What makes bourbon a decent substitute for vanilla?
In the accepted answer to this question, it was said that bourbon can make a half-decent substitute for vanilla. I fail to understand how because the primary flavor component is vanillin and as far as i know, there is no vanillin in bourbon.
What characteristics of bourbon are analogous to vanilla? Is the similarity due to the alcohol content of vanilla extracts? Or is there another reason?
Best Answer
Bourbon, by legal definition is aged in a fresh oak barrel. The oak heartwood naturally contains aromatic compounds including (you guessed it) vanillin—the primary flavor component of vanilla itself.
But beyond the already-present aromatics, the wood is further treated to produce even more flavor. About 20% of the oak's mass is made of lignins. When exposed to temperatures of 750° F the lignin breaks down to more aromatics including, once again, vanillin. Your bourbon barrel is charred in an open gas burner for 15—45 seconds, making these flavors ready for extraction into your bourbon. The alcohol will then be able to further break down some of the solid mass and dissolve the aromatics.
So bourbon is a good vanilla substitute because of the relatively high portion of vanillin that it contains
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Is bourbon good for making vanilla extract?
What Kind of Alcohol is Best for Making Vanilla Extract? You can use any alcohol as long as it is 80 proof. The best and most popular choices are vodka, bourbon, brandy, or rum. Vodka is the most versatile because it has a neutral flavor.Is bourbon or vodka better for vanilla extract?
Vodka produces a cleaner and lighter vanilla extract; bourbon produces a heavier, more complex and moodier, if you will, type of extract. Dark rum, light rum, spiced rum, or brandy will all effect the taste of the final extract compared to vodka, which imparts almost none.What is the best substitute for vanilla?
Vanilla Substitutes- Maple Syrup. My go-to substitute for vanilla extract is maple syrup. ...
- Almond Extract. Almond extract is significantly more potent than vanilla, but it will provide a similar flavor profile if you use it sparingly. ...
- Bourbon, Brandy or Rum. ...
- Other Spices. ...
- Instant Coffee or Espresso Powder. ...
- Citrus Zest.
Can you substitute liqueur for vanilla?
Use any dark liquor like bourbon or rum! It adds a subtle complexity to baked goods, making it a worthy substitute for vanilla. We've tested this trick in our Cranberry Bread and it yields great flavor in baking recipes. You can even use it in a Homemade Whipped Cream.How to make Homemade Vanilla Extract | BOURBON | VODKA | RUM
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