Vanilla Sugar
Vanilla sugar is a baker’s dream—adding a subtle, aromatic touch of vanilla to your recipes. Making your own homemade version is easy, cost-effective, and lets you skip the additives in store-bought options. Whether you’re sweetening coffee, sprinkling it on desserts, or baking up a storm, this will be your go-to pantry staple.
Why Make Vanilla Sugar at Home?
- Flavorful: Fresh vanilla powder ensures an intense, natural vanilla taste.
- Customizable: Adjust the sweetness or choose sugar-free options like erythritol for dietary preferences.
- Giftable: Pack it in mason jars with pretty labels for a thoughtful homemade gift.
Ingredients
- 6 cups granulated sugar (or sugar-free alternatives like erythritol)
- 3 teaspoons vanilla powder (100% vanilla bean powder)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk the granulated sugar (or substitute) with the vanilla powder until evenly blended.
- For a finer texture, pulse the mixture in a food processor for a few seconds.
- Store:
- Transfer the vanilla sugar to an airtight jar or container. Mason jars work wonderfully and keep the mix fresh for up to 12 months.
- Refill:
- When you need more, combine 6 cups of sugar with 1 teaspoon of vanilla powder per 2 cups of sugar (e.g., 3 teaspoons for 6 cups).
Creative Uses
- Baking: Substitute regular sugar with vanilla sugar in cakes, cookies, and muffins for extra flavor.
- Coffee & Tea: Stir into hot beverages for a touch of sweetness and vanilla aroma.
- Dessert Toppings: Sprinkle over fruit, pancakes, waffles, or crème brûlée.
- Whipped Cream: Use it to sweeten whipped cream for an elevated vanilla touch.
- Gifting: Decorate jars with ribbons and tags for a personal and delicious gift idea.
Tips for the Best Results
- Vanilla Powder Quality: Use 100% vanilla bean powder for the most robust flavor. Avoid synthetic alternatives.
- Storage: Keep the sugar in a cool, dry place to prevent clumping.
- Variety: Experiment with brown sugar or coconut sugar for a different twist on the classic recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Homemade vanilla sugar is more than just an ingredient—it’s a little luxury that enhances everyday recipes. Plus, the process is so simple, you’ll wonder why you ever bought it premade. From baking masterpieces to cozy coffee moments, this vanilla sugar brings elegance and sweetness to every occasion.
Looking for more DIY ideas? Check out my Brownie Mason Jar Mix or M&M Mason Jar Cookies for more inspiration.
Give it a try and elevate your kitchen with this aromatic, versatile essential. Who knew such a small effort could yield such delicious results? 🌟
Vanilla Sugar
Ingredients
- 6 cup granulated sugar (yes you can substitute sugar free options)
- 3 teaspoons vanilla powder 100% bean powder
Instructions
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the ingredients, pulse in your food processor and store in a cool, dry place for up to 12 months.
- To refill: In a mixing bowl, combine 6 cups of the sugar with 1 teaspoon per 2 cups (so 3 tsp for 6 cups)
- Keep your homemade vanilla bean sugar stored in a jar with a tight-fitting lid. Small mason jars are great and can be jazzed up with pretty labels for gifting. I love using Weck jars just for their look but they also preserve really well and make a super pretty gift.