Can someone tell me please which one is better for baking a cake? and the key difference between the two.
Re: Difference between vanilla paste and vanilla extract
Extract is in liquid form, usually used in baking. Paste is, well paste really. It’s more concentrated than extract but when you use it you see the tiny black flecks of vanilla in whatever you’ve used it in ie ice cream or sauces.
Re: Difference between vanilla paste and vanilla extract
The paste has less alcohol content, but it still contains alcohol.
Re: Difference between vanilla paste and vanilla extract
I believe vanilla paste is more concentrated and is often used in baking when the batter is sensitive to extra liquid content, such as macarons.
Re: Difference between vanilla paste and vanilla extract
hmmm thanks guys , any recommendations of a good brand for vanilla extract or vanilla paste?
Re: Difference between vanilla paste and vanilla extract
Vanilla extract is not halal if its not imitation as it constitutes of 35% of alcohol. Vanilla paste im not sure but if pur vanilla alcohol would be there. I use Imitation vanilla essence
Re: Difference between vanilla paste and vanilla extract
People have mentioned the alcohol content in vanilla extract. Not all extracts have this. You can find vanilla extract that is alcohol free. You can find it at most organic shops.
Re: Difference between vanilla paste and vanilla extract
^Exactly. It’s possible to find vanilla extract without alcohol. You’ll just have to pay a little extra for it. In cakes etc. you can use vanilla powder, it’s perfectly fine. In sauce and creams, I would recommend you use a vanilla pod (unseed and use seeds).
Re: Difference between vanilla paste and vanilla extract
Mezghan & Arzi, would you mind providing links to products that contain no alcohol? I have researched this and looked everywhere with no luck. How do they extract the vanilla without alcohol? What do they use in place of it?
Re: Difference between vanilla paste and vanilla extract
^where are you based? If in the US, you can find vanilla powder, or paste in wholefoods, or speciality food/baking stores. Madagascar pure vanilla powder is one I’ve used previously, it is alcohol free, conversion from liquid to powder is the same. I currently use vanilla paste and I love it.
You can always order it online from amazon/speciality baking store.
Difference between vanilla paste and vanilla extract
I love using whole vanilla pods for making custard bases, especially for creme brûlée or ice creams
Whole Foods or upscale markets all have pure vanilla extracts or pastes that are alcohol free
Re: Difference between vanilla paste and vanilla extract
A couple of links for alcohol free vanilla extract: