Vanilla Extract Substitute Ideas

Vanilla extract is a baking necessity, adding flavor to countless sweet treats. But what happens when you’re in the middle of a recipe and realize you’re out? Don’t worry, bakers; there are many easy ways to come up with a vanilla extract substitute you can use in a pinch.

Whether you have a different extract on hand, some pantry staples or even a touch of another spice, there are several options available. In this article, we’ll explore a variety of substitutes, along with tips on using them for the best results in your baking.

Why vanilla extract is necessary

Vanilla extract — and I’m talking good, pure, real vanilla extract — gives certain qualities to baked goods and desserts. Here are some reasons why vanilla extract is needed:

• It adds flavor.
• It adds moisture to give baked goods their soft, fluffy texture.
• It enhances the flavor of other ingredients and adds depth. Without it, the other flavors taste flat and bland.

Common vanilla extract substitutes

Vanilla extract substitutes can change a recipe’s flavor, texture or consistency. Nonetheless, sometimes you’ve got to go with what you have on hand. So here’s how to use these common vanilla substitutes when extract is nowhere to be found.

Vanilla bean

Use the inside, soft pods of a vanilla bean instead of extract. Slice the bean in half the long way and scrape the soft interior with a spoon. If you are using it in a light-colored batter, you will see little black flecks. One bean pod replaces three teaspoons of extract. You can use this substitute in puddings and custards.

Vanilla essence or flavoring

Chances are you have something called vanilla flavoring in your pantry. Maybe you bought it as a less-expensive version of legit extract. Well, vanilla essence is pretty much the same thing. However, because it is made synthetically, it doesn’t have a flavor as strong as extract does.

Because of this, use two teaspoons to replace one teaspoon of extract. This is a great substitute when what you’re making doesn’t feature vanilla as the primary flavor, such as oatmeal cookies, pumpkin tiramisu or chocolate cake.

Almond milk alternative

Vanilla almond milk can replace the vanilla flavor in your recipe. The flavor will be more subtle, so for every teaspoon of vanilla the recipe calls for, use 2 teaspoons of vanilla almond milk.

Vanilla sugar substitute

Vanilla sugar is something you concoct at home by mixing granulated sugar and vanilla bean. It is also a common substitute for extract. To use it and not end up with a dish that is overly sweet, you will have to reduce the amount of the other sugars you add to the recipe based on how much of this sugar mixture you add. As a replacement for extract, use three times more vanilla sugar than the amount of extract the recipe calls for.

Vanilla liquor

The alcohol in vanilla liquor will cook off while baking, just like when using vanilla extract. It can be used as a one-to-one replacement for vanilla extract. 

Vanilla-flavored syrup

If you’ve ever ordered a flat white drink at Starbucks or another coffee shop, then you’ve experienced vanilla-flavored syrup. It’s also used in cocktails, iced tea and baked goods. In this instance, when you’re out of extract, you can use it as a one-for-one replacement for vanilla extract.

Other flavored extract to substitute

Other extracts will also change the overall flavor of whatever you’re making. Orange, peppermint or coffee extract work well in chocolate cake and other baked goods. Start out by substituting half a teaspoon for every teaspoon of vanilla the recipe calls for. Gradually add in more until the taste is to your liking. Here are a few other alternatives to consider.

Almond extract

Almond extract has a strong almond flavor but can be used as a vanilla extract substitute. Because of its strong flavor, you will need to use half the amount. If the recipe calls for one teaspoon of vanilla, you will need to use half a teaspoon of almond extract.

Pure maple syrup

Maple syrup has a sweet flavor and aroma similar to vanilla extract. It is best in pancakes, oatmeal cookies and blondies. It can be used as a one-for-one replacement for vanilla extract. Some of our recipes featuring maple syrup include:

• Easy Maple Oatmeal Cookies
• Cake Mix Maple Pecan Cupcakes
• Instant Pot Apple Cinnamon Cheesecake

Honey

Honey is a common pantry staple that most people have on hand. It adds a bright floral sweetness to desserts and can enhance the texture of baked goods. Honey may alter the taste slightly, and your baked goods may turn out more dense and stickier. It browns faster than vanilla extract, so keep a close eye on your baked goods. Honey can be used as a one-for-one vanilla extract substitute.

Coffee

Brewed coffee, espresso powder or instant coffee works best as a substitute for vanilla extract when making chocolate desserts. Coffee enhances the chocolate flavor and makes it taste richer and more chocolatey. A little goes a long way, so start with a pinch or a drop and gradually add more until the flavor is to your liking.

“Instead of vanilla, whenever I bake anything chocolate, I use room-temperature espresso or strong brewed coffee,” says Michelle Price of Honest and Truly. “It makes the chocolate taste richer and deeper, and it’s a quick and easy swap.”

Bourbon

Bourbon and vanilla are both a combination of vanillin and alcohol, so you will get the same sweetness and flavor enhancement with bourbon as when using vanilla. However, when the alcohol evaporates, bourbon has more caramel-like notes. Bourbon can be used as a one-for-one replacement for vanilla extract.

Brandy

Brandy is sweeter than bourbon and vanilla but can also be used as a substitute. It is best in recipes that contain banana or pumpkin. Brandy can be used as a one-for-one vanilla extract substitute.

Rum

Vanilla rum works best, but any dark rum will do. Dark rum is smoky, sweet, spicy and works well with rich flavors such as pineapple and coconut. Rum can be used as a one-for-one replacement for vanilla extract. 

Portions of this article originally appeared on Food Drink Life.