How to Make Vanilla Sugar - Easy 30 Minute Process (2024)

FAQs

What if I don't have vanilla sugar? ›

Substitute vanilla extract for vanilla in a 1:1 ratio for the vanilla flavor however add some extra sugar. To mimic the flavor and texture of vanilla sugar, mix ¼ teaspoon of vanilla extract with one tablespoon of granulated sugar and substitute it for one tablespoon of vanilla sugar.

Vanilla sugar is a simple recipe of granulated sugar infused with vanilla beans. There is nothing quite as simple or versatile as homemade vanilla sugar. Vanilla sugar in baking can be utilized in a variety of desserts; from apple pies, snickerdoodles and crème brûlée to light and airy pavlova's.

One trick we've long relied on to speed up the vanilla extraction process is gently heating the alcohol. The only problem is that this is a delicate process—you can't let the alcohol get too hot. Heat can damage the volatile flavor compounds in vanilla and vaporize the liquor if it reaches 170 F.

You can purchase vanilla sugar in some specialty stores, but it's really easy to create at home. Use homemade vanilla sugar as a 1:1 replacement for regular sugar to add flavor in your coffee, tea, or baking recipes. If you try it out, I have free printable labels you can use below.

Whether you're working on a sweet or savory dish, you can use many alternative ingredients to build flavor in place of vanilla. This includes maple syrup, herbs, and fruit zest.

A vanilla bean has no taste or smell until it is processed. Beans are processed by drying and storing them until a chemical change called fermentation takes place. Fermentation creates crystals of a chemical called vanillin. Vanillin is what gives vanilla its taste and smell.

With the price of vanilla constantly fluctuating, it's very cost efficient to make your own. Plus, you can control the strength of its flavor. This is KEY because many pricey store-bought options lack the essential depth of flavor that makes good vanilla… good vanilla.

For the best flavor, let the beans steep for 6 months or up to 12 months. However, you can use the extract after 2 months, it just won't be as strong. Once the extract is ready, you can transfer the liquid to 4-ounce glass bottles for easy use or gifting. Place a piece of vanilla bean in each bottle if desired.

My vanilla extract isn't getting dark. Why? Answer #1: Time. If your beans have only been soaking for a few weeks, just give them more time.

Why is too much vanilla extract bad? ›

The alcohol level of flavoring extracts like vanilla is enough to lead to central nervous system depression, just like if you were drinking hard alcohol. This means: You may start to feel your breathing slow down and grow more shallow. You'll also experience symptoms like dilated pupils and a warming sensation.

With Vodka, you get the taste of the pure vanilla bean, as the alcohol is completely tasteless. With Rum, you get a very sweet taste and the maximum vanilla taste. With Bourbon, while you do get a wonderfully enhanced vanilla taste, there are specific smoky notes that emanate through the extract.

Maple Syrup or Honey

Its rich and sweet flavor makes a decent vanilla bean substitute and a great vanilla extract substitute. Honey's floral and bright sweetness is delightful in recipes like blondies, muffins, quick breads, cakes, and cookies.

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.

While vanilla sugar is a great flavour enhancer, it's not vanilla powder. Vanilla sugar can be used as a substitute for regular sugar in baking and cooking, and can even be used to sweeten your morning coffee. But it can't be used in the same way or with the same levels of success.

You can also use vanilla bean paste, which is thicker than vanilla extract: Add 1-2 tablespoons of vanilla bean paste to 100g of granulated sugar (or add less paste if you want a more subtle flavour) Stir the mixture well.