Imitation Vanilla

Imitation vanilla is the most widely used form of vanilla flavouring in the world, found in everything from baked goods and ice cream to confectionery and beverages. Its key ingredient, synthetic vanillin, replicates the dominant flavour compound found in real vanilla beans but lacks the hundreds of minor compounds that give natural vanilla extract its complexity.

For most cooking and baking applications — especially where vanilla is one flavour among many — imitation vanilla performs well and is virtually indistinguishable from the real thing once heated. Where vanilla is the star flavour, such as in a custard or vanilla ice cream, the difference can be more noticeable.

Given that natural vanilla is one of the most expensive spices in the world, imitation vanilla offers an accessible alternative at a fraction of the cost. It’s a pantry staple in most Australian kitchens.