What is vanilla extract?
Store-bought vanilla extract is a liquid that’s made from marinating vanilla beans in a water and alcohol solution, in this instance, the alcohol being ethanol. It provides an aromatic flavour and depth mainly to sweet recipes, such as desserts and baked goods. It boasts warm and comforting notes, bringing a good balance of flavour.
How to replace it
Choose something that’s full of flavour and has a taste similar to vanilla…or not! You can even try something a little different, so long as the swap makes sense and complements the recipe you are making. We’ve got a few options for you, but note that you’ll have to experiment when it comes to the correct ratio and find the right amount to suit your taste. Whichever you go with, it’ll certainly give your dessert a different personality. Some good substitutes include:
- Citrus zest: Whether orange, lemon, lime or grapefruit, grated zest can bring freshness and vibrancy to a dessert, particularly in cakes and cookies, whipped cream and custard.
- Ground ginger or cinnamon: These two warming spices are great at providing that warm and cozy side that vanilla extract can bring. They’re also ideal for cakes and cookies.
- Sweet clover: This wild plant is essentially Quebec’s answer to vanilla! It boasts both vanilla and almond aromas, and you can use the same amount of sweet clover extract in a recipe as you would vanilla.
- Other vanilla products: Other store-bought products exist in the world of vanilla, such as vanilla paste, vanilla sugar, and vanilla powder. We’re particular fans of the latter, and you can use the same amount as you would vanilla extract. Just add it to your dry ingredients instead of the wet.
- Almond extract: Almond extract is a great substitute for vanilla extract, but given that it’s much more potent, be sure to use less than the amount of vanilla required in a recipe. Even a splash of amaretto can do the trick!
As for vanilla beans, they’re best used in recipes that include an infusion–such as a custard for ice cream or a pastry cream–to draw the maximum amount of flavour from them.
How to make homemade vanilla extract
A good way to ensure you don’t run out of vanilla extract is to just make your own. It’s pretty easy to do: simply use vanilla beans with the seeds scraped and let them steep in rum or vodka. As you use it, continue adding alcohol and more empty vanilla pods for a practically neverending supply!