What does natural vanilla extract smell like?

What does natural vanilla extract smell like? - Open bottle of aroma oil near dropper on table

I bought a natural vanilla extract, but it had a strong aroma somewhat like spirit or what you get in almond essence? Is that normal? I've only used artificial vanilla so far and they smell really pleasant and warm and wonderful.



Best Answer

"Pure vanilla extract is made by macerating and percolating vanilla beans in a solution of ethyl alcohol and water."

[Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vanilla_extract]

There is alcohol in it, that's why it smells like it has alcohol in it :)

So it is perfectly normal.

Personally, I find extracts and essences of vanilla to be a complete waste. To get that lovely vanilla smell and vanilla taste, add vanilla beans. To combat the relative high cost of vanilla beans, buy in bulk and store correctly, your vanilla beans can last for ages.




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Quick Answer about "What does natural vanilla extract smell like?"

Show activity on this post. "Pure vanilla extract is made by macerating and percolating vanilla beans in a solution of ethyl alcohol and water." There is alcohol in it, that's why it smells like it has alcohol in it :) So it is perfectly normal.

What is vanilla extract supposed to smell like?

Remember, the number 1 ingredient in vanilla extract is alcohol. #2 is vanilla beans. You will always smell some alcohol in your extract. However, the smell of a finished extract is usually vanilla first and spirit second.

Is pure vanilla extract supposed to smell like alcohol?

We sell only pure vanilla here at the Vanilla Company, and we also buy our beans in small quantity, so it shouldn't be surprising that the smell of alcohol accompanies our extracts.

What does raw vanilla smell like?

Raw Vanilla Fragrance Odor and SensationFragrance OdorSensationaromaticsensualgreennaturalsweetfreshfloralwarm6 more rows

How do you know if vanilla extract is real?

To be labeled Pure Vanilla Extract, a gallon measure must contain 13.35% vanilla bean extractives (10-ounces of moisture-free solids), 35% alcohol, and the balance in distilled water. What is not listed in the Standard of Identity is sugar, corn syrup, caramel color or any other additives pure vanilla may contain.



Why does my vanilla extract smell like alcohol?




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Images: Anete Lusina, Pixabay, Rachel Claire, Tara Winstead