Vanilla extract is used in many recipes. If you do not have it at home or prefer to use something else, it is useful to know which alternatives are available. In this article, we explain everything about vanilla substitutes so you can easily make the right choice in the future. Read on to find out more!
What is vanilla extract?
Before discussing substitutes for vanilla extract, it is helpful to know what vanilla extract actually is and what it does in baked goods. Vanilla extract is made from vanilla pods and is liquid. This makes it easy to add to recipes and it provides a delicious sweet flavour. It may happen that you do not have vanilla extract on hand or that you are looking for an alternative for other reasons. That is why we explain below which substitutes you can use.
Which vanilla substitutes can replace vanilla extract?
Are you in the middle of baking and realise that you have run out of vanilla extract? Then it is helpful to know what you can use instead. You can replace the extract with vanilla flavouring, vanilla sugar, a vanilla pod or vanilla paste. However, these products cannot always be substituted one-to-one because they have different consistencies. Below, we explain how to best replace vanilla extract with each product.
Vanilla paste
Vanilla paste is a thick, syrupy substance made from vanilla extract and the seeds from vanilla pods. Because of its concentrated flavour, this paste works very well in recipes. One of the advantages of vanilla paste is that you can substitute it one-to-one for vanilla extract. If a recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, you can simply use 1 teaspoon of vanilla paste instead. The reverse also applies: if you want to replace vanilla paste, you can substitute it one-to-one with vanilla extract.
Vanilla sugar
You can also choose to replace vanilla extract with vanilla sugar. If a recipe requires 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, we recommend replacing it with 2 teaspoons of vanilla sugar. Keep in mind that there are two different types of vanilla sugar. One is made with real vanilla, while the other is made with artificial vanilla flavouring. Not only will you notice a difference in flavour, but also a significant difference in price. However, vanilla extract can only be properly replaced with vanilla sugar made from real vanilla — the more expensive variety.
Vanilla pod
Vanilla pods contain small seeds that hold a lot of vanilla flavour and aroma. Because of this, you only need a small amount to achieve a rich taste. To replace 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract in a recipe, half to one third of a vanilla pod is usually enough. Always taste the batter to check whether the desired flavour has been reached.
Vanilla flavouring
Vanilla flavouring is sometimes confused with vanilla extract, but it is certainly not the same. Vanilla flavouring is also known as vanilla essence and has a much milder taste. This is because the flavouring is not made from real vanilla, but from artificial vanilla flavour. As a result, it is much cheaper than vanilla extract, but you will definitely notice the difference. You cannot substitute vanilla extract one-to-one with vanilla flavouring, as it simply has a less intense vanilla taste. Therefore, we recommend using 2 teaspoons of vanilla flavouring instead of 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
Shop vanilla at Baktotaal.com!
Do you need one of the vanilla products mentioned above for a recipe? Then it is useful to know where you can buy them. At Baktotaal.com you will find an extensive range of vanilla products. From delicious extracts to vanilla sugar, and from vanilla paste to vanilla pods, you will find it all with us. We even offer vanilla products in both large and small packages, so you can easily get the quantity you need. Discover and shop our vanilla range here!
