Knead to Know Ingredient: Vanilla Powder

What is vanilla powder?

Vanilla powder is a versatile ingredient that adds rich, concentrated vanilla flavor to baked goods, beverages, and desserts. Unlike vanilla extract, it's alcohol-free and perfect for recipes where added liquid could affect the texture, such as cookies, frostings, or dry mixes. It’s especially handy in high-heat recipes since it doesn’t evaporate as quickly as extract, ensuring the flavor holds strong.

I’ve exclusively moved away from vanilla extract just because it can sometimes be difficult to find completely allergen free. Plus, in gluten free baking, you tend to need double the amount of vanilla extract that a regular recipe calls for because gluten free flour blends can have a stronger flavor than a basic all purpose flour. If you need 2 tablespoons of vanilla extract in your recipe, you can typically substitute 1/2 tsp of vanilla powder. Sometimes you have to adjust the liquid ratio and add in 2 T of water or alternative milk, but most of my recipes are written with vanilla powder.

How can you use it?

Sprinkle vanilla powder into pancake batter, your morning coffee, or blend it into smoothies. Because it's shelf-stable and potent, a little goes a long way, making it a must-have for any allergen-free or gluten-free kitchen.

Feel free to purchase any vanilla powder that is safe for your allergies. I get mine here.