Cups & Temps

Vanilla extract substitute: what to use instead

Use vanilla bean paste 1:1 for vanilla extract. Or scrape the seeds from about a 3-inch piece of vanilla bean per teaspoon; bourbon, rum, or maple syrup also work 1:1.

Ratios from university extension services and King Arthur Baking. Checked .

How much vanilla extract does the recipe call for?

We scale every substitute below to your amount.

Showing amounts for 1 tsp vanilla extract.

Vanilla extract substitutes, best first

  1. For 1 tsp vanilla extract1 tsp vanilla bean pasteBest for: custards, frostings, ice cream

    The Spice House; leaves visible specks. McCormick: 2 tsp paste = 1 vanilla bean.

  2. For 1 tsp vanilla extractSeeds from a 3-inch piece of vanilla beanBest for: custards, sauces

    Iowa State; an 8-inch bean equals 2-3 tsp extract. Colorado State gives 1/2 bean = 1 Tbsp.

  3. For 1 tsp vanilla extract1 tsp bourbon, rum or brandyBest for: cakes, cookies

    The Spice House; most alcohol bakes off.

  4. For 1 tsp vanilla extract1 tsp maple syrupBest for: pancakes, cookies, alcohol-free

    The Spice House; roughly equal.

  5. For 1 tsp vanilla extract1/2 tsp almond extractBest for: cookies, cakes

    The Spice House; much stronger, distinct flavor.

Why the swaps work

Vanilla extract is vanilla beans steeped in alcohol; the alcohol carries the flavor compounds, which is why spirits and pastes make reasonable stand-ins.

Questions people ask

How much vanilla bean equals 1 tsp extract?

About a 3-inch piece (Iowa State); an 8-inch bean equals 2-3 tsp.

Can I use almond extract instead of vanilla?

Yes, but use about half as much; it's stronger and tastes distinctly of almond.

Sources