Helpful Hint: Maple syrup a suitable substitute for vanilla extract (2024)

Vanilla is one of America's most popular flavorings. It's derived from the seed pods of orchids and is used frequently in baked goods. Most often, bakers use vanilla in the form of vanilla extract.

But what do you do if you don't have any of those cute little brown bottles on your shelf? Substitute a bigger brown bottle of something else.

In a pinch, you can use maple syrup in place of vanilla extract. The difference in flavor will be slight, you might be more likely to have it on hand, and it's cheaper.

You're best off using pure maple syrup, but if you don't have that, the more common pancake syrups will work as well.

According to Buzzle.com, you should use equal parts maple syrup to vanilla extract (1 teaspoon to 1 teaspoon). But if your recipe also calls for sugar, consider decreasing the amount of sugar you use in the recipe since the maple syrup contains a lot of sugar already.

If you don't have maple syrup, you can also substitute vanilla extract by using half the amount of either almond extract or maple extract (½ teaspoon almond or maple extract for every teaspoon of vanilla extract).

Tracy Briggs has more than 35 years of experience, in broadcast, print, and digital journalism.

Helpful Hint: Maple syrup a suitable substitute for vanilla extract (2024)

FAQs

Helpful Hint: Maple syrup a suitable substitute for vanilla extract? ›

According to Buzzle.com, you should use equal parts maple syrup to vanilla extract (1 teaspoon to 1 teaspoon). But if your recipe also calls for sugar, consider decreasing the amount of sugar you use in the recipe since the maple syrup contains a lot of sugar already.

Is maple syrup a good substitute for vanilla extract? ›

Maple syrup

Many people like to use maple syrup as a replacement for vanilla, using 1 tablespoon (15 mL) of syrup for each 1 tablespoon (15 mL) of extract. To some, the scent and the hint of sweetness from maple syrup are reminiscent of vanilla.

What is the best substitute for vanilla extract? ›

8 substitutes for vanilla extract
  1. Vanilla paste. Vanilla paste — also called vanilla bean paste — is a mix of vanilla extract, vanilla beans, and sugar. ...
  2. Vanilla powder. ...
  3. Vanilla sugar. ...
  4. Almond extract. ...
  5. Maple syrup. ...
  6. Honey. ...
  7. Bourbon, brandy, rum, or vanilla liqueur. ...
  8. Vanilla flavored plant-based milk.
Nov 12, 2021

What is the ratio of maple syrup to vanilla extract? ›

Since the flavor of maple syrup is slightly different than vanilla, start with a 1:1 swap. To up the maple flavor, try 2:1 instead.

Can I use simple syrup instead of vanilla extract? ›

If vanilla flavor is a definite requirement, you'll want to add a tiny bit of vanilla extract. If your recipe is more flexible, you can use other sweeteners like plain simple syrup, other flavored syrups, or even natural liquid sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.

Does maple syrup taste like vanilla extract? ›

When using maple syrup as a substitute, remember that it's sweeter and has a stronger taste than vanilla extract. Adjust the amount accordingly to avoid overpowering the other flavors in your recipe. For example, if a recipe calls for one teaspoon of vanilla extract, you can use half a teaspoon of maple syrup instead.

Can you skip vanilla extract in a recipe? ›

If you don't have any on hand, you can almost always omit the vanilla without impacting the final texture of your baked goods; although the rich flavor extract—or any form of vanilla—brings will certainly be altered. Just remember one thing: flavor comes first.

What is the same as vanilla extract? ›

Vanilla essence is a more processed product that's made using artificial flavors and colors. Vanilla extract, on the other hand, is made primarily from vanilla beans soaked in ethyl alcohol and water, so it tends to have a stronger vanilla flavor.

Is making your own vanilla extract cheaper than buying it? ›

Homemade vanilla is more cost efficient than store-bought options. You can try homemade vanilla sugar too. Vanilla extract is an ingredient in many of our baked goods. This common addition actually carries big weight—1 teaspoon completely transforms a good dessert into a great dessert.

Is homemade vanilla extract the same as store bought? ›

In my testing, I found that the homemade vanilla extract imparted a markedly different flavor than the bottled stuff—great in some applications, less so in others.

Can you use maple syrup instead of vanilla extract in brownies? ›

My go-to substitute for vanilla extract is maple syrup. It has the same sweet aroma, and it does a pretty good job of mimicking vanilla's mellow flavor. Use the same amount of maple syrup as you would vanilla, and you'll barely notice the difference. (This is why vanilla is so expensive.)

What is the conversion ratio for maple syrup? ›

To replace white sugar with maple syrup in general cooking, it is ideal to use ¾ cup of maple syrup for every one cup of sugar. When it comes to baking, that same amount is used but also be sure to reduce the amount of overall liquid in the recipe by about three tablespoons for each cup of maple syrup substituted.

How long does it take to extract maple syrup? ›

It commonly takes about one cord of wood or sixty gallons of oil to boil down 800 gallons of sap into maple syrup. Depending on the size of the evaporator and the number of trees tapped, this may represent anywhere from two hours to two whole days of boiling.

What is the closest substitute for vanilla extract? ›

Vanilla powder: You need about 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla powder for every 1 teaspoon of extract your recipe calls for. Vanilla paste: The paste is roughly equivalent to the extract in terms of flavoring, so substitute in a 1:1 ratio.

Is lemon extract a good substitute for vanilla extract? ›

Lemon extracts are not sour rather it has a distinct flavour and aroma to them. This citrus fruit is widely available and makes for a great alternative to vanilla extract. Make some lemon tarts, cupcakes, and pies or even use it in the frosting and get a flavoursome dessert.

What are the white liquid bakers put on cakes? ›

Simple syrup is a great all-purpose glaze for cakes and fruitcakes, adding moisture and a bit of sweetness. It's also a key element in certain mixed drinks.

Do vanilla and maple go together? ›

This is a delicious blend of vanilla and maple to top your favorite pancakes, waffles or French toast!

Does vanilla extract taste the same as vanilla syrup? ›

Vanilla syrup is much sweeter than vanilla extract, due to the addition of sugar. It also has a thicker consistency, more like honey.

What does vanilla extract do in baking? ›

Vanilla extract and how important is it for the baking process. The primary purpose of vanilla extract is to add flavour to baked goods. Lacking it, baked goods tend to have a bland and boring taste. Vanilla extract can also contribute moisture to create a soft and fluffy texture.

What can I use instead of vanilla extract for French toast? ›

Use maple syrup or honey in place of vanilla for a rich, sweet taste. Maple syrup is a common substitute for vanilla because they have a similar flavor profile. Honey is also often used in place of vanilla, although it has its own unique taste.

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