Techniques
Seasoning
Skill
Beginner
2 min

Make vanilla sugar by layering sugar with split vanilla beans

Layer sugar and split vanilla beans in a container, seal, and let it sit so the sugar absorbs vanilla aroma and flavor.

Split vanilla beans and place some in the bottom of a container, then alternate layers of sugar and beans until full. Seal with a lid and leave it alone to become vanilla sugar for baking or coffee.

The short version

  • Alternate layers of sugar and split vanilla beans.
  • Seal and let it sit to infuse.
  • Use in baking, on muffins, or in coffee.

What you need

  • Container/jar with lidAny sealable container
  • KnifeFor splitting beans

How to do it

  1. 1

    Split vanilla beans in half.

    Watch this step
  2. 2

    Place some split beans in the bottom of a container.

    Watch this step
  3. 3

    Layer sugar and vanilla beans, alternating until the container is full.

    Example shown: sugar, beans, sugar, beans, then fill to the top.

    Watch this step
  4. 4

    Seal with a lid and leave it alone to infuse.

    Use as needed once it has taken on vanilla flavor.

    Watch this step

Why it works

Sugar readily absorbs aromatic compounds from the vanilla beans over time, perfuming the whole container.

Put it to use

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