Refilling my vanilla extract. I've been soaking vanilla beans in alcohol for the past few years, and I've had a nearly unlimited supply of vanilla extract available for baking. Since vanilla extract costs something like $10 to $12 an ounce these days, this is a much more cost effective way to have vanilla extract in your kitchen. I started by using vodka, but switched to spiced rum about three or four years ago, and the the results have been delicious. I look for high-proof spiced rum for use with vanilla extract.