I made these bottles of homemade vanilla extract to hand out to our family and new neighbors for the holidays and everyone seemed to really like them!  They appreciated that it was both homemade and useful.  Plus, the extract is easy to make; it is literally just vodka and vanilla beans.  The problem is that you need to let the mixture sit for at least 2-3 months, so there is nothing last-minute about it.  But still, it's so nice to see the little vanilla beans (the "caviar" if you will) floating around reminding you how good they will make your fresh baked goods taste.  Even when it isn't the holidays, you should always have some of this is the cabinet.  Just keep topping it off with vodka and replacing the beans and it will be your never ending supply of extract!

Homemade Vanilla Extract

Jar or bottle Vanilla Beans Vodka

Put beans in the bottle and cover with vodka.  Use about 5 beans per cup of vodka.  Store in a cool, dark place, and shake the bottle every week or so.  Leave for at least 2-3 months.

Source: Beanilla