Vanilla extract is the background flavor of most baking — about 1 tsp per batch is standard. Whether you ran out mid-recipe or need a dietary swap, here are the best substitutes for vanilla extract, with exact amounts.
Use: 1:1 for 1 tsp vanilla extract
Swap directly.
Shows pretty vanilla specks.
Use: 1/2 bean, split and scraped for 1 tsp vanilla extract
Steep seeds in the warm liquid.
Most intense flavor.
Use: 1/2 tsp for 1 tsp vanilla extract
Use half the amount.
Much stronger; expect almond notes.
The best all-round substitute is Vanilla bean paste: use 1:1 for 1 tsp vanilla extract. Swap directly. Shows pretty vanilla specks.
Yes. Use 1/2 bean, split and scraped for 1 tsp vanilla extract. Steep seeds in the warm liquid. Most intense flavor.
Gluten-free options: Vanilla bean paste, Vanilla bean, Almond extract.
Use 1/2 tsp. Use half the amount.
Missing something else? Search all 48 ingredients in the substitute finder.