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Homemade Vanilla Paste Recipe

  • Author: [email protected]
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: About 1 cup of vanilla paste 1x
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

Homemade vanilla paste is a game-changer for bakers and chefs who want to enhance their desserts with rich, natural vanilla flavor. Unlike store-bought versions, this recipe allows you to control sweetness, thickness, and ingredients, ensuring an authentic and aromatic result. Perfect for cakes, custards, and cookies, this vanilla paste is simple to make and can be stored for months, making it a must-have pantry staple.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4–5 vanilla beans (Grade B for best flavor)
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/2 cup white sugar (or honey/agave for a natural twist)
  • 1 tsp xanthan gum (or 1 1/2 tsp cornstarch for thickening)
  • 1/4 cup vodka (or food-grade glycerin for an alcohol-free option)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Vanilla Beans:
    • Split the vanilla beans lengthwise using a sharp knife.
    • Scrape out the seeds (vanilla caviar) with the dull side of the knife.
    • Save the empty pods for later use.
  2. Simmer the Base:
    • In a double boiler, combine the vanilla seeds, scraped pods, water, and sugar.
    • Heat gently for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the mixture thickens slightly.
    • Avoid high heat to prevent scorching.
  3. Blend for Smoothness:
    • Remove the pods from the mixture.
    • Transfer the syrup to a blender and add xanthan gum and vodka (or glycerin).
    • Blend until the paste reaches a smooth, thick consistency with visible flecks of vanilla seeds.
  4. Strain and Cool:
    • Pour the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any fibrous bits.
    • Let the paste cool completely before transferring it to a sterilized glass jar.

Notes

  • For a thicker paste, blend in an extra pinch of xanthan gum.
  • Store leftover vanilla pods in sugar to create vanilla-infused sweetener.
  • Refrigerate for up to 6 months or freeze in small portions for extended storage.
  • Shake or stir before use, as natural settling may occur.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Condiment, Baking Ingredient
  • Method: Simmered, Blended
  • Cuisine: Universal

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 tbsp
  • Calories: 30 kcal
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 0mg
  • Fat: 0g
  • Saturated Fat: 0g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 0g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 7g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: homemade vanilla paste, vanilla bean paste, DIY vanilla extract, natural vanilla flavor, vanilla recipe

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