Spice

Vanilla

Vanilla planifolia

A sweet, enveloping aroma — warm and creamy, with a balsamic backbone and subtle woody, floral nuances.

  • sweet
  • creamy
  • balsamic
  • woody
  • floral

Aroma compounds

The volatile molecules behind its aroma. Each one adds a distinct note.

  • Vanillin sweet, creamy, quintessential vanilla — the heart of the aroma
  • Guaiacol smoky and phenolic, with a woody edge
  • Acetovanillone sweet and balsamic; extends the vanilla note
  • 4-Vinylguaiacol spicy, clove-like, faintly smoky
  • 2-Phenylethanol floral, rose- and honey-like

In the kitchen

Flavors desserts, creams, ice creams, custards and baked goods — using the split pod in infusions, its scraped seeds, or extract and paste. It also lifts sauces, coffees and beverages.

Season Available year-round as a cured spice; pod harvest is seasonal.
Pairs with
  • Chocolate
  • Coffee
  • Strawberries
  • Banana
  • Caramel
  • Rum

Recipes with vanilla