After making my homemade bourbon vanilla extract, I still had a couple of vanilla beans left over. Instead of letting them sit in the pantry, I wanted to make something I could enjoy right away. So I made this homemade maple vanilla milk.
I originally made it to use as a creamer for my morning matcha, but after one sip I realized it was just as good on its own. It tastes like melted vanilla ice cream in the best possible way. The fresh vanilla gives it a rich, creamy flavor that’s hard to get from store-bought vanilla extract. You can use vanilla extract in a pinch, but the whole beans give you that beautiful speckled look and a depth of flavor that’s hard to replicate.
If you’re already buying vanilla beans, this is one of my favorite ways to make the most of them.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich vanilla flavor from whole vanilla beans
- Naturally sweetened with maple syrup
- Perfect for coffee, matcha, or enjoying by the glass
- A simple way to use extra vanilla beans
- Ready with just three ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 whole vanilla beans
- 1 to 2 tablespoons maple syrup, to taste
Whole milk creates the creamiest texture, but oat milk works especially well if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.


Homemade Maple Vanilla Milk
Equipment
- Small saucepan
- Sharp knife
- Spoon
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 whole Madagascar vanilla beans
- 1 to 2 tablespoons maple syrup
Instructions
- Split the vanilla beans lengthwise and scrape the seeds into a small saucepan.
- Add the scraped pods, whole milk, and maple syrup.
- Warm over low heat for 5 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Heat until warm, but do not simmer or boil.
- Pour the milk into a glass jar, including the vanilla beans and seeds.
- Refrigerate overnight to allow the vanilla to continue infusing.
- Remove the vanilla beans before serving.
- Shake well before each use, as the vanilla seeds will naturally settle.
Video
Notes
- Infusing overnight creates a richer vanilla flavor.
- Whole milk gives the creamiest texture.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Delicious in coffee, matcha, or enjoyed on its own.

Storage
Store in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

More Ways to Use Vanilla Beans
If you’re looking for more ways to use vanilla beans, you might also enjoy:
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