How to Make Vanilla Sugar with Vanilla Extract

Creating your own vanilla sugar is a simple and rewarding process that can elevate the flavor of countless recipes. Vanilla sugar is a blend of granulated sugar and vanilla extract, which infuses the sugar with the rich, aromatic essence of vanilla. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, making vanilla sugar with vanilla extract is a straightforward task that yields delicious results. Let’s dive into the steps to create this fragrant sweetener.

Ingredients

To make vanilla sugar with vanilla extract, you’ll need the following ingredients:

– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Begin by measuring out 1 cup of granulated sugar into a clean, dry bowl. This is the base for your vanilla sugar.
2. Next, add 1 tablespoon of pure vanilla extract to the sugar. It’s crucial to use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor; imitation vanilla will not yield the same results.
3. Stir the sugar and vanilla extract together until they are well combined. The sugar should be evenly coated with the vanilla extract.
4. Spread the vanilla sugar out on a baking sheet or in a shallow dish. This will allow it to dry out and the vanilla flavor to infuse the sugar.
5. Let the vanilla sugar sit undisturbed for at least 24 hours. During this time, the sugar will absorb the vanilla extract and the moisture will evaporate, resulting in a dry, fragrant sugar.
6. After 24 hours, give the vanilla sugar a final stir to ensure it is well mixed. At this point, you can use it in your recipes or store it in an airtight container for future use.

Storage and Usage

Vanilla sugar can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for several months. It’s best to keep it away from direct sunlight and heat to preserve its flavor. When using vanilla sugar in your recipes, you can substitute it for regular sugar in a 1:1 ratio. This means that if a recipe calls for 1 cup of sugar, you can use 1 cup of vanilla sugar instead.

Conclusion

Making vanilla sugar with vanilla extract is a straightforward process that yields a delicious and fragrant sweetener. By infusing granulated sugar with the rich essence of vanilla, you can elevate the flavor of countless recipes. So, the next time you’re baking or cooking, consider giving this homemade vanilla sugar a try for a touch of luxurious vanilla flavor.