Homemade Vanilla Sugar
Learn how to make vanilla sugar at home with any form of vanilla you have on hand. My easy vanilla sugar DIY recipe includes 4 different methods using your choice of vanilla beans, vanilla extract, or vanilla paste. Plus, download and print a set of my free custom labels to make your jars of vanilla sugar look like they came from a specialty store!
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
Vanilla (use one of the following):
- 2 fresh vanilla beans
- 1 tablespoon vanilla bean paste
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean powder
Instructions
Food Processor Method Using Whole Vanilla Beans:
- In a food processor fitted with the steel blade attachment, combine granulated sugar with seeds from the two vanilla beans. Process until the vanilla is fully and evenly incorporated into the sugar.2 cups granulated sugar
- Transfer vanilla sugar to an airtight container, adding the pods (cut in half if needed) before covering with a lid. For the best flavor, store for at least 2 weeks before using.
Food Processor Method Using Vanilla Bean Paste/Extract:
- In a food processor fitted with the steel blade attachment, combine granulated sugar with vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract. Process until the vanilla is fully and evenly incorporated into the sugar. The sugar will get a bit clumpy - this is normal.
- Spread sugar out on in a thin, even layer on a large baking sheet. Let dry for several hours or overnight; the sugar will harden once dry.
- Use a flat spatula to break the dried sugar into pieces and transfer it back to the food processor. Process until all clumps are gone and the mixture has returned to the texture of standard granulated sugar. Store in an airtight container. Feel free to use immediately.
Equipment-Free Method Using Vanilla Bean Powder:
- Combine sugar with ground vanilla beans in a container, mixing with a spoon until the powder is evenly dispersed. For the best flavor, store in an airtight container for at least 2 weeks before using.2 cups granulated sugar |1 teaspoon vanilla bean powder
Equipment-Free Method Using Vanilla Bean Pods:
- Add whole, fresh vanilla beans or the (dry) spent pods of two vanilla beans that were used for another purpose directly to granulated sugar in an airtight container.2 cups granulated sugar
- Let the sugar sit for at least two weeks before using to allow time for the vanilla to infuse the sugar.
- Replenish the container with fresh sugar as you use it.
Notes
Ingredient Notes:
- This recipe can also be made with unrefined sugar, such as coconut sugar, or raw cane sugar, or a sugar-free alternative such as monk fruit or erythritol.
- Grade A vanilla beans are best for this recipe. Feel free to experiment with the variety of vanilla used (Madagascar, Tahitian, etc.).
Storage and Shelf Life Notes:
- Vanilla sugar will keep well stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for at least 2 years.
- Vanilla sugar made using the equipment-free method with vanilla bean pods can be replenished with fresh sugar for up to 1 year before the pods should be replaced. Don't throw them out! You can still use them in a recipe.
- To prevent clumping during storage, allow vanilla bean pods to dry out before adding to your sugar. You can also add a packet of silica to the jar if desired.
Nutrition
Calories: 49kcal | Carbohydrates: 13g | Fat: 0.04g | Sodium: 0.2mg | Potassium: 1mg | Sugar: 13g | Calcium: 0.2mg | Iron: 0.01mg
Nutrition information is an estimate per serving, calculated using standard ingredients. Actual values may vary based on brands used, measurement methods, and more.
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