Updated: Jan. 07, 2023
Don't make an extra trip to the store. There are plenty of ways to make a vanilla substitute without sacrificing flavor or quality.
There are a few pantry staples I take for granted: baking soda, molasses and vanilla extract. The containers are so large, I just assume I have some on hand. But, sometimes someone uses up the last few drops of vanilla without putting it on the shopping list, and my pantry shelves lay bare when I’m in the middle of mixing up a batch of cookies. Don’t make an emergency run to the store! You can create a vanilla substitute with ingredients you already have on hand.
When you do run to the store, here are the vanilla brands the Taste of Home Test Kitchen recommends.
Vanilla Substitutes
Here’s what you can use in place of vanilla in recipes.
Maple Syrup
My go-to substitute for vanilla extract is maple syrup. It has the same sweet aroma, and it does a pretty good job of mimicking vanilla’s mellow flavor. Use the same amount of maple syrup as you would vanilla, and you’ll barely notice the difference. (This is why vanilla is so expensive.)
Almond Extract
Almond extract is significantly more potent than vanilla, but it will provide a similar flavor profile if you use it sparingly. You’ll only need to use half the amount of almond extract, and you might be surprised at how much you like its nutty flavor in your favorite vanilla recipes.
Bourbon, Brandy or Rum
Believe it or not, there is alcohol in vanilla (here’s how much). To make the extract, vanilla beans are soaked in alcohol to extract its enticing flavor and aroma. Swapping in the same amount of a flavorful spirit makes a fantastic substitute. And as long as whatever you’re making is baked, the alcohol content will cook out leaving you with all of the flavor and none of the booze.
Other Spices
If vanilla isn’t the star of your recipe, it’s likely added to create depth of flavor. Try swapping in another spice, like cinnamon, cardamom or nutmeg. These spices can be strong, so we recommend starting with a pinch.
Instant Coffee or Espresso Powder
You won’t miss the flavor of vanilla in rich, chocolaty treats if you add coffee or espresso powder instead. You won’t need to add much; a pinch of espresso powder goes a long way.
Citrus Zest
Zesting a lime, lemon or orange is a great way to add a burst of fresh flavor to your favorite baked goods. The juice is too acidic, but the zest is super flavorful and it won’t water down your dough, either.
Up Next: Bean, Paste or Extract: Are You Using the Right Kind of Vanilla for Your Recipe?
FAQs
How to fix a cake that doesn't have vanilla extract? Use honey or syrup in a 1 to 1 ratio. Use maple syrup. Use almond extract in lesser quantity.
What to do if you forgot to add vanilla extract? ›
How to fix a cake that doesn't have vanilla extract? Use honey or syrup in a 1 to 1 ratio. Use maple syrup. Use almond extract in lesser quantity.
What is a substitute for vanilla paste? ›
For example, 1 tablespoon vanilla extract can be substituted for 1 tablespoon vanilla bean paste. Pro tip: If a recipe calls for one whole vanilla bean pod OR 1 tablespoon vanilla powder, you can use the same 1:1 ratio and substitute either with 1 tablespoon pure vanilla bean paste.
What brings out vanilla flavor? ›
A final note: “If you're using vanilla, you should also be using salt, even in a dessert, to help bring the vanilla flavor out from the background and let it shine,” says Ang.
Is it OK to use vanilla flavor instead of extract? ›
If a recipe calls for 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract, you can swap in 2 teaspoons of imitation vanilla or vanilla flavoring to get a similar flavor. So, no matter what extract you haveon hand, it should be easy to get that warm, vanilla flavor you love in your baked and non–baked treats!
What happens if you skip vanilla? ›
You will change the flavour, usually not in a good way, but depending on the recipe you may be able to use some other flavouring instead. It'll taste different that way of course, but leaving flavouring out may make the result taste bland or flat.
What are the rules for vanilla extract? ›
In vanilla extract the content of ethyl alcohol is not less than 35 percent by volume and the content of vanilla constituent, as defined in § 169.3(c), is not less than one unit per gallon.
Can vanilla extract be left out? ›
What is the best way to store vanilla extract? Vanilla extract is best stored at a cool to moderate room temperature (60-80°F) and in a dark environment. Kitchen cupboards are usually a great place to keep your vanilla extract, as long as you do not store it over a stove or near a heat source.
Can I replace vanilla extract with honey? ›
Both of these sweet vanilla substitutes are thicker in texture, so keep this in mind as you think ahead to your desired finished product. For every 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract called for in your recipe, use about 1 tablespoon of honey or maple syrup.
Can I replace vanilla extract with 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.
How to make something taste like vanilla? ›
My go-to substitute for vanilla extract is maple syrup. It has the same sweet aroma, and it does a pretty good job of mimicking vanilla's mellow flavor. Use the same amount of maple syrup as you would vanilla, and you'll barely notice the difference. (This is why vanilla is so expensive.)
What is imitation vanilla extract? ›
Ninety-nine percent of the world's vanilla extract is fake imitation vanilla that's not a product of the plant itself. Instead, it's flavored primarily with synthetic vanillin (a lab-produced version of the same chemical compound that occurs naturally in real vanilla).
What is the main source of vanilla flavoring? ›
The vanilla orchid produces a fruit pod, the vanilla bean, which is the raw material for vanilla flavorings. The cultivation of vanilla is labor intensive, and outside of Mexico requires hand pollination of the orchid and consistent growing conditions.
Can you use vanilla powder instead of extract? ›
Yes! 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.
Can I substitute golden syrup for vanilla extract? ›
Golden Syrup as a Vanilla Extract Substitute
My personal favourite was to use golden syrup if you're out of vanilla essence. A teaspoon of golden syrup in your recipe will provide that extra bit of depth, with its deeply sweet treacle flavour. You can always add more or less, depending on your flavour preference.
Can I use alcohol instead of vanilla extract? ›
Simply swap out the vanilla extract and replace with 1 to 2 times that amount in alcohol. Example: If a recipe calls for 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, replace with 1 to 2 teaspoons dark rum.
