Substitute for Vanilla Bean Paste

Vanilla bean paste, although blended from vanilla extract and vanilla bean powder, has a few additives to achieve this particular texture. The most important difference comes from the fact that vanilla extract contains pieces of vanilla which make the flavor much stronger and look more attractive. Vanilla bean paste becomes an indispensable ingredient for cooking and a unique accompaniment because of its charming flavor. While that is the case for a few factors, this article will be an ideal destination for whatever reasons you may have for a substitute for vanilla bean paste.

Substitute for Vanilla Bean Paste

In this section, we will delve into how to generally find a substitute for vanilla bean paste.

Here are the Top 10 substitutes for vanilla bean paste: 

1. Vanilla Extract
   

Obtained directly from vanilla beans, vanilla extract is a perfect substitute for vanilla bean paste. Its liquid consistency makes it an ideal substitute to use in batters, sauces, and desserts to add flavor.

Use the same amount of vanilla extract as vanilla bean paste. (1:1)

2. Vanilla Bean Powder
   

Vanilla bean powder is a product of the same source as vanilla bean paste, which is vanilla bean, so it is reasonable to make a suitable alternative to vanilla bean paste in our list. The main distinguishing feature is that vanilla powder is made from ground vanilla beans and therefore delivers a stronger punch of flavor than vanilla bean paste.

Use half the amount of vanilla bean powder compared to vanilla bean paste. In other words, use ½  teaspoon of the powder for each teaspoon of vanilla bean paste. (1:2)

3. Vanilla Essence
   

A suitable vanilla bean paste alternative that is worth trying out is vanilla essence. The texture of vanilla essence is the same as that of vanilla extract but with a lighter flavor due to its lower content of vanillin, a synthetic ingredient, which is used instead of the original vanilla bean.

Use a slightly larger amount to replace vanilla bean paste.

4. Vanilla Bean Pods
   
   

Vanilla bean pods are the main source of vanilla bean paste, so they can be a good substitute for vanilla bean paste, with a stronger flavor. Significantly, you buy vanilla pods that are of good quality from a reliable place as the freshness of the pods is a major factor in making them an excellent alternative to vanilla bean paste.

Use one vanilla bean pod for every 3 teaspoons (1 tablespoon) of vanilla bean paste. (1:3)

5. Vanilla Bean Syrup
   
   

Mixing vanilla bean extract with water and sugar creates a versatile syrup that can be used as a substitute for vanilla paste. Such sweetened syrup adds a complicated and rich flavor to drinks, desserts, and even savory delicacies.

6. Vanilla Extract and Sweetener
   
   

Blend vanilla extract with honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar to get a vanilla bean paste alternative. Adjust sweetness to taste.

7. Honey
   

Shared in rich sweet taste and thick texture, honey comes as a perfect alternative to vanilla bean paste. 

Use the same amount of honey as vanilla bean paste. (1:1)

8. Vanilla Flavoring
   
   

As an artificial substitute for vanilla bean paste, vanilla flavoring provides the very same taste profile as vanilla bean paste. It comes in both liquid and powder form, and it is easy to use and gives you a consistent taste.

9. Vanilla Yogurt
   
   

For dairy-based recipes, vanilla yogurt can be an alternative to vanilla bean paste. It combines well with a diverse variety of recipes, from being added to cakes to being used as a marinade. Its creamy texture and tangy flavor render it versatile.

10. Vanilla Custard
    
    

Vanilla custard, which is a creamy dessert prepared by using milk, eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract, is a good substitute for vanilla bean paste. Its smooth texture and strong vanilla flavor make it suitable for many recipes where it adds richness and depth to dishes like cakes, tarts, and pastries.

Vegan Substitute for Vanilla Bean Paste

While vanilla bean paste typically consists of vanilla bean seeds which are suspended in syrup that includes sugar and sometimes additional flavorings, vegan alternatives of vanilla bean paste achieve the flavor profile without the use of any animal products. 

Here are vegan alternatives to vanilla bean paste:

1. Vanilla Flavored Almond
   
   

If a recipe calls for a liquid alternative, vanilla-flavored almonds can be used as a substitute for vanilla bean paste. This dairy-free milk alternative gives the vanilla flavor and a smooth texture, which makes the desserts, beverages, and breakfast dishes more tasty, making it one of the reliable vanilla bean paste substitutes.

Read Also: What to Substitute for Sumac

2. Maple Syrup
   
   

In recipes that require sweetness and depth, maple syrup can be the substitute for vanilla bean paste. Besides the powerful flavor of the maple syrup, it also demonstrates a thick texture that can be substituted for vanilla bean paste and adds complexity to various baked products, glazes, and even savory dishes.

Use equal amounts of maple syrup as that of vanilla bean paste. (1:1) 

3. Coconut Milk and Vanilla Extract
   
   

It is a great substitute for vanilla bean paste in dairy-free recipes because combining coconut milk with vanilla extract results in almost the same dense creaminess and flavor as vanilla bean paste.

Note: Another vegan substitute for vanilla bean paste includes previous examples of vanilla extract, vanilla bean pods, vanilla bean syrup, and vanilla bean powder.

Why Use a Substitute for Vanilla Bean Paste?

1. Accessibility

People in some areas may not have access to vanilla bean paste all the time and it may be hard to find it in stores.

2. Cost

Pure vanilla bean paste could be pricey, thus searching for an affordable substitute for vanilla bean paste may be a must. 

3. Dietary Restrictions

Some individuals may not be allowed to use vanilla bean paste because of its ingredients like sugars or milk products, so they are forced to search for suitable vanilla bean paste alternatives.

Read Also: Cardamom VS Coriander A Detailed Comparison

How Long Does Vanilla Bean Paste Last?

Proper storage is essential to maximize the shelf life of vanilla bean paste. When stored in a cool, dark place away from heat and moisture, unopened vanilla bean paste can last for up to two years. Once opened, it should be refrigerated to maintain freshness and flavor, where it can typically last for a year.

Note: Home-made vanilla bean paste has a shorter shelf-life, and it shouldn’t be refrigerated. Just store it in an airtight container, putting it away from humidity, light, and heat.

What Is the Texture of Vanilla Bean Paste?

Vanilla bean paste has a thicker, and more viscous texture than vanilla extract with visible vanilla seeds which are suspended throughout. Generally, its texture is like syrup, with a medium viscosity.

Where to Buy Vanilla Bean Paste?

You can purchase vanilla bean paste from the following sources:

1. Online Stores

 Many online stores offer a wide variety of vanilla bean paste.

2. Specialty Grocery Stores

These stores usually have different kinds of vanilla bean paste for baking enthusiasts.

3. Supermarkets

Larger grocery stores can display vanilla bean paste in their baking or spice sections of the store.

4. Health Food Stores

Health food stores might be able to offer vegan or organic vanilla bean paste options.

5. Bulk food stores

Stores that sell bulk ingredients may provide vanilla bean paste in large quantities at competitive prices for those who are keen on baking or commercial kitchens.

Conclusion

Vanilla bean paste is a luxury ingredient that brings a unique taste of vanilla to the dishes but at the same time, there are many available substitutes for vanilla bean paste that people can use if they don’t have access to it, or they have dietary restrictions, or they wish to save money. Vanilla syrup, vanilla extract, or vegan vanilla paste substitutes that you can use as ingredients in your creations like almond extract or coconut milk are certainly what you would be looking for as they may add depth and complexity to your culinary achievements.

FAQs

1. What can I use if I don’t have vanilla bean paste?

You can use vanilla extract, vanilla powder, vanilla bean syrup, and vanilla-flavored almond or coconut milk as alternatives.

2. How much vanilla extract equals vanilla bean paste?

You can use 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for every 1 teaspoon of vanilla bean paste. 

3. What is the difference between vanilla and vanilla bean paste?

Vanilla refers specifically to the flavor extracted from vanilla beans which is usually in the form of the liquid extract. On the other hand, there is vanilla bean paste which is the combination of vanilla bean seeds and syrup made of sugar and occasionally other flavorings. The paste provides a stronger taste and a more attractive look than plain vanilla extract.

4. Can I use vanilla extract instead of vanilla pod?

Yes, you can use vanilla extract instead of a vanilla pod. Vanilla extract offers the concentrated flavor of vanilla beans and is commonly used as a substitute in recipes.

5. Can I use vanilla bean instead of vanilla extract?

Yes, you can use vanilla bean instead of vanilla extract by scraping out the seeds from the bean and incorporating them directly into your recipe for a rich vanilla flavor.