Tag Archives: vanilla

Coconut Cream Vanilla Bean Whipped Cream

Dinner Ideas April 19, 2026 Leave a comment
Two-layer strawberry shortcake with whipped cream and fresh strawberries on a plate

Creating vegan-friendly vanilla bean coconut cream whipped cream is a delightful process that combines plant-based ingredients to produce a rich, creamy topping suitable for a variety of desserts. This alternative to traditional whipped cream is not only dairy-free but also offers a unique flavor profile enhanced by the natural sweetness of coconut and the aromatic essence of vanilla beans.

Ingredients

  • 1 14oz can of full-fat coconut milk
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1 vanilla bean pod

Process

  1. Refrigerate the unopened can of coconut milk in the refrigerator for 24 – 48 hours. This separates the cream from the liquid.
  2. Chill your mixing bowl and beater in the refrigerator or freezer for 10 – 15 minutes.
  3. Slice the vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape the seeds out of the pod and set aside.
  4. Open the can and carefully scoop out the thickened cream into the chilled bowl, leaving the liquid in the can (can be used for other food purposes)
  5. Using a mixer, beat the coconut cream on medium-high speed for 2 – 3 minutes until it becomes fluffy. 
  6. Add the scraped vanilla beans and powdered sugar into the cream and mix until incorporated for another 1 – 2 minutes. Stop once soft peaks form. Use a tablespoon of liquid from can to lighten the whipped cream if it is too thick.

Tips for Success

  • Use Full-Fat Coconut Cream milk. Light or low-fat coconut milk will not whip properly due to insufficient fat content.
  • Avoid liquid sweeteners, stick to powdered sugar to prevent the cream from becoming runny.
  • Be sure your tools are cold. Chilled cream, bowl and beaters help achieve the best volume and texture.
  • Store in an airtight glass container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Re-whip if it separates or hardens.
  • Coconut Milk recommendations include Savoy Coconut Cream, Aroy-D Coconut Milk, and Nature’s Charm Coco Whipping Cream. These are suggested for the best results.

Vanilla Bean Whipped Cream

Dinner Ideas April 19, 2026 Leave a comment
Bowl of whipped cream with visible vanilla bean specks and a spoon
A bowl of creamy vanilla bean whipped cream is ready to serve

Crafted with fresh ingredients, this whipped cream has a smooth, creamy texture and a pleasant vanilla aroma. It is a versatile topping suitable for various desserts. You can use homemade vanilla whipped cream on:

  • Fresh fruit salads
  • Warm desserts like pies, cobblers, and crisps
  • Chocolate cakes and brownies
  • Ice cream sundaes and parfaits

Its rich vanilla scent and soft texture make it a good addition to both simple and fancy desserts.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups of heavy whipping cream
  • 2 Vanilla bean pods
  • ½ cup powdered sugar

Process

  1. Slice each vanilla bean in half lengthwise using a sharp knife. Scrape the seeds out of the pod and set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, begin to whip the heavy cream at medium-high speed until thickened and peaks form.
  3. Add the vanilla bean seeds and powdered sugar, then continue beating at high speed until blended. Be careful not to overwhip the cream; it will turn to butter. Turn the mixer off.
  4. Store in an airtight glass container for up to 4 days.
  5. Save the empty bean pod and use it for other vanilla bean recipes.
Hand scraping black vanilla bean seeds from split pod with knife on wood board
Scraping vanilla bean seeds onto a wooden cutting board with a knife.

Vanilla Extract – Homemade

Dessert, Fun Stuff, Homemade Vanilla Extract April 17, 2026 Comments: 3
Glass jar of homemade vanilla extract with cork stopper and decorative label
A charming homemade vanilla extract jar tied with a rustic bow, perfect for gifting.

Ever wondered why bother making your own vanilla extract when store-bought options are so easy? Well, here’s the scoop: store prices for vanilla are all over the place, making homemade a smart, budget-friendly choice. Plus, you get to tweak the flavor strength to your liking—no more settling for weak, artificial vanilla. Many commercial brands skimp on real vanilla, opting for imitation or synthetic ingredients, or they just add less vanilla to save costs. When you craft your own, you’re paying for rich, authentic flavor, not just convenience. Homemade vanilla is a game-changer for bakers craving depth and quality in every drop!

Ingredients

  • 8 grade A vanilla beans (see note below for types of vanilla beans)
  • 8 ounces of vodka (or other liquor – see note below)

Process

  1. Begin by slicing the vanilla bean down the center to release the seeds.
  2. The rule of thumb is one vanilla bean to one ounce of liquor. I prefer unflavored vodka because it provides a clean, neutral base that lets the true flavor of the vanilla beans shine.
  3. In an 8-ounce glass jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine 8 sliced vanilla beans with the liquor of your choice.
  4. Store the infused vanilla out of direct sunlight and give it a shake once per week.
  5. Vanilla will be ready to use in 2 months.
  6. Vanilla sediment is normal, edible, and adds another depth of flavor. The sediment consists of tiny vanilla seeds and bean particles released during extraction. Filtering the sediment is optional. Some people prefer to leave the specks because they indicate real vanilla. If you want a clearer appearance for gifts, you can pour the vanilla through a coffee filter. After filtering, you can put the beans back into the vanilla, so they continue to release flavor when given as a gift.
  7. Long Shelf Life: The high alcohol content in unflavored vodka acts as a preservative, allowing the vanilla extract to last for years when stored properly in a cool, dark place. This longevity makes it a practical choice for making large batches of vanilla extract at home.

Note: Use 80-proof alcohol, such as vodka, bourbon, brandy, or rum. You don’t need expensive alcohol; cheaper options are fine. The vanilla flavor comes from vanilla beans, so buy good-quality beans. Avoid flavored vodka because it often contains artificial flavors that are not suitable for making pure vanilla extract.

Types of grade A vanilla beans:

  • Madagascar Vanilla – very common and has a creamy and rich flavor
  • Mexican Vanilla – has a darker, almost smoky flavor
  • Tahitian Vanilla – also very common and has a rich floral flavor

Vanilla Bean Syrup

Vanilla Bean Sugar

Vanilla Bean Sugar Cubes