How To Substitute For Vanilla Extract At Home

SomethingSwanky is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.

If you’re looking for a substitute for vanilla extract, you’ve come to the right place. This guide will show you how to make your own using common kitchen ingredients.

Substituting Vanilla

Why Use a Vanilla Substitute?

Many reasons can make someone need a vanilla extract substitute. They may run out of vanilla extract while baking, or simply enjoy experimenting using other ingredients.

Some pastry chefs prefer to use alcohol-free vanilla alternatives because they produce a distinct flavor profile than products with alcohol.

This is a good option for making light-colored cakes or frostings. In particular, brown batters can take on a vanilla flavor if they are flavored with regular vanilla extract.

There are many types of vanilla extracts that are non-alcoholic, including oils and powders.

Imitation vs. Pure Vanilla

Imitation vanilla extract can be less expensive and tastes better than pure vanilla extract. Although pure vanilla extract is more flavorful than imitation, it can be quite expensive.

Manufacturers claim imitation vanilla contains vanillin, synthetic ingredients, sweeteners, artificial colors, and preservatives. Pure vanilla extract can be made from water, alcohol, and sugar. It may also contain other ingredients.

Substitutes For Vanilla Extract

Vanilla extract is an essential flavoring agent in many desserts. However, there are many substitutes that can be used, depending on the recipe. While some substitutes may be more suitable for certain recipes than others, it is important to experiment to find the best option for each dish. Click To Tweet

Vanilla extract is extracted from the pods of the tropical vanilla orchid. Vanilla is a tiny, black, flavorful ingredient in the pods that give the liquid flavoring its deep, rich flavor. Vanilla extract is a vital ingredient in many desserts and baked goods for it imparts a subtly sweet and delicious flavor that enhances the flavors of other ingredients. 

There are many reasons to search for a substitute for vanilla extract. They may be out of vanilla extract, want a substitute for vanilla flavor, or just want an alcohol-free option. According to FDA regulations, vanilla extract cannot contain more than 35% alcohol and must only be made from vanilla beans.

Vanilla extract and its substitutes can have a strong flavor so make sure to use the right amount. You should be aware that concentration levels can vary between homemade products.

1. Vanilla Paste

Vanilla paste is a mixture made from vanilla extract, sugar, and chopped-up pieces. It has a strong taste and smooth texture. It has black flecks that are from vanilla beans.

Vanilla paste manufacturers claim that paste can be used to replace extract in a ratio of 1:1.

2. Vanilla Powder

Vanilla powder is a light-colored, finely ground powder made from whole vanilla beans.

It has a stronger flavor than extract and can be used in frostings, cakes, or any other recipe that requires extract.

The vanilla powder can also be used in recipes that have been cooked at high temperatures without losing any of its flavors. The vanilla powder can be used to sweeten cereals and oatmeal.

For the substitution of the two ingredients, it is recommended to use a 1:1 ratio of vanilla extract to vanilla powder

3. Vanilla Sugar

Vanilla sugar is sugar that has had vanilla beans infused into it. It is not easy to find it in the United States, but it is quite common in Europe.

Vanilla sugar can be used to replace regular sugar in baking. Vanilla sugar doesn’t need any extra extract because it already has the natural vanilla flavor.

It can be used to add sweetness and vanilla flavor to cakes, pies, and cookies.

4. Almond Extract

Almond extract is stronger than vanilla and can be used in certain desserts. Too much almond extract can cause bitter taste.

Almond extract is used in cookies, pound cakes, french toast, and other recipes.

Almond extract has a strong flavor so people need to be cautious when using it.

5. Maple Syrup

Pure maple syrup is a sweet and rich alternative to vanilla extract in baked goods due to its sweet, rich taste. Maple syrup has moisture and binding qualities.

Maple syrup can be used in individual recipes, depending on the taste. However, it has a different flavor to vanilla extract.

6. Honey

Honey is a sweetener with a bright, floral taste. It can be used in desserts as a sweetener to improve the texture and sweetness, just like maple syrup.

You can sweeten your dessert by replacing 1 teaspoon vanilla extract with 1 cup honey.

7. Bourbon, Brandy, Rum, or Vanilla Liquor

Vanilla extract can also be used in spirits like brandy, vanilla liquor, and rum.

You can substitute 1 tsp vanilla essence for 2 tsp alcohol. These ingredients should not ever be used in recipes for children, pregnant women, or those with an allergy to alcohol.

While most of the alcohol will go to waste when heated, some can be preserved in non-bake or minimally baked dishes.

8. Vanilla-Flavored Plant-Based Milk

Vanilla-flavored almond, soy, or oat milk can be substituted for vanilla extract, but the flavor is subtler.

1 tsp vanilla extract to 1 teaspoon milk

A Final Thought

If they are looking for a particular flavor or texture, some people may opt to substitute vanilla extract. Some people may prefer an alcohol-free alternative.

It is crucial that you use the right substitution amounts and that the substitution is appropriate for the recipe. You can experiment with different ratios and combinations.