5 Substitutes for Vanilla Extract

Whether you've found yourself midway through making a batter and realized you're out of vanilla extract or you've spotted its pricey bottle on the shelf, there are times when a substitution is needed. But what should you do when you're faced with that dilemma?

What Is Vanilla Extract?

Vanilla extract is a key flavoring for many desserts and baked goods, made by soaking vanilla beans in a mixture of alcohol and water. This process extracts the beans' natural flavor and rich color, which is then infused into your favorite recipes once the beans are strained out.

Extracts made with synthetic vanillin are labeled as 'imitation vanilla.' While the flavor difference is noticeable, investing in the real thing gives a rich, authentic taste. Plus, pure vanilla extract has the added benefit of enhancing other flavors in your recipes.

Vanilla Extract Substitutes

Vanilla extract is primarily used as a flavoring, and while it's an important ingredient in many recipes, it's not as essential to baking as something like baking soda. Its absence won't ruin a dish, and substituting it is more about personal taste. Here are five alternative options to consider.

A Different Extract

Almond extract is a common and natural alternative to vanilla, and it can be found in most pantries. Its nutty flavor is a great match for many dishes that call for vanilla, though it is more potent, so it's best to reduce the amount used by about half. The same rule applies to other extracts such as coconut, hazelnut, or rum.

Liquor or Liqueur

Vanilla extract does contain alcohol, but since the alcohol content is minimal after cooking, you can substitute it with other alcoholic beverages like bourbon, brandy, or rum. If you're looking for a vanilla flavor, try amaro like Dimmi di Milano or a vanilla liqueur such as Licor 43. Though these spirits have higher alcohol content, they’ll lose most of their alcohol when baked or cooked.

Maple Syrup

Pure maple syrup is another excellent replacement for vanilla, as it has a similarly mild and subtle flavor. You can use it as a one-to-one substitute without much of a flavor difference.

Espresso Powder

Espresso powder or instant coffee can be a great substitute, especially if you dissolve it in hot water and let it cool before adding it to your recipe, just like liquid vanilla extract. It will slightly alter the overall flavor, but the change will be minimal, particularly in chocolate-based dishes.

Warming Spices

If you're after a flavor shift, try replacing vanilla with a warming spice like cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom. You won’t usually swap them in equal amounts; for instance, if a recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of vanilla, use about 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of spice in its place.