Which swap for which job
| Use | Pick | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Baking | Extract | Standard. |
Vanilla bean substitute
Quick answer
Use 2 tablespoons of vanilla extract for 1 whole vanilla bean. That is 1 tablespoon per half bean, which is the chart ratio. Extract has no seeds, so custards and ice cream lose the flecks. Extract contains alcohol, so choose an alcohol-free brand if you avoid it.
How much do you need?
vanilla beanvanilla beans
Fractions work: 1 1/2, ¾, 0.5. The amounts below update as you type.
Type a number, like 1 or 1 1/2.
What to use
No option here matches every box you ticked. Untick one to see more.
Vanilla extract
- Vegan
- Dairy-free
- Gluten-free
- Nut-free
- Egg-free
- Contains alcohol
- 2 tbsp 30 ml vanilla extract
- Best for
- Baking, custards, ice cream bases.
- What changes
- No black flecks. Slightly less perfume.
Diet labels describe the ingredients as normally made. Check packages for gluten and allergens. Some refined sugar is filtered with bone char, which matters if you eat vegan.
Questions
What about vanilla paste?
No chart gives a ratio. Follow the jar.
Sources
- K-State Research and Extension, Ingredient Substitutions (L730, 2012)
- Colorado State University Extension, Ingredient Substitutions (Fact Sheet 9.329)
Ratios come from these sources, in our words. Where they disagree, we say so or pick the amount that matches tested results. Ratios are a starting point. Taste and adjust.
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