Vanilla Bean Paste Recipe
Make your own rich, aromatic vanilla bean paste at home with just a few ingredients. This alcohol-free, all-natural paste brings bold flavor and beautiful vanilla specks to your baking and desserts.
Ingredients
- 6 to 8 vanilla beans
- 1 tablespoon white sugar optional
- 2 to 3 tablespoons maple syrup corn syrup, or honey
- 1/2 cup 120 ml pure vanilla extract
Instructions
Split and scrape beans:
- Use a sharp knife to split 5–6 vanilla beans lengthwise. Scrape out seeds and set aside. Chop pods into small pieces.
Blend ingredients:
- In a blender or food processor, combine scraped seeds, chopped pods, 1/2 cup glycerin or maple syrup, and 1–2 tsp sweetener. Blend until thick and speckled.
Store & age:
- Pour paste into a clean glass jar with tight lid. Let it sit for at least one week, shaking occasionally to develop full flavor.
Notes
Use plump, glossy vanilla beans for best results.
Store paste in a cool, dark place.
Shelf-stable for up to 6–12 months if stored properly.
1:1 substitute for vanilla extract in most recipes.
Alcohol-free and kid-safe!