Read on to discover several Test Kitchen-approved vanilla substitutes that can take yourdessertfrom good to gourmet bakery-worthy.

can be solved by following Ina Garten’s lead and keeping a constantly-refreshing supply in your pantry.

How is this sorcery possible?

Vanilla subtitutes

Credit:Nelly Cuanalo

(Garten’s has been going for more than 35 years!)

Test Kitchen Tip:Concentration levels may vary, especially among homemade vanilla substitutes.

Vanilla Powder

Vanilla powder is a fine, pale powder made of ground vanilla beans.

vanilla extract substitutes to use in a pinch illustration

Credit:BHG / Xiaojie Liu

But pure maple syrup?

Its rich and sweet flavor makes a decent vanilla bean substitute and a great vanilla extract substitute.

Use as a one-for-one sub for vanilla extract.

Fresh vanilla beans on blue plate

Credit:Nelly Cuanalo

Translation: Use the exact same amount of paste as the amount of extract called for in your recipe.

Alternative Flavoring Extracts

Can you substitute almond extract for vanilla extract?

Use half as much of one of these stronger-flavored extracts to act as a sub for vanilla extract.

Vanilla powder

Credit:Nelly Cuanalo

Maple syrup and honey in measuring spoons

Credit:Nelly Cuanalo

Alternative milk in a measuring cup

Credit:Nelly Cuanalo

Vanilla Bean Paste

Credit:Nelly Cuanalo

Almond extract

Credit:Nelly Cuanalo