Vanilla Beans

Vanilla planifolia Spice, Flavoring

Vanilla Beans Spice, Flavoring

At a Glance

  • Category Spice, Flavoring

The Forktionary Angle

"Unlock the full potential of vanilla: from extraction to infusion, we guide you to its most aromatic applications."

Definition

The cured, dried fruit pods of the vanilla orchid, prized for their complex, sweet, aromatic flavor in baking and desserts.

Global Production Usage ~80% for desserts & beverages
Shelf Life (unopened) 2 years
Vanillin Content 1-2.5% (main flavor compound)

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Vanilla Beans are:

Sweet Floral Woody Creamy Aromatic

Chef’s Secret

After scraping the seeds, don't discard the pod! Infuse it into sugar, milk, or spirits for a secondary burst of subtle vanilla flavor.

Best Substitutes

Vanilla Extract

per bean in volume, adjust to taste
Ratio 1:1

Vanilla Bean Paste

Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Look for plump, moist, flexible beans without cracks or dryness. Madagascar Bourbon and Tahitian are popular varieties.

Recipes Using Vanilla Beans

Time To Make Preparation Main Ingredient Apples

Apple Bread Pudding With Calvados Sauce

Elevate your dessert game with this decadent Apple Bread Pudding! Featuring perfectly caramelized apples and a rich, unforgettable Calvados sauce, this recipe is a true masterpiece. The sauce is so divine, it's almost sinful to add ice cream or cream (but feel free to indulge!). Using high-quality apples is key – their flavor will shine through in every bite. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.

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Fruit Course Preparation 15 Minutes Or Less

Asian Pears With Vanilla Poached Kumquats

A sophisticated and elegant dessert recipe featuring the sweet and subtle flavors of Asian pears perfectly complemented by the tangy warmth of vanilla-poached kumquats. This gourmet recipe, originally featured in November 2001, is surprisingly easy to make and perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a special treat. The vibrant colors and delightful textures make this a stunning and delicious autumnal dessert.

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Rice Dietary Rice Pies And Tarts

Baked Austrian Rice Pudding Reisauflauf

Indulge in the comforting warmth of this classic Austrian Baked Rice Pudding! A fragrant and aromatic sweet treat, reminiscent of a delicious pie or tarte. This recipe features crisp apples for a delightful twist – you might want to add a touch more sugar to balance their tartness. Serve it lukewarm with a creamy vanilla sauce as a comforting main course or a delightful dessert. Relive childhood memories with this easy-to-make, family-friendly recipe.

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For 1 Or 2 Beverages 3 Steps Or Less North American

Adult's Cherry Vanilla Limeade

Escape to a summer oasis with this sophisticated twist on a classic limeade! This Cowboy Cocktails creation blends the sweet tartness of cherries, creamy vanilla, and zesty lime for an unforgettable adult beverage. Perfect for backyard barbecues, sunset cocktails, or a refreshing treat any time.

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Easy Polynesian Tropical Fruit Course

Banana Poe

Discover the enchanting flavors of Banana Poe, a creamy, dreamy dessert originating from the Pacific Islands! Made with ripe bananas and the unique starch from manioc (also known as cassava or yuca), this recipe delivers a surprisingly satisfying and easy-to-digest treat. Traditionally popular in Tahiti, where it's even sold pre-mixed, this Banana Poe recipe lets you experience the authentic taste at home. If you're familiar with tapioca, you already know the subtly sweet and slightly chewy texture manioc starch brings. Get ready to impress your taste buds with this exotic yet simple dessert – perfect for a warm evening or a special occasion!

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Dietary Main Ingredient Kid Friendly Course

Apricot Fig And Yogurt Swirl

Indulge in this exquisite Apricot Fig & Yogurt Swirl dessert! This recipe, inspired by a vintage cookbook, creates a harmonious blend of sweet apricots and figs, complemented by the creamy tang of strained yogurt. A simple yet elegant treat perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight indulgence.

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Fruit Apples Oven American

Barbara Treves Award Winning Apple Pie

Recreate the magic! This apple pie recipe, winner of the 1st Annual KCRW Good Food Pie Contest's "Best in Show" and "Fruit & Nut" categories, is Barbara Treves' legendary creation. Get ready for a flaky, buttery crust and a perfectly spiced, caramelized apple filling. Start ahead to allow for chilling and baking time – it's worth the wait!

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Time To Make Course Diabetic 4 Hours Or Less

Apple Bread Pudding Diabetic

Indulge in a guilt-free dessert with this delicious Apple Bread Pudding, adapted from the Australian Women's Weekly Diabetes Cookbook! This recipe boasts a low GI, making it perfect for those watching their sugar intake. Each serving contains approximately 167 calories, offering a satisfying treat without the excessive carbs. Simple to make yet elegant to serve, this warm, comforting pudding is perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion. Impress your family and friends with this surprisingly healthy dessert!

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Vegetarian Desserts Presentation French

Diamond Creme Brulee

Indulge in the decadent richness of Diamond Crème Brûlée! This recipe, inspired by a humorous tale from a Cedar Rapids gathering, delivers an incredibly creamy custard with a satisfyingly high calcium content. Prepare for a luxurious dessert experience with a perfectly caramelized sugar crust. The secret? A generous amount of butter for unparalleled richness and smoothness.

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Grains Fruit Vegan Time To Make

Banana Bliss Balls Raw Food

Satisfy your sweet tooth with these no-bake Banana Bliss Balls! A quick and easy raw vegan recipe perfect for a healthy snack or delightful dessert. Made with wholesome ingredients like bananas, nuts, and coconut, these bliss balls are naturally sweet and deliciously satisfying. Get the recipe now and enjoy a guilt-free treat!

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Dietary Dinner Party Seasonal Gifts

Apple Meringue

This dazzling Apple Meringue recipe is a Rosh Hashanah tradition, perfect for autumn gatherings! Dairy-free and lactose-free, it's a delightful dessert that's both elegant and easy to make. Sweet apples simmered in fragrant spices topped with a cloud-like Italian meringue – pure autumnal bliss!

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Sweet Gluten Free 15 Minutes Or Less Mango

Creamsicle Smoothie

Escape to a sunny afternoon with every sip of our Creamsicle Smoothie! This dreamy blend tastes just like a classic creamsicle, delivering the perfect balance of creamy orange and refreshing vanilla. Quick, easy, and bursting with flavor, it's the ultimate summer treat (or any-day pick-me-up!).

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15 Minutes Or Less Number Of Servings Eggs Dairy Occasion

Aztec Chili Hot Chocolate

Warm up with this exotic and surprisingly romantic Aztec Chili Hot Chocolate! This recipe blends the rich, comforting flavors of traditional hot chocolate with a spicy kick of chili for an unforgettable experience. Perfect for chilly evenings or a cozy night in, this unique drink is easily customizable – use real chocolate, cocoa powder, or hot chocolate mix depending on your preference. Discover the delicious secret behind its rumored aphrodisiac qualities!

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Occasion 5 Ingredients Or Less Condiments Etc 30 Minutes Or Less

1900 Park Fare Vanilla Sauce Disney

Indulge in the magic of Disney's 1900 Park Fare with this creamy, dreamy vanilla sauce! Perfect for drizzling over their famous bread pudding, this recipe recreates the classic dessert topping with simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps. Elevate your bread pudding or any dessert with this rich and decadent sauce – a taste of Disney magic in your own kitchen!

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Dietary 3 Steps Or Less Apples Occasion

Apple Banana And Strawberry Froth

A refreshing and vibrant Apple Banana Strawberry Froth recipe, perfect for a light breakfast, brunch, or a healthy dessert. This delicious concoction, created by the US Apple Consumers Association, blends the sweetness of ripe bananas and strawberries with the crispness of apples, enhanced by fragrant vanilla and warming cardamom. Easy to make in under 15 minutes!

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Main Ingredient 60 Minutes Or Less Occasion Time To Make

Baked Vanilla Peaches

Indulge in the sweet taste of summer with this irresistible Baked Vanilla Peaches recipe! Perfectly baked peaches, infused with vanilla and honey, then drizzled with wine, creating a delightful dessert. Easy to make and perfect for a warm evening, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Get ready to savor the juicy sweetness of summer!

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Berries Citrus Birthday Easy

Berry Lemonade

Inspired by Giada De Laurentiis' "Let Them Eat Cake" episode, this refreshing Berry Lemonade recipe is bursting with vibrant berry flavor and a touch of homemade vanilla sweetness. Perfect for summer gatherings or a simple afternoon treat! Easy to make and incredibly delicious.

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Low In Something Cuisine Occasion Desserts

Bakewell Tart

Indulge in the exquisite Bakewell Tart, a delightful treat deserving far more fame! This slightly adapted Jamie Oliver recipe is simply divine, the perfect accompaniment to a steaming cup of tea or coffee. Imagine a buttery, crumbly pastry crust cradling a luscious layer of almond frangipane, topped with sweet raspberry jam and finished with a delicate dusting of icing sugar. Prepare for a taste sensation!

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