Vanilla Extract Substitutes (10+ options) - Celebrating Sweets (2024)

FAQs

Vanilla Extract Substitutes (10+ options) - Celebrating Sweets? ›

maple extract. almond extract. rum, bourbon, brandy, or amaretto. vanilla coffee syrup.

If you don't have any on hand, you can almost always omit the vanilla without impacting the final texture of your baked goods; although the rich flavor extract—or any form of vanilla—brings will certainly be altered. Just remember one thing: flavor comes first.

Butter extract, peppermint, rum, or any fruit-flavored extract can be used at a 1:1 ratio, depending on the recipe and how strong you want the flavor to be. If the extract you're using is already pretty strong, like peppermint or mint extract, try using ½ teaspoon for every teaspoon of vanilla.

Vanilla essence is a more processed product that's made using artificial flavors and colors. Vanilla extract, on the other hand, is made primarily from vanilla beans soaked in ethyl alcohol and water, so it tends to have a stronger vanilla flavor.

Vanilla does offer more than just a bit of floral flavor. Sometimes it's a flavor enhancer and sometimes it's a flavor balancer. But to be honest, unless it's a vanilla cookie, it's not a true dealbreaker. Especially if you're making cookies that have lots of other flavors going on, like coconut or dark chocolate.

5. Maple syrup. Many people like to use maple syrup as a replacement for vanilla, using 1 tablespoon (15 mL) of syrup for each 1 tablespoon (15 mL) of extract. To some, the scent and the hint of sweetness from maple syrup are reminiscent of vanilla.

Warming Spices

Another flavor-changing option would be to simply trade the vanilla for a warming spice like cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom. Of course, you will not typically want to swap one-for-one. If your recipe calls for 1 teaspoon vanilla, consider adding 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of spice in it's place.

you can use maple syrup. if you're going for that vanillay taste, you can use almond extract, but I would use a lesser quantity. than what the recipe calls for. you also could use lemon extract.

How do you use vanilla powder instead of extract? ›

You can substitute vanilla powder for vanilla extract (or vice versa) in any recipe. Use a 1:1 ratio when making this substitution. If a recipe calls for one teaspoon of vanilla extract, just use one teaspoon of powder. Easy!

For most oven–based recipes, such as cookies, cakes, brownies, cupcakes and tarts, it's near impossible to tell the difference between imitation and pure vanilla extract. Therefore, using a 1:1 swap will work just fine.

Vanilla extract and how important is it for the baking process. The primary purpose of vanilla extract is to add flavour to baked goods. Lacking it, baked goods tend to have a bland and boring taste. Vanilla extract can also contribute moisture to create a soft and fluffy texture.

you can use maple syrup. if you're going for that vanillay taste, you can use almond extract, but I would use a lesser quantity. than what the recipe calls for. you also could use lemon extract.

Lemon extracts are not sour rather it has a distinct flavour and aroma to them. This citrus fruit is widely available and makes for a great alternative to vanilla extract. Make some lemon tarts, cupcakes, and pies or even use it in the frosting and get a flavoursome dessert.