Vanilla extract substitute
1 teaspoon vanilla extract = 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
Vanilla is a background flavour, so you have room to swap.
Substitutes for 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Option 1
1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
A 1:1 swap. Shows as black flecks, so it suits custard, ice cream and pale cakes.
Option 2
1 teaspoon maple syrup
Adds warmth and some sweetness, not vanilla taste. Fine in cookies, oatmeal and pancakes.
Option 3
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
Stronger and different, but works in cakes and cookies. Use half as much.
Amounts are for a US recipe. Need to convert them? See cups to grams.
Questions
What can I use instead of vanilla extract?
For 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, you can use 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste; or 1 teaspoon maple syrup; or 1/2 teaspoon almond extract.
What is the best substitute for vanilla extract?
For most recipes, use 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste. A 1:1 swap. Shows as black flecks, so it suits custard, ice cream and pale cakes.