What is Vanilla Sugar?
Vanilla sugar is regular sugar with a scent of vanilla and it will add a bit of vanilla flavor to your pound cake. However, the flavor will not be the same if compare to vanilla extract or vanilla paste. But I can tell you that this is more interesting than just using the regular blind sugar. It’s actually as simple as adding the vanilla bean into the sugar. In this article, I am going to show you how to make it with three different ways. You can try the method that you like and suitable with your own needs.
First Method : Empty Pod & Sugar
This method is the most commonly used, because it’s the simplest way to make it. You just need a few empty vanilla pods (make sure it’s dry) and stick it inside the sugar.
The amount of the bean needed is completely up to you but I suggest you to put one pod to 2 cups of sugar. After that, just leave it for a while. That’s it, it is ready to use!
Second Method : Mix of Vanilla Powder and Sugar
In this method, we are going to use empty vanilla pods. Prepare 2 cups of sugar and blend it with the empty pod in a food processor. So essentially, it is sugar and vanilla powder blended together. This way, you will have much stronger vanilla flavor if compares with the first method.
Third Method : Vanilla Seeds, Pod and Sugar
Last but not least, you can use this method if you are looking for a strong vanilla flavor. You will need a full vanilla pod this time, because we are going to use the seeds.
First of all, scrape the vanilla seeds from the pod. Then, put the seeds into sugar and pinch it with your hand until well mixed. Next, cut the empty pods into medium pieces and put them into the sugar. With the seeds inside, you will have stronger vanilla flavor.
So basically, if you want the strongest flavor of vanilla you can use the third method. But if you prefer a slight vanilla scent, then the first method will suit you well.
Note : you can use a mason jar with an airtight lid to get the best result.
