Can you substitute vanilla extract with essence?

Vanilla extract and vanilla essence are both used to add vanilla flavour to food and beverages, but they are not exactly the same.

Vanilla extract is made by steeping vanilla beans in alcohol, usually vodka, for several months. This process extracts the flavour and aroma compounds from the beans into the alcohol. Vanilla extract is a concentrated flavouring, and a little goes a long way.

Vanilla essence is a flavouring made from synthetic vanillin, which is the main flavour compound in vanilla beans. Vanilla essence is a much cheaper alternative to vanilla extract, but it does not have the same complex flavour and aroma.

In general, you can substitute vanilla essence for vanilla extract in recipes, but you may need to use more of it to achieve the same level of flavour. For example, if a recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, you may need to use 2 teaspoons of vanilla essence.

However, some recipes may be specifically designed for vanilla extract, and substituting vanilla essence may not work well. For example, vanilla extract is often used in baking, because it helps to brown the dough or batter. Vanilla essence does not have the same browning effect, so it may not be a suitable substitute in baking recipes.

If you are unsure whether vanilla essence can be substituted for vanilla extract in a particular recipe, it is best to err on the side of caution and use vanilla extract.