There’s nothing like the taste of homemade vanilla extract. And, with our easy-to-use kit, you can make your own in just minutes. Our natural, gourmet-quality vanilla beans are hand-selected for optimum flavor and aroma, and our alcohol is specially formulated for maximum extraction. So, whether you’re a professional baker or simply love to bake at home, you’ll get the best results with our vanilla extract.
Review of Best Vanilla Extract For Baking
1. Watkins All Natural Original Gourmet Baking Vanilla, with Pure Vanilla …
- Brand: Watkins
- Manufacturer: Watkins
- Color: Brown
- Dimensions: Height: 8.09842518859 Inches Width: 1.49999999847 Inches Length: 2.75196850113 Inches Weight: 0.6875 Pounds `
- Publication Date: 2013-10-25T00:00:01Z
This product is amazing! It is all natural and tastes great. The pure vanilla extract makes it even better. I would highly recommend this to anyone.
Advantages
- It is all natural and has no artificial ingredients.
- It is a gourmet product that tastes great.
- It is very versatile and can be used in many different recipes.
- It is a good value for the price.
- It has a long shelf life and does not need to be refrigerated.
Our Recommendations
This is the best vanilla I have ever used! It has a wonderful, rich flavor that really enhances my baking.
2. Watkins All Natural Original Gourmet Baking Vanilla with Pure Extract, …
- Brand: Watkins
- Manufacturer: AmazonUs/JRWAT
- Color: Brown
This baking vanilla is the perfect way to add delicious flavor to your baked goods! Made with only natural ingredients, it is a great choice for those looking for a healthier option. The pure extract gives your desserts a rich, decadent flavor that everyone will love.
Advantages
- It’s all natural!
- Made with pure vanilla extract for a rich flavor.
- Perfect for baking cakes, cookies, and other desserts.
- A little goes a long way – one bottle lasts awhile.
- It’s reasonably priced.
Our Recommendations
I’ve been using Watkins All Natural Original Gourmet Baking Vanilla with Pure Extract for years, and it’s by far the best vanilla on the market. It has a rich, delicious flavor that enhances any recipe.
3. Nielsen-Massey Madagascar Bourbon Pure Vanilla Extract, 4 ounces
- Brand: Nielsen-Massey
- Manufacturer: Nielsen-Massey
- Dimensions: Height: 4.33 Inches Width: 1.57 Inches Length: 1.57 Inches Weight: 4.0 ounces `
- Publication Date: 2013-07-16T00:00:01Z
This product is a high-quality pure vanilla extract that is perfect for baking and cooking. It has a rich flavor that is perfect for adding to recipes.
Advantages
- Nielsen-Massey Madagascar Bourbon Pure Vanilla Extract is an all-natural, single-origin vanilla extract made from premium hand-selected beans grown in the islands of Madagascar.
- It has a rich and complex flavor that is perfect for baking, cooking and flavoring beverages.
- It is GMO free, gluten free, kosher certified and allergen free.
- The 4 ounce bottle contains no added sugar or artificial flavors, colors or preservatives.
- Nielsen-Massey Madagascar Bourbon Pure Vanilla Extract is a versatile product that can be used in many different ways to enhance the flavor of food and drinks
Our Recommendations
This vanilla extract is my new favorite! It has a rich, bourbon flavor that really enhances baked goods. I’ve used it in cookies, cakes and even frosting, and it’s always delicious. A little goes a long way, too, so this 4 ounce bottle will last me a while.
4. Watkins Clear Vanilla Flavor Extract, 11 oz. Bottle, 1 Count …
- Brand: Watkins
- Manufacturer: Watkins
- Color: Clear.
- Dimensions: Height: 8.09842518859 Inches Width: 1.49999999847 Inches Length: 2.75196850113 Inches Weight: 0.6875 Pounds `
- Publication Date: 2015-04-08T00:00:01Z
This product is amazing! It tastes great and is very versatile. I use it in baking, cooking, and even making my own vanilla extract. It’s a must-have for anyone who loves to bake or cook.
Advantages
- It is a versatile flavoring agent that can be used in a variety of recipes.
- It imparts a clear, pure vanilla flavor to baked goods and other dishes.
- It is made with natural ingredients and does not contain artificial colors or flavors.
- It is GMO-free and gluten-free.
- It is certified Kosher by the Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America (OU).
Our Recommendations
This extract is amazing! It’s so versatile and can be used in so many different ways. I’ve used it to flavor frosting, cakes, cookies, and even coffee. A little goes a long way, too. This bottle will last me forever!
5. McCormick All Natural Pure Vanilla Extract (Made with Madagascar Vanilla …
- Brand: McCormick
- Manufacturer: McCormick & Company, Inc.
- Dimensions: Height: 7.702 Inches Width: 2.721 Inches Length: 2.721 Inches Weight: 0.00440924524 Pounds `
- Publication Date: 2015-06-18T00:00:01Z
This vanilla extract is made with Madagascar vanilla beans and is the perfect addition to any baking recipe! It’s all natural and has a wonderful flavor that will make your desserts taste even better.
Advantages
- It is all natural and made with Madagascar vanilla beans.
- It has a rich, full-bodied flavor that enhances baked goods and other recipes.
- It is gluten-free and kosher certified.
- It does not contain any artificial colors, flavors or preservatives.
- A little goes a long way – only 1 teaspoon is needed to flavor 1 cup of batter or frosting
Our Recommendations
This vanilla extract is the best I’ve ever used! It’s so potent and fragrant, a little goes a long way. I love that it’s all natural and made with Madagascar vanilla beans. It’s definitely worth the price tag.
6. Simply Organic Pure Vanilla Extract, Certified Organic, 4 Ounce Glass …
- Brand: Simply Organic
- Manufacturer: Simply Organic – Frontier
- Dimensions: Height: 5.118110231 Inches Width: 1.574803148 Inches Length: 1.574803148 Inches Weight: 0.25 Pounds `
This is the best vanilla extract I have ever used! It’s so pure and has such a great flavor. I will never use anything else.
Advantages
- Using Simply Organic Pure Vanilla Extract can help add flavor and depth to many recipes.
- It is certified organic and free from artificial ingredients, making it a healthier option than many other vanilla extracts on the market.
- The 4 ounce glass bottle is a convenient size for most home cooks and bakers.
- Simply Organic Pure Vanilla Extract is affordably priced compared to many other organic vanilla extracts.
- It has a rich, robust flavor that can enhance the taste of desserts, beverages and more.
Our Recommendations
I’m so glad I found this organic vanilla extract! It’s perfect for baking and tastes great.
7. McCormick Culinary Clear Imitation Vanilla Extract, 32 fl oz – …
- Brand: McCormick Culinary
- Manufacturer: McCormick & Company, Inc.
- Color: Clear
- Dimensions: Height: 9.447 Inches Width: 3.349 Inches Length: 3.349 Inches Weight: 2.175 Pounds `
- Publication Date: 2012-07-24T00:00:01Z
This clear imitation vanilla extract is perfect for baking and cooking, as it adds a delicious vanilla flavor without discoloring your food. It’s also a great value, as this 32 fl oz bottle will last you a long time.
Advantages
- Can be used in a wide variety of recipes
- Has a long shelf life
- Does not contain any alcohol
- Is cheaper than pure vanilla extract
- Has a neutral flavor that will not alter the taste of your food
Our Recommendations
I have been using this extract for years in baking and it never disappoints! The flavor is always spot on and it’s very versatile. I highly recommend it to anyone who loves to bake!
8. Rodelle Pure Vanilla Extract, 32 Ounce
- Brand: RODELLE
- Manufacturer: Rodelle
- Dimensions: Weight: 2.0 Pounds `
- Publication Date: 2014-03-14T00:00:01Z
This vanilla extract is perfect for baking and cooking! It’s made with only the finest ingredients, including Madagascar Bourbon vanilla beans, and it has a wonderful flavor that enhances any dish.
Advantages
- The Rodelle Pure Vanilla Extract, 32 Ounce is made with only the finest ingredients.
- It is a natural extract that contains no artificial flavors or colors.
- It is perfect for baking and flavoring all kinds of recipes.
- It has a rich and flavorful taste that will enhance any dish.
- It is Kosher certified and gluten free.
Our Recommendations
This is the best vanilla extract I have ever used! It has a great flavor and is very versatile. I use it in baking, cooking, and even in my coffee. It is a great value for the price.
9. Kirkland Signature Pure Vanilla, 16 Ounce
- Brand: Kirkland Signature
- Manufacturer: Kirkland
- Dimensions: Height: 8.0 Inches Width: 3.0 Inches Length: 3.0 Inches Weight: 1.0 Pounds `
- Publication Date: 2015-01-18T00:00:01Z
Our Kirkland Signature Pure Vanilla is a high-quality, deliciously aromatic vanilla extract that’s perfect for baking and cooking. It’s made with only the finest ingredients, including premium Madagascar Bourbon vanilla beans, and it’s free of any artificial flavors or colors. This 16-ounce bottle is a great value for anyone who loves to bake or cook with vanilla.
Advantages
- The product is all-natural and does not contain any artificial ingredients or preservatives.
- It is a great value for the price, as it contains 16 ounces of pure vanilla extract.
- The vanilla extract is made from premium quality vanilla beans and has a rich, flavorful taste.
- It can be used in baking or cooking to add flavor to recipes.
- Kirkland Signature Pure Vanilla Extract is certified Kosher by the Orthodox Union (OU).
Our Recommendations
This is the best vanilla I’ve ever used! It’s so pure and concentrated, a little goes a long way. The flavor is rich and complex, and it really enhances baked goods and other dishes. I’m so glad I found this brand!
10. Pure Vanilla Extract by Nielsen-Massey, 8 oz, with Gift Box
- Brand: Nielsen-Massey
- Manufacturer: Nielsen-Massey
- Dimensions: Weight: 0.5 Pounds `
This pure vanilla extract is perfect for baking and flavoring all kinds of recipes. It comes in a handy 8 oz size with a gift box, making it a great present for the baker in your life.
Advantages
- Pure Vanilla Extract by Nielsen-Massey is a high quality, versatile product that can be used in a variety of recipes.
- The 8 oz size is perfect for larger batch cooking or baking projects.
- The gift box makes it a great present for the baker or cook in your life.
- Nielsen-Massey’s extract is GMO free and gluten free, making it a great choice for those with dietary restrictions.
- The vanilla extract has a rich, complex flavor that can enhance any dish it is added to.
Our Recommendations
I love this vanilla extract! It is so pure and has such a great flavor. I use it in all of my baking and it always turns out great. The gift box is also a nice touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of vanilla extract is best for baking?
When it comes to vanilla extract, there are two main types that are used for baking: artificial and natural. Artificial vanilla extract is made with synthetic vanillin, which is derived from either wood or coal tar. Natural vanilla extract is made with real vanilla beans that have been steeped in alcohol.
So, which type of vanilla extract is best for baking? That really depends on your preference. Some people prefer the taste of artificial vanilla extract because it’s more consistent than natural vanilla extract.
Others prefer natural vanilla extract because it has a richer flavor.
Which is better Madagascar or Mexican vanilla?
If you're looking for a delicious vanilla flavor, you may be wondering which is better Madagascar or Mexican vanilla. Both types of vanilla are popular and have their own unique flavor profiles. Here's a look at the difference between these two vanillas so you can decide which is right for you.
Madagascar vanilla is often described as being richer and more complex than other vanillas. It has a sweet, floral aroma with notes of clove and anise. The flavor is rich and creamy with a hint of caramel.
Madagascar vanilla is perfect for baking, as it pairs well with chocolate and fruit flavors.Mexican vanilla, on the other hand, has a deep, dark flavor that's reminiscent of licorice or anise. There are also hints of cinnamon and chocolate in the flavor profile.
Mexican vanilla works well in savory dishes like mole sauce or enchiladas, as well as sweet desserts like flan or ice cream.So which type of vanilla should you choose? It really depends on your personal preference.
If you want a classic vanilla flavor, go with Madagascar Vanilla.
How do you choose good vanilla extract?
When you’re looking for a good vanilla extract, you want to make sure that it’s made with real vanilla beans. You also want to check the label to see how many vanilla beans are in each bottle. The higher the number, the more potent the extract will be.
Another thing to look for is whether or not the extract is alcohol-based or sugar-based. Alcohol-based extracts will have a stronger flavor, while sugar-based extracts will be sweeter.
Should I use Grade A or B for vanilla extract?
There are two grades of vanilla extract: Grade A and Grade B. Both are made from the same ingredients, but the difference lies in the process and quality of those ingredients.Grade A vanilla extract is made with only the best-quality beans and has a deeper, more intense flavor. It's also more expensive than Grade B.
If you're making a dish that really needs to showcase the vanilla flavor (like ice cream or custard), go for Grade A. For baking or other recipes where the vanilla is just one component among many, Grade B will work just fine.
Conclusion
You can’t go wrong with any of the vanilla extracts on this list. They’re all great for baking.
I’m Asma Sheikh, a home cook and recipe developer with a passion for all things food. On my blog (The Kitchen Advisor), you’ll find everything from healthy weeknight dinners to decadent desserts, and everything in between. So whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just getting started in the kitchen, I hope you’ll find something here that inspires you to get cooking!
