Easy Vanilla Bean Paste Recipe

Course: Seasoning

Cuisine: American

Diet: Vegan, Vegetarian

Prep Time: 5

Total Time: 5

Servings: servings

Calories: 15kcal

Author: Jazzmine Woodard

Rich vanilla paste made simply with bourbon and brown sugar for old-fashioned flavor

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Equipment

1 Blender or food processor
1 airtight container

Ingredients

3.5 ounces vanilla beans
1 cup brown sugar
½ cup bourbon whiskey or other whiskey, rum, cognac, or vodka

Instructions

Add all ingredients to the carafe of a blender or food processor, then cover and pulse until a paste starts to form.
3.5 ounces vanilla beans, 1 cup brown sugar, ½ cup bourbon whiskey
Pause the blending process, then open and scrape down the sides of the carafe. Cover and resume blending. Repeat this step until the paste is smooth, thick, and uniform.

Notes

Modifications

Food-grade vegetable glycerin can be used instead of bourbon if you want to make this recipe without alcohol.

You can use any kind of whiskey, not just bourbon. Or you can use vodka, rum, or cognac. I don't recommend using gin, tequila, mezcal, or any liqueurs because the flavors don't jive as well.

I like to use brown sugar because it adds a subtle bit of molasses flavor; however, you can use what you prefer, including honey or agave, granulated sugar, or even a sugar-free option like stevia.

Storage

Store in an airtight container in a cool, dark pantry or cupboard. Do not refrigerate or freeze, as this will make the paste stiff and can introduce condensation to the container. Be sure to stir before use if you notice any crystallization, and seal the container tightly between uses. Keeps for up to a year.

Vanilla bean paste vs. vanilla extract conversion: I recommend using about ¾ as much vanilla paste as vanilla extract because the flavor is stronger.

Nutrition