We have seen some fun ways of using vanilla outside of baking lately so we wanted to give a spotlight to creative uses around the kitchen, the home and outside, for one of our favorite ingredients.
One of the most common notes that we see is “vanilla smells so good, I want to dab a little on my wrists as a perfume!” and we remember our grandmothers doing this when we were in the kitchen baking memories with them. Vanilla is a natural air freshener and one of our favorite “2-for-1” tricks is to microwave a (microwave safe) bowl that is filled with 1 cup of water and 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract for 4 minutes. It makes your house smell amazing and the steam releases microwaved-on spills for an easy wipe up!
Read on for other ways to use vanilla when it’s just too hot to bake!
Creative Savory Recipe Ideas
Vanilla Aioli & Sweet Potato Fries
This Vanilla Bean Aioli Sauce is a luxurious dipping and topping! We love it with homemade (or from frozen) sweet potato French Fries or Tots! It would also be perfect on a hamburger with caramelized onions and blue cheese crumbles. The possibilities are really endless and we’d love to hear what you enjoy this aioli with!
Caprese Skewers with Vanilla Bean Olive Oil
Vanilla infuses this savory staple with a homemade balsamic glaze that you will be captivated by! The ingredients simple but the flavor is next level on this one!
Jicama Salad with Vanilla Goat Cheese
The crispy jicama and carrots, combined with the sweet tartness of the orange and vanilla bean infused goat cheese make this a most sensational salad! Enjoy it with a unique vanilla bean vinaigrette.
Summery Snacks with Sneaky Vanilla Flavors
Peach and Prosciutto Toast with Vanilla Whipped Ricotta Spread
It’s the in-season peaches and vanilla whipped ricotta that make this fancy little snack a next level treat!
Spiced Caramelized Pecans
Sweet and salty and everything you would want in a caramelized pecan! The addition of vanilla here rounds out the spice to cut the heat and add extra depth of flavor.
Truly Unexpected Uses!
Natural Spider Deterrent
Spiders don’t like vanilla. Use whole vanilla beans to drive away those eight-legged creatures.
Bug Repellent?
We’ve seen this trend all over social media and just came across this article that vanilla could be effective against mosquitos. Our whole team is busy testing it right now! Let us know what you think if you try it!
Other Ideas!
We love to enhance the flavors of our favorite cocktails with infused liquors. It’s easy to have a bottle infusing and experiment and they make great gifts!
We’ll leave you with a laundry list of other uses for vanilla outside of your baking!
- In cocktails. Vanilla extract can add a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to cocktails. It’s a great addition to classic cocktails like vanilla vodka martinis, vanilla rum old fashioned, and vanilla gin fizzes.
- In savory dishes. Vanilla extract can also be used in savory dishes to add a touch of sweetness and complexity. Try adding a few drops to tomato sauces, marinades, or grilled meats.
- In coffee and tea. Vanilla extract can add a delicious flavor to coffee and tea. Simply add a few drops to your cup of joe or tea and enjoy.
- In smoothies. Vanilla extract can also be added to smoothies for a boost of flavor. Try adding it to a banana smoothie, strawberry smoothie, or even a green smoothie.
- As a natural air freshener. Vanilla extract can also be used as a natural air freshener. Simply add a few drops to a cotton ball and place it in a room. The sweet scent of vanilla will help to freshen the air and remove any unwanted odors.
- In skin care products. Vanilla extract can also be used in skin care products. It’s a natural antiseptic and can help to soothe and moisturize the skin. Try adding a few drops to your favorite lotion or body wash.
These are just a few of the many ways people may use vanilla extract outside of baking recipes. With its versatile flavor and aroma, vanilla extract can be used to enhance a variety of foods and beverages. So next time you’re looking for a way to add a touch of sweetness and sophistication to your dish, reach for the Rodelle vanilla extract and vanilla beans!