I Stopped Buying Vanilla Extract—This Is 100 Times Better

For as long as I can remember, you’d never catch me without vanilla extract in my cupboard, ready for my next bake. Then my baking life transformed when I discovered vanilla bean paste. It even became my go-to upgrade for breakfast oatmeal or yogurt.

Vanilla bean paste strikes the perfect balance between vanilla extract and whole vanilla beans—luxurious, concentrated, and bold in flavor like the beans themselves, yet easy to use like extract. It adds that extra depth and elegance to your next baked good and beyond. That's the magic of vanilla bean paste.

How To Use Vanilla Bean Paste for Baking

Anytime a baking recipe calls for vanilla extract, I substitute an equal amount of vanilla bean paste. However, because the paste has a stronger flavor, you can use slightly less if you prefer. It’s an easy way to elevate your baking with one simple swap.

Vanilla bean paste has a thicker texture and contains real vanilla bean seeds, transforming both flavor and mouthfeel. The seeds also create those tiny specks that give your treats a touch of sophistication.

My favorite cheesecake recipe (from Natalie Paull’s Beatrix Bakes) became a vanilla bean cloud of goodness when I replaced the extract with paste. The upgraded dessert instantly became a family favorite; now people ask me to make it for birthdays and gatherings. This could be you!

Two Ways To Use Vanilla Bean Paste Beyond Baking

Upgrade Yogurt: I love adding vanilla bean paste to my morning yogurt bowls. The fresh, strong vanilla flavor is so delicious that I crave it the moment I wake up. Plus, I no longer buy vanilla yogurt. Instead, I start with plain yogurt—Greek or regular—and stir in about 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla bean paste for every eight-ounce container.  And there it is, my very own homemade vanilla bean yogurt. 

Although vanilla bean paste has a naturally sweet flavor, feel free to add sugar or another sweetener if you like. I top mine with berries, sliced bananas, walnuts, and granola—but you can customize your toppings to match your creative spirit.

Upgrade Oatmeal: I couldn’t get enough vanilla bean paste, so I started adding it to oatmeal, too. I mix in about 1/2 teaspoon of paste and a dash of ground cinnamon for every 1/4 cup of uncooked oats, adding both to the water before cooking on the stovetop. The vanilla gives the oatmeal a rich, sweet flavor without added sugar. I finish it with a dollop of peanut butter and sliced banana.

Try these two upgrades—you’ll be jumping out of bed for oatmeal or yogurt.

The Best Brand of Vanilla Bean Paste

My favorite brand is Simply Organic. It offers great quality and convenience, and it’s easy to find at Target, Whole Foods, Walmart, and Sprouts.

When choosing a vanilla bean paste, check the ingredient list. The first ingredient should be vanilla beans, vanilla bean extractives, or something similar—not water or sugar. Ingredients are listed by weight, with the first being the most highest.

If water or sugar tops the list, the paste will likely have a diluted vanilla flavor and a sweeter taste. Paying attention to ingredients helps ensure you’re getting the best quality and flavor for your money.