Vanilla sugar is an all-purpose powerhouse in baking recipes. I love it.
But it's a special ingredient. That means supply is sometimes limited. Before long, you'll inevitably need a vanilla sugar substitute.
Vanilla syrup feels like it makes sense. Right? What about mixing agave syrup with vanilla extract? Could you even make your own vanilla sugar?
It's not as complex as you'd think. Let me explain.
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All About Vanilla Sugar
As an avid home cook, there's something incredibly enchanting about the aroma of vanilla. It has a way of transforming simple dishes into something exceptional.
One of the secret weapons in my dessert-making arsenal is vanilla sugar, a sweet and aromatic blend that's a staple in many kitchens around the world.
What is Vanilla Sugar?
Vanilla sugar is, quite simply, sugar that has been infused with vanilla. This infusion is typically created by burying a vanilla bean in a jar of sugar.
Over time, the sugar absorbs the vanilla's intense, aromatic flavor, creating a product that adds both sweetness and a deep vanilla essence to whatever it touches. It's like ordinary sugar but with a touch of magic—a kiss of flavor that enhances pastries, cakes, and other sweet treats.
And yes: you can make your own homemade vanilla sugar. Simply add 1-2 good-quality vanilla bean pods to a pot of regular granulated sugar or brown sugar, depending on your preference.
It's important to keep the mix in an airtight, sanitary location to prevent mold growth on the vanilla bean.
When to use Vanilla Sugar
Common in European countries, especially Germany and Scandinavia, vanilla sugar is often used to sweeten everything from cookies and cakes to whipped cream and fruit.
But it doesn't stop at desserts. I also love using it to add a touch of sweetness and complexity to savory dishes, like glazed carrots or a subtly sweet rub for roasted meats.
Natural Vanilla Sugar Substitutes
Whenever you need ingredient substitutes, Also The Crumbs, Please is the place to be.
So! For my next trick, I'll explore some alternatives, especially for those of us who are health-conscious or are looking to change up our sweet game.
1. Vanilla-Infused Stevia or Monk Fruit Sweetener
Vanilla-infused stevia or monk fruit sweetener is a natural, calorie-free option if you need to substitute vanilla sugar.
To make your own, simply infuse a vanilla bean in a jar with your choice of stevia or monk fruit sweetener, allowing it to sit for at least a week.
As a substitute, use the same amount that your recipe calls for vanilla sugar.
Best for: Vanilla-infused stevia sweetener is delicious in cookies, cakes, and coffee, allowing health-conscious bakers to enjoy sweet and aromatic flavors without the added calories and carbs. Try using it in our mini cheesecakes (New York style)!
2. Honey and Vanilla Bean Paste
Honey and vanilla bean paste create a rich and flavorful liquid sweetener.
I'd stick to neutral honey rather than using an expensive flavored option such as orange blossom honey or chestnut honey unless you want that flavor in your baked goods. Certainly, don't reach for that pricey jar of manuka honey when you're making a quick substitution!
To substitute for one cup of vanilla sugar, use ¾ cup of honey and a teaspoon of vanilla bean paste.
Best for: A combination of honey and vanilla bean paste is delicious served in tea, over yogurt, or as a glaze for roasted fruits, imparting a rich depth of flavor and sweetness while avoiding refined sugars.
3. Vanilla Syrup
Vanilla syrup is a natural stand-in. Think about what syrup is. Think about that vanilla flavor. Now you get it.
It's worth buying quality. Mediocre syrup will use synthetic vanilla and provide a chemical, unpleasant taste. However, a good-quality bottle of vanilla syrup is a lifeline in a crisis.
The only disadvantage of syrups is that they tend to harden when baked. This isn't the case with fine or granulated sugar, so soft cookies or cakes benefit from using finer sugar rather than syrup.
When substituting, use 1 teaspoon of syrup for every teaspoon of vanilla sugar.
Best for: Vanilla syrup shines in crunchy cookies and is great for ice cream. It's delicious in coffee and popular in cocktails such as a Vanilla Old Fashioned or if you're out of Galliano for a Harvey Wallbanger. Try it in our homemade vanilla milkshake!
4. Agave Syrup with Vanilla Extract
Agave syrup is a sweet, neutral-flavored nectar derived from the agave plant, and when combined with vanilla extract, it makes a fantastic vanilla sugar substitute.
Vanilla extract is created by soaking vanilla bean seeds in water mixed with ethyl alcohol. It's pungent and can be somewhat expensive, but is widely considered a superior alternative to synthetic vanilla essence.
To replace one cup of vanilla sugar, use â…” cup of agave syrup and one teaspoon of vanilla extract.
Best for: Agave syrup mixed with vanilla extract delivers unique, flavorful cocktails, and It also enhances moist baked goods, like fruit muffins or pancakes.
RELATED: What is the Best Agave Nectar Substitute?
5. Vanilla-Infused Coconut Sugar
Coconut sugar, derived from the sap of the coconut palm, has a lower glycemic index than regular sugar, as covered here by VeryWell Health. To make a vanilla-infused version, just add a split vanilla bean to a jar of coconut sugar.
To substitute for one cup of vanilla sugar, use an equal amount of this infused coconut sugar.
Best for: Vanilla-infused coconut sugar mirrors the effects of vanilla sugar (and sometimes tastes even better) in many desserts. Try it in chocolate cake, the base of a coconut cheesecake, rich cookies, macarons, and sweet pastries.
RELATED: Best Coconut Sugar Substitutes for Healthier Recipes
6. Maple Syrup and Vanilla Extract
Maple syrup, a classic natural sweetener, takes on a new dimension when mixed with vanilla extract. To substitute for one cup of vanilla sugar, use ¾ cup of maple syrup and one teaspoon of vanilla extract.
Remember that maple has a slightly smoky flavor. I find this pleasant and love it in my desserts, but if you're looking for a more neutral flavor, consider honey or a granulated sugar mix.
Best for: Mixing vanilla extract with maple syrup is delicious when added to oatmeal, granola, and dessert sauces. Try using it to enhance our oatmeal breakfast bars!
6. Date Sugar and Vanilla Powder
Date sugar is made from dried and ground dates, and it brings a rich, fruity sweetness. When combined with vanilla powder (ground vanilla beans), it becomes a wholesome substitute for vanilla sugar.
I usually replace one cup of vanilla sugar by using one cup of date sugar and a teaspoon of vanilla powder.
Best for: Date sugar mixed with vanilla powder enhances baked goods such as sponges, fruitcakes, date slices, and flapjacks, where its complex, fruity sweetness can shine.
Artificial Vanilla Sugar Substitutes
1. Artificial Vanilla Flavoring (Vanillin) and Non-Nutritive Sweeteners (Sucralose or Aspartame)
Artificial vanilla flavoring, or vanillin, is a synthesized flavor compound, and when combined with non-nutritive sweeteners like sucralose or aspartame, it becomes a zero-calorie alternative to vanilla sugar.
I typically use one cup of non-nutritive sweetener and 1 teaspoon of artificial vanilla flavoring instead of one cup of vanilla sugar.
A word to the wise: if you're looking for artificial vanilla-flavored replacements, check the ingredient list for castoreum before you make a purchase. This article from National Geographic explains why you may not want castoreum in your baked goods.
Best for: Artificial vanilla flavoring can be used for desserts like custards or puddings, where the vanilla flavor is essential, but sugar can be avoided. Consider it as a sweetener in our sugar-free, healthy peanut butter bites with cranberries.
2. Vanilla Extract and Erythritol
Erythritol is a sugar alcohol that has almost no calories and is less likely to cause digestive issues than other sugar alcohols.
When using this alternative, combine one cup of Erythritol with one teaspoon of vanilla extract.
Best for: Mixed vanilla extract and erythritol is great for baking healthier cookies and cakes, where you want sweetness without the calories.
Tips and Tricks When Using Vanilla Sugar Substitutes
Start Conservatively
Especially when you're trying substitutes for vanilla sugar for the first time, it's wise to use a little less than the recommended amount and then adjust to taste.
Every palette is different, and what's just right for one person might be too sweet or too mild for another.
Monitor the Consistency
Some substitutes, especially liquids like honey or maple syrup, can alter the consistency of your dishes. If a recipe calls for a certain consistency, you may need to adjust other ingredients accordingly.
Heat Sensitivity
Remember that some sugar substitutes, especially artificial ones, can react differently to heat than regular sugar. This could affect caramelization or browning in baked goods.
Be Mindful of Aftertastes
Some non-nutritive sweeteners may leave a lingering aftertaste. If this bothers you, consider blending multiple substitutes or pairing them with stronger flavors in your dish.
Refrigeration Matters
Natural sweeteners infused with vanilla, such as honey with vanilla bean paste, can crystallize or harden over time. Store in a warm place or gently heat before using to regain a smooth consistency.
Vanilla Sugar Substitute: Frequently Asked Questions
Vanilla can't replace the sweetness of sugar, but it enhances the flavor. It's used alongside sweeteners in recipes to add depth and aroma.
To substitute vanilla extract for vanilla sugar, use one teaspoon of extract for every 1 ½ teaspoons of homemade or commercial vanilla sugar.
A single scraped-out vanilla pod equates roughly to two teaspoons of granulated white or brown sugars mixed with half a teaspoon of pure liquid extract.
Vanilla sugar adds an extra layer of flavor complexity and richness. Its unique aroma also imparts a delightful fragrance to baked goods.
Vanilla syrup is an accessible replacement for vanilla sugar. Mixing another syrup with some vanilla extract can also replicate its unique flavor.
Yes, although commercial vanilla paste may not have the highest purity. I'd typically recommend making your own vanilla sugar substitute using high-quality vanilla extract and granulated sugar or syrup.
Substitutions That Are Anything But Vanilla!
Exploring the world of vanilla sugar substitutes has been a delightful journey. From natural to artificial options, there are numerous ways for health-conscious foodies to satisfy their sweet cravings.
But remember, the kitchen is your playground.
I encourage you to dive in, experiment with these alternatives, and discover what tantalizes your taste buds.
Got a substitute that works wonders or a tweak that's too good to keep secret? Join our community and share in the comments below.
And don't forget to check the blog for more ingredient swap inspirations.
Happy cooking!
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Recipe
Homemade Vanilla Sugar
Ingredients
- 4 cups white granulated sugar
- 2 fresh, fragrant vanilla pods
Instructions
- Start by laying each vanilla pod flat on a cutting board. With a steady hand, split each pod lengthwise using a sharp knife, revealing the precious seeds inside. Then, use the edge of your knife to gently scrape out the seeds.
- Pour your 4 cups of white granulated sugar into a large, airtight container. Combine the scraped-out vanilla seeds with sugar, and don’t forget to toss in the split pods as well.
- Secure the lid on your container, ensuring it’s airtight. Find a cool, dark place in your pantry or cupboard, away from direct sunlight, where this mixture can rest and infuse.
- Allow this mixture to sit for at least 14 days before its first use. However, extending the wait up to six weeks will reward you. The longer it sits, the more intense the infusion becomes.
- During this waiting period, make it a routine to give your container a gentle shake or stir. This ensures that those flecks distribute evenly throughout the sugar, significantly boosting the overall aroma profile.
Notes
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