Yahoo Lifestyle We Tried 10 Different Vanilla Extracts and the Winner Will Make Your Holiday Baking 10x Better
When it comes to holiday baking, few flavors can elevate your creations quite like vanilla extract. Its rich, aromatic flavor is an essential ingredient, enhancing your cookies, cakes, pies (and also savory stuff) year-round. Over the years, what used to be a pretty small selection of vanilla extracts has grown and grown. With this great array of brands—ranging from hard-to-find artisanal producers to more widely accessible options—how can you identify which vanilla extract is best for you and your baking?
To help you sort that out, I organized a tasting event with a few fellow home bakers. Together, we explored a curated collection of vanilla extract brands, embarking on a flavorful journey to find the perfect bottle that will take your baking to new heights, just in time for prime holiday baking season. Read on to find out exactly how we tested these extracts to come up with our list of 10 vanilla extracts, ranked from worst to best.
Related: We Baked Cookies With 10 Different All-Purpose Flours and the Winner Won By a Landslide
What to Look For When Buying Vanilla Extract
When buying vanilla, it's important to consider several key factors to ensure you're choosing the best option for your needs.
Pure is where it's at: If your budget allows it, always go for pure vanilla extract instead of imitation vanilla. Pure vanilla extract is made from real vanilla beans, whereas imitation vanilla uses synthetic flavors, often resulting in a less complex, often not-so-good taste. If you want to nerd out about the differences among the pure vanilla extracts, look into how the brand makes the extract. Some brands utilize cold extraction methods that preserve the delicate nuances of the beans, while others may use heat, which is said to alter the flavor profile.
Vanilla bean origin: Vanilla beans from different regions offer distinct flavor profiles. For instance, Madagascar Bourbon vanilla is known for its rich, sweet, and creamy flavor, while Mexican vanilla tends to have a slightly spicier, smoky taste, and Tahitian vanilla is prized for its floral, fruity flavor, often used in more delicate desserts.
Vanilla-to-alcohol ratio: The strength of vanilla extract depends on both the ratio of vanilla beans to alcohol and the alcohol content. A higher ratio of beans results in a more concentrated, flavorful extract, with premium extracts using at least 1.5–2 vanilla beans per fluid ounce. The alcohol content is also important, as higher alcohol levels make the extract more potent; pure vanilla extract must contain at least 35% alcohol by law, though some brands use higher-proof alcohol for an even stronger flavor. Non-alcoholic options are available. They're typically made with glycerin or other solvents.
Packaging: When choosing vanilla extract, opt for glass bottles, as they help preserve the flavor of the extract. Plastic bottles can affect the taste of vanilla over time. It's also a good idea to look for dark glass bottles, such as amber, which protect the extract from light that can degrade its flavor.
Price, certification and brand reputation: Pure vanilla extract is generally more expensive, but it offers better quality and flavor, with higher concentrations of vanilla beans and superior ingredients. If your budget allows for it, opt for reputable brands and artisan producers, even though they may come at a premium. Additionally, certified products like Fair Trade or Organic may cost more, but they ensure ethical sourcing and sustainability. Less expensive vanilla extracts may lack the depth and authenticity of higher-quality extracts.
😋😋 SIGN UP to get delicious recipes, handy kitchen hacks & more in our daily Pop Kitchen newsletter 🍳🍔
How We Tested These Vanilla Extracts
To explore how each brand’s flavor profile came through in a recipe, we tested them all in a simple glaze. We maintained a consistent base of milk and powdered sugar and carefully divided the total amount of extract in the recipe by the number of vanilla brands (in this case 10), allowing us to add the precise amount of extract to each individual portion of glaze. By taking this approach, we were able to fully appreciate the unique flavors each vanilla brought to the table. Tasting blindly, with no labels to sway our opinions, allowed us to focus solely on the true essence of each extract.
We evaluated the extracts based on the following criteria:
Flavor: A good vanilla extract should have a rich, deep flavor with complex notes that include sweetness, with a slight floral or fruity undertone. It should taste smooth and well-rounded, without any harsh or artificial aftertaste. Overall, the flavor should enhance whatever dish it's used in, adding warmth and depth without overpowering other ingredients.
Aroma: A high-quality vanilla extract will have a bold fragrance that envelops the senses, hinting at the sweet and creamy notes that characterize genuine vanilla. The aroma sets the stage for the flavors to come, making it a crucial aspect of any vanilla extract.
Availability: Due to its use in a wide range of recipes, from cakes to sauces, this essential ingredient should be readily available either in grocery stores or online.
Cost: High-quality vanilla extracts often come with a higher price tag, reflecting the intricate and labor-intensive processes involved in its production. This naturally raises the question: how much is too much, and is the investment truly worth it? That's a personal decision, but we did take price into account when ranking the vanillas.
As we began our tasting, we were amazed by the wide range of taste nuances among the different extracts. Some brands offered a deep, robust vanilla essence that lingered on the palate, while others delivered a brighter, more floral note that could elevate even the simplest of recipes. We carefully evaluated each sample, paying close attention to the subtleties in aroma and taste. A few stood out as clear winners, destined to become staples in our holiday baking repertoire, while others were more hit or miss. At the end of the tasting, we had a clear winner, which is delicious, relatively affordable and widely available. Win, win, win!
Related: Alright, We Love It in Our Lattes, but Where Exactly Does Vanilla Flavoring Come From?
And why should you trust this ranking? I'm the founder of the Food Hunter's Guide to Cuisine and am a passionate self-taught home cook with more than 20 years of experience experimenting in the kitchen. Along the way, I’ve had the privilege of cooking alongside talented chefs in various settings and have created recipes for major brands and lifestyle magazines. My specialty is baking, which means I know my way around a bottle of vanilla. As a bonus, I'm a research librarian by trade, which helps me create a plan and an organizing structure for these taste tests.
10 Pure Vanilla Extracts Ranked Worst to Best
10. McCormick Pure Vanilla Extract
If you grew up in the 70s, this is most likely the vanilla of your childhood—the familiar, comforting staple that was baked into every homemade treat. Although McCormick offers a familiar flavor that evokes nostalgic memories, tasters noted that it didn’t quite stand up to some of the other more nuanced options. During our tasting, the team noticed a subtle, chemical undertone. We assumed that might be coming from the plastic bottle but don't know for sure.
Regardless of the reason for that off taste, the flavor didn’t endure. While this brand didn’t entirely meet the expectations of all the reviewers, it remains a widely-loved ingredient, readily available in almost every grocery store, making it a convenient choice when needed.
Related: How to Make Vanilla Extract, According to Ina Garten
9. Watkins Pure Vanilla Extract
Watkins brand vanilla provides an affordable option with a rich legacy of 100+ years of tradition. Made with non-GMO and kosher ingredients and crafted from the highest quality Madagascar vanilla beans, this product is backed by generations of expertise and has long been a trusted choice in many kitchens.
However, some tasters noted a subtle artificial taste that impacted its overall ranking. The group’s opinions were divided, with some enjoying it and others less impressed. While the entire panel didn’t fully embrace its flavor and pointed out the less-than-ideal plastic packaging, Watkins remains a trusted go-to brand for many home bakers.
8. Beyond Good Vanilla Extract
Available online and at Whole Foods, Beyond Good Vanilla Extract works directly with farmers to source both vanilla and chocolate. We love that business focus and the intent behind it. In our tasting, this option ended up near the back of the pack because it has a more subtle flavor profile compared to some of the bolder options on this list. It’s lighter in both flavor and color, with a noticeable aroma that opens up on the palate. The team agreed the taste is clean and straightforward, offering a middle-of-the-road flavor that reveals no hidden complexities—just a good, traditional vanilla essence.
The main downside is its limited availability in major grocery chains. However, despite being less accessible than other brands, its nuanced, nutty undertones make it a delightful choice for those seeking a more subtle vanilla experience.
Related: The Genius Make-Ahead Christmas Cookie Trick We Wish We Knew Sooner
7. Frontier Co-op Organic Pure Vanilla Extract
Frontier Vanilla Extract is made with organic, Fair Trade Certified vanilla beans, ensuring ethical sourcing and sustainable farming practices. The darker color of this organic extract suggests a rich character, enhanced by earthy undertones with a hint of smokiness. It delivers impressive depth and complexity, all at an excellent price point ($6.50 an ounce), making it a wonderful addition to your pantry for culinary experimentation. One taster in particular noted that this extract would be especially well-suited for cocktails and savory dishes.
6. Thrive Market Organic Pure Vanilla
This vanilla has a rich, almost molasses-like taste, with a deep, complex flavor profile that comes from organic, ethically sourced Madagascar bourbon vanilla beans and organic alcohol. While most of the team considered it a standout choice for cookies and baked goods, one taster found the sweetness a bit too pronounced. Though it comes in a plastic bottle, the packaging is made from recycled materials, making it a more eco-conscious option. At just under $13 for four ounces, Thrive Market’s organic vanilla is a great choice for frequent vanilla users.
5. Simply Organic Pure Vanilla Extract
The tasting team was impressed by the clean, pure flavor of this brand. We noted its delicate balance of floral notes with subtle earthy undertones. What stood out most, however, was the remarkably low alcohol presence, especially when compared to other brands we sampled. That said, some felt the flavor might be a bit too simple for bakers accustomed to the depth and complexity of other brands. Overall, this is a wonderfully smooth and well-rounded vanilla extract.
Related: We Tried 13 Store-Bought Pie Crusts and the Winner Is Ina Garten-Approved
4. Rodelle Organic Vanilla Extract
Rodelle vanilla extract delivers a bold, rich flavor with prominent notes of caramel, molasses, and bourbon, all balanced by a sweet, inviting aroma. The difference in taste is striking—this extract effortlessly outshines some of the alternatives, making it an ideal choice for home cooks looking to elevate their recipes with a deep, luxurious vanilla flavor.
It's worth noting that the brand also offers another standout product—gourmet baking cocoa. The premium Dutch-processed cocoa powder boasts a rich, dark finish and a complex, full-bodied flavor. When paired together, the combination of the smooth vanilla and intense cocoa creates a perfect harmony of flavors, making them a must-have duo for any baker. Chocolate crinkle cookie fans take note!
Related: 30 Innovative Crinkle Cookies Made for the Last-Minute Baker in All of Us
3. Singing Dog Organic Pure Vanilla Extract
The team unanimously agreed that Singing Dog Vanilla is a product we’d want to include in our baked goods. It stands out with its pure, ice cream-like vanilla flavor, offering just a subtle hint of alcohol on the palate. The aroma is exceptionally pleasant—slightly more delicate than some of the other extracts we tried—allowing its purity to shine through. In recipes where vanilla is the star, it enhances the flavor without overpowering other ingredients, creating a harmonious balance.
Beyond its exceptional taste, Singing Dog Vanilla is also committed to sustainability and ethical sourcing. This dedication to both quality and social responsibility makes it a solid choice.
2. Heilala Pure Vanilla Extract
Heilala differentiates itself in the market with its unique three-month cold extraction process, which yields a vanilla extract with an intense aroma and a smooth, sweet flavor profile. The warm, earthy notes reminded us of barrel-aged spirits, lingering beautifully on the taste buds. While it's an excellent choice for those seeking a rich, full-bodied vanilla, it is $31.76 for 3.38 fl oz, which might be out of the reach of many home bakers. Despite the cost, the team highly recommends it for those in search of a top-tier vanilla extract, agreeing that its depth and richness justify the investment for serious baking enthusiasts.
1. Nielsen Massey Madagascar Bourbon Pure Vanilla Extract
The tasting panel was highly impressed with Nielsen-Massey Madagascar Bourbon Pure Vanilla Extract, naming it the group's top pick. We loved the rich, classic flavor profile, with a smooth, refined vanilla essence. The extract provided a perfectly balanced sweetness—neither overpowering nor too subtle—with just the right amount of depth to complement other ingredients without dominating them.
Crafted from a proprietary blend of select beans, this vanilla extract adheres to rigorous quality standards to deliver a consistently premium product. The panel agreed that this option is incredibly versatile, offering exceptional flavor that would bring out the best in a wide range of recipes. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, if you're looking for a refined, reliable vanilla that delivers both complexity and versatility, this is the one. It's also widely available in stores and online, which is an added bonus.
The brand's Pure Vanilla Extract is also very good and is even more widely available, so if you can't find the Madagascar Bourbon version, don't hesitate to pick up the Pure Vanilla Extract instead.
Up Next:
Related: We Ranked 12 Olive Oil Brands and You Can Buy the Winner at Whole Foods
