What is vanilla essence? glossary, uses, recipes

In the Indian context, vanilla essence is a synthetic flavouring agent that mimics the taste and aroma of natural vanilla extract. Unlike natural vanilla, which is derived from the pods of the vanilla orchid, vanilla essence is typically made from a chemical compound called vanillin. It is an affordable and widely available alternative to the more expensive natural vanilla extract, making it a popular choice for home bakers and professional chefs across India. The use of vanilla essence has become deeply ingrained in modern Indian baking, providing a familiar and comforting flavour that is both versatile and easy to use. Its distinct sweet and floral notes have made it an indispensable ingredient in a wide array of desserts and sweets.

Across India, vanilla essence is used in countless applications, reflecting the country's diverse culinary landscape. It is a staple ingredient in a variety of baked goods, including cakes, cookies, and biscuits, where it provides a foundational flavour that complements other ingredients like chocolate, nuts, and fruits. Beyond baking, vanilla essence finds its way into traditional Indian sweets and beverages. It is often added to kheer (rice pudding), falooda (a cold dessert drink), and lassi (a yogurt-based drink) to enhance their flavour profile. Its adaptability and ubiquitous presence in grocery stores and markets make it an easy and accessible choice for adding a touch of sweetness and fragrance to a wide range of dishes, from simple home-cooked meals to elaborate festive preparations.

The versatility of vanilla essence is best showcased through the variety of recipes it is used in. A classic example is the vanilla sponge cake, a foundational recipe in many Indian households. This simple yet delicious cake relies on vanilla essence to give it a light, fragrant flavour that pairs well with different frostings and toppings. Another popular use is in vanilla custard, often served with fresh fruit. Here, the essence provides the primary flavour for the creamy custard, making it a simple and satisfying dessert. For a traditional touch, vanilla essence can also be added to shahi tukda, a rich bread pudding, to subtly enhance the sweetness and aroma of the rabri (thickened milk) used in the dish.

In addition to these well-known recipes, vanilla essence also plays a crucial role in modern and fusion cuisine. It is often used in milkshakes and smoothies to add a creamy, sweet flavour, or in Indian-style cupcakeswith unique toppings like gulab jamun or saffron-infused frosting. The essence's ability to seamlessly blend with both traditional and contemporary ingredients makes it a favourite among creative cooks. Whether it's a simple batch of vanilla ice cream or a more complex fusion dessert, vanilla essence provides a reliable and familiar flavour that is universally loved, solidifying its status as an essential kitchen ingredient in India.

How to select vanilla essence

It is very easily available in grocery stores. Pay for a good brand and verify on the dates stamped - manufacturing and expiry.

Culinary Uses of vanilla essence in Indian Cooking

· If they are being used in desserts such as ice cream, custards, crème sauces, or any liquid textured dessert, the essence can be added to the water being steeped for the dessert.

· Vanilla extract is a stronger, liquid form of the flavoring and is often used to flavor brownies, cookies and a variety of cakes.

· Vanilla essence is an excellent food flavouring agent

· A major use of vanilla essence is in flavouring ice cream.

Indian cakes using vanilla essence 

eggless vanilla sponge cake recipe is a super easy cake to make and the best part is that this is a 100% eggless vanilla sponge cake recipe. This cake has been made eggless due to the usage of condensed milk and hence also called as eggless vanilla cake using condensed milk. The vanilla flavour comes from vanilla essence. 

eggless chocolate cake in pressure cooker recipe | eggless chocolate pressure cooker cake | pressure cooker cake | eggless chocolate cake without oven | 

Indian muffins using vanilla essence 

The eggless apple cinnamon muffin is so delicious, it will entice even those who are not very fond of apples. The fruity aroma of apples and the delicate smell of cinnamon fill the entire house with their magic even as these apple muffins bakes! 

smoothies using vanilla essence 

banana oats smoothie recipe | 3 ingredient banana oats smoothie | healthy Indian banana oats smoothie | no sugar smoothie | To make banana oats smoothie, add the oats in a mixer and blend to a fine powder. Add almond milk, bananas, vanilla essence or vanilla extract and ice-cubes and blend in a juicer till the mixture is smooth and frothy.

How to store vanilla essence

Store it in the refrigerator, sealed properly. Alternatively keep the extract in a cool dry area away from the heat.