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Ingredient substitute

What can you use instead of vanilla extract?

Vanilla paste, Vanilla bean and Maple syrup are the easiest swaps. Below: 5 options with the right amount to use, what changes in the dish and which diets they suit.

The quick answer

Vanilla paste. Use the same amount. Concentrated. Contains seeds. Best for frostings.

Adjust: Direct swap. Better flavor.

  1. Vanilla paste

    Drop-in swap

    Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

    Concentrated. Contains seeds. Best for frostings.

    Flavor
    Same as extract.
    Texture
    Adds visible seeds.
    Moisture
    None.
    Adjust
    Direct swap. Better flavor.
    Best for
    Any recipe

    vegan

  2. Vanilla bean

    Drop-in swap

    Use ⅓ of the amount (ratio 1:3)

    3 tsp extract = 1 whole bean. Scrape seeds.

    Flavor
    Intense.
    Texture
    Adds tiny seeds as visual.
    Moisture
    None.
    Adjust
    Split bean, scrape seeds, add both seeds and pod to liquid.
    Best for
    Custards, Ice cream, Premium baking

    vegan

  3. Maple syrup

    Small adjustment

    Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

    Different but pleasant.

    Flavor
    Maple.
    Texture
    Adds moisture.
    Moisture
    Very high.
    Adjust
    Reduce sugar slightly if maple syrup is in play.
    Best for
    Pancakes, Waffles

    vegan

  4. Bourbon or dark rum

    Small adjustment

    Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

    Alcohol-based. Similar warmth.

    Flavor
    Alcohol warmth.
    Texture
    Same liquid profile.
    Moisture
    None remaining alcohol.
    Adjust
    Cook off alcohol if needed.
    Best for
    Desserts, Sauces

  5. Almond extract

    Changes flavor or texture

    Use ½ of the amount (ratio 1:2)

    Very different flavor. Use half.

    Flavor
    Marzipan, almond.
    Texture
    Same.
    Moisture
    None.
    Adjust
    Use half. Different flavor.
    Best for
    Baked goods, Puddings

    vegan

Common questions

What is the best substitute for vanilla extract?

Vanilla paste is the closest swap. Use the same amount. Concentrated. Contains seeds. Best for frostings.

What is a vegan substitute for vanilla extract?

Good vegan options are Vanilla paste, Vanilla bean, Maple syrup and Almond extract.

How much should I use instead of vanilla extract?

It depends on the swap. Vanilla paste: Use the same amount. Vanilla bean: Use ⅓ of the amount. Maple syrup: Use the same amount.

Recipes that use vanilla extract

Scale it to your recipe

Enter the amount you need and the substitution tool works out the exact quantity. Or ask the chef how the swap will change your dish.

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