How to Use Vanilla Beans: Step-by-Step Guide for Cooking, Baking and More

What Is a Vanilla Bean (or Pod)? 

Vanilla beans—also known as vanilla pods—are the fruit of the vanilla orchid, hand-harvested and cured to develop their signature aroma and flavour. Inside each slender pod are thousands of tiny, fragrant seeds that deliver pure, natural vanilla essence.

How to Prepare a Vanilla Bean

Using a vanilla bean is simple and rewarding. Follow these steps:

  1. Lay the bean flat on a cutting board.
  2. Use a sharp paring knife to slice the bean lengthwise from end to end.
  3. Gently open the pod with your fingers.
  4. Scrape the seeds from the inside using the back of your knife. 

You can use both the seeds and the pod in recipes. The seeds add intense flavour and visual appeal, while the pod can be steeped in liquids for infusions.

How to Use Vanilla Beans in Recipes

  • Baking: Add scraped seeds to cakes, cookies, and custards.
  • Infusing: Steep the whole pod in milk or cream for desserts like panna cotta, crème brûlée, or ice cream.
  • Cooking: Add to syrups, glazes, or fruit compotes.

After using, rinse and dry the pod—it can still be used again!

How to Store Vanilla Beans

  • Keep them in an airtight container (like a glass jar or vacuum-sealed bag)
  • Store in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight
  • Avoid the fridge—it can dry them out

Properly stored, vanilla beans can last 12 to 24 months.

Can You Reuse Vanilla Pods?

Yes! Even after scraping out the seeds, the pod still has flavour:

  • Vanilla sugar: Bury dried pods in a jar of sugar
  • Infusions: Re-steep pods in milk, cream, or even tea