Avoid vanilla essence when you want natural vanilla flavour
Vanilla essence is often synthetic and weak, so prefer real vanilla extract (or pods/paste) for everyday baking.
The video explains that vanilla essence can contain synthetic flavouring and added caramel colour, and may require using a lot to get noticeable aroma. For regular baking, the recommendation is to use vanilla extract instead.
The short version
- Essence may be synthetic and coloured
- Extract is recommended for daily baking
What goes wrong
Using vanilla essence expecting the same flavour as extract
Buy vanilla extract for a more natural, stronger vanilla aroma
Why it works
Synthetic flavouring and dilution can make essence smell/taste weaker and less natural than true vanilla extraction.
Put it to use
Learn next
How to choose vodka for homemade extracts
Use a mid-range vodka—avoid the cheapest and the most expensive—when making extracts.
How to split a vanilla bean to expose the seeds for extract
Slice a fresh vanilla pod lengthwise to expose the seeds, then cut it in half so it fits in the jar before adding alcohol.
Refresh vanilla extract by topping up with vodka when the jar is half empty
When your homemade vanilla extract gets down to about halfway, refill the jar with more vodka and keep shaking periodically to extend its use.
Make homemade vanilla extract with vodka and vanilla beans (jar method)
Cut vanilla beans into pieces, cover with 80-proof (or higher) vodka in a jar, then steep in a cool dark place while shaking periodically until richly colored.