How to Make Vanilla Sugar: The Secret Ingredient Every Kitchen Needs

If you’ve ever tasted a dessert with that irresistible hint of natural vanilla, chances are vanilla sugar was behind the magic. It’s one of those simple, elegant ingredients that instantly transforms coffee, cookies, and cakes and the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make at home.

At Tropical Vanilla, we love showing how versatile real vanilla beans can be, and this is one of our favourite ways to use them.

What Is Vanilla Sugar? 🌿

Vanilla sugar is simply sugar infused with real vanilla beans.
Unlike artificial vanilla flavouring, it carries the rich, warm aroma of pure vanilla making it perfect for baking, beverages, or even sprinkling on top of pancakes.

You can make it using any type of sugar (white, raw, or even coconut sugar), depending on your taste and recipe.

What You’ll Need 🍦

Ingredients:

• 1–2 whole Madagascar Vanilla Beans (or your favourite variety)
• 2 cups of sugar

Equipment:

• An airtight glass jar or container
• A small knife

How to Make Vanilla Sugar 🥄

Step 1: Prepare the Vanilla Beans
Use a sharp knife to split the vanilla beans lengthwise. Scrape out the tiny seeds (the caviar) and add them directly into your sugar.

Step 2: Mix Well
Add the scraped beans and empty pods to the sugar. Stir or shake the jar gently until everything is evenly distributed.

Step 3: Infuse and Store
Seal the jar tightly and let it sit for at least one week before using. The longer it infuses, the stronger the flavour becomes.

💡 Tip: Don’t discard the pods after you’ve used the seeds for baking they’re full of flavour and perfect for making more vanilla sugar!

Ways to Use Vanilla Sugar ☕

This versatile sweetener adds a touch of luxury to just about anything. Try it in:

• Coffee, tea, or hot chocolate
• Baking cookies, cakes, or muffins
• Whipped cream or custards
• Sprinkled on pancakes, French toast, or fruit
• Homemade body scrubs for a natural fragrance boost

For an extra treat, pair your vanilla sugar with True Ceylon Cinnamon to create a warm, spiced blend  perfect for autumn baking.

Storage Tips 🏺

Keep your vanilla sugar in an airtight jar, away from moisture and direct sunlight. It will stay fresh for up to 12 months.
You can top it up with more sugar as you use it  just give it a shake and let it infuse again.

Tropical Vanilla Tip 🌸

If you prefer not to wait, explore our ready-made Vanilla Bean Sugar  handcrafted with premium beans and pure sugar, ready to use instantly.

✨ Shop our vanilla collection today and discover how a touch of real vanilla can turn everyday recipes into something truly special.