilla extract last?
Pure vanilla extract keeps 2 years sealed and 12 months after opening — it’s alcohol, so what you’re watching is the aroma flattening, not the bottle spoiling.
Pantry
How long does it keep?
| Pantry | 2 years |
|---|---|
| Pantry, opened | 12 months |
Can it sit out?
Pure vanilla extract is shelf-stable, so sitting out at room temperature isn’t the safety question — storage time is.
How to tell if pure vanilla extract has gone bad
- A thin, boozy smell with no vanilla behind it
- Liquid gone pale and watery-looking
- Sediment on the bottom or a film across the top
- A crusted cap stuck fast to the bottle
When in doubt, throw it out.
Store it upright in a dark cupboard with the cap tight — every open bottle loses a little alcohol, and the aroma leaves with it.
Quick answers
How long does pure vanilla extract last?
Pure vanilla extract keeps 2 years sealed and 12 months after opening — it’s alcohol, so what you’re watching is the aroma flattening, not the bottle spoiling.
How long can pure vanilla extract sit out?
Sitting out at room temperature isn’t the safety question for pure vanilla extract — storage time is.