Indulge your sweet tooth with these 20 decadent vanilla bean recipes that will satisfy any craving. From classic desserts to creative twists, vanilla’s creamy sweetness is the perfect base for a wide range of treats. Whether you’re in the mood for something rich and creamy, light and airy, or crunchy and buttery, there’s a vanilla bean recipe here to delight.
In this collection, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the world of vanilla bean delights. From velvety crème brûlée to creamy panna cotta, cheesecake to custard tart, and even ice cream and scones, these recipes showcase the versatility and allure of this beloved ingredient.
So grab your mixing bowls and baking sheets, and get ready to treat yourself to a world of sweet indulgence.
Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée
A rich and creamy dessert that’s sure to impress, this Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée is a classic French dessert with a caramelized sugar crust.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup vanilla bean paste or 1 split vanilla bean
– 4 large egg yolks
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together cream, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract.
3. Add vanilla bean paste or scrape the seeds from the vanilla bean; whisk until combined.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks.
5. Gradually add warm cream mixture to egg yolks, whisking constantly.
6. Pour mixture into 4-6 ramekins or small baking dishes.
7. Place ramekins in a large baking dish and add hot water to come halfway up the sides.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are set.
9. Remove from oven; let cool to room temperature.
10. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Note: Just before serving, sprinkle a thin layer of granulated sugar over the top of each ramekin. Caramelize by using a kitchen torch or placing under broiler for 1-2 minutes.
Homemade Vanilla Bean Ice Cream
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this classic recipe that yields a rich and creamy homemade ice cream infused with the warmth of real vanilla beans. Perfect for hot summer days or as a special treat anytime!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves and mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let steep for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Strain mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container. Discard vanilla bean.
4. Chill mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Churn in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling and freezing time)
Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta with Berry Compote
Elevate your dessert game with this creamy panna cotta infused with the warmth of vanilla beans, paired with a sweet and tangy berry compote.
Ingredients:
For the Panna Cotta:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp kosher salt
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
– 1/4 cup unflavored gelatin
For the Berry Compote:
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 2 tbsp granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp Grand Marnier or other orange-flavored liqueur (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over 1/4 cup cold water and let it bloom for 5 minutes.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves and mixture simmers.
3. Remove from heat and add vanilla bean. Let it steep for 10-15 minutes.
4. Strain the mixture into a clean bowl, discarding vanilla bean.
5. Add bloomed gelatin to the mixture and whisk until dissolved.
6. Pour into individual serving cups or a large baking dish. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
7. For the compote, combine berries, sugar, and Grand Marnier (if using) in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until berries release their juices and mixture simmers. Let it cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (plus refrigeration time)
Vanilla Bean Cheesecake with Shortbread Crust
A classic cheesecake recipe gets a boost from the warm, comforting flavor of vanilla bean, paired with a crumbly shortbread crust.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
For the cheesecake:
– 12 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla bean paste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add butter; use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until crumbly.
3. Press the crust mixture into a 9-inch springform pan.
4. Prepare the cheesecake: Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Gradually add sugar and vanilla extract; beat until combined.
5. Pour batter over the crust.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set and center is just slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool completely before refrigerating overnight.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Vanilla Bean Custard Tart
A classic dessert that showcases the rich flavors of vanilla and a flaky pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or 1/4 teaspoon vanilla beans
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt. Add butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into the dry ingredients until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Press dough into a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom. Trim edges and prick bottom with a fork.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, egg yolks, vanilla extract, and vanilla bean paste. Pour filling into the prepared tart crust.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
6. Allow to cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Vanilla Bean Macarons with Lavender Filling
Elevate your dessert game with these delicate French macarons, infused with the subtle sweetness of vanilla and the soothing charm of lavender.
Ingredients:
For the shells:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) almond flour
– 1 cup (200g) powdered sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the filling:
– 1 cup (200g) confectioners’ sugar
– 2 tablespoons dried lavender buds
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, sift together almond flour and powdered sugar.
3. In a large bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gradually add sifted almond flour mixture, beating until smooth.
4. Transfer batter to a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Pipe small circles onto prepared baking sheet.
5. Tap the baking sheet gently to remove air bubbles.
6. Allow shells to dry at room temperature for 30 minutes. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until firm and lightly golden.
7. Allow shells to cool completely on wire rack.
8. For filling, grind lavender buds in a spice grinder or mortar until finely ground. In a small bowl, mix confectioners’ sugar, butter, and vanilla extract. Add ground lavender and stir until combined.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes for macaron shells
Vanilla Bean Bread Pudding with Bourbon Sauce
This classic bread pudding recipe gets a luxurious twist with the addition of vanilla bean and a rich bourbon sauce. Perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in, this dessert is sure to please.
Ingredients:
For the bread pudding:
– 4 cups stale white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
For the bourbon sauce:
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine bread, sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Mix until well combined, then let sit for 10 minutes.
4. Pour in heavy cream and mix until the bread is evenly coated.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
6. For the bourbon sauce, combine ingredients in a small saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened.
7. Serve warm bread pudding with warm bourbon sauce drizzled on top.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Vanilla Bean Scones with Clotted Cream
Start your day off right with these tender, buttery scones infused with the sweet flavor of vanilla bean and served with a dollop of creamy clotted cream.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
– Clotted cream for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, egg, and vanilla bean.
5. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until a shaggy dough forms.
6. Turn dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead a few times until it comes together.
7. Pat into a circle about 1 inch thick.
8. Cut into wedges and place on prepared baking sheet.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vanilla Bean Flan with Caramel Drizzle
This creamy vanilla bean flan is a traditional Spanish dessert, elevated by the rich and velvety caramel drizzle. With only a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create this stunning dessert that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh berries for garnish, optional
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together cream, milk, sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks until smooth.
4. Add vanilla extract to the egg yolks and whisk until combined.
5. Pour the cream mixture into 6-8 ramekins or small cups.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are set.
7. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
8. Drizzle caramel sauce over the cooled flan.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vanilla Bean Cupcakes with Marshmallow Frosting
Sweet Vanilla Bean Cupcakes with Marshmallow Frosting Recipe
These moist and fluffy vanilla bean cupcakes are elevated to new heights with a light and airy marshmallow frosting. Perfect for any occasion, these cupcakes are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– Marshmallow Frosting (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in vanilla extract.
4. With the mixer on low speed, gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients in three parts, alternating with milk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Beat just until combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Marshmallow Frosting:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 2 cups marshmallows
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, beat powdered sugar and butter until smooth.
2. Add marshmallows and beat until well combined.
3. Use immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Vanilla Bean French Toast with Maple Syrup
Start your day off right with this sweet and indulgent breakfast treat. The combination of vanilla bean-infused bread, crispy edges, and rich maple syrup is a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (preferably challah or brioche)
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
2. Dip each slice of bread into the mixture, coating both sides evenly.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook the bread slices for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
4. Repeat with remaining bread slices.
5. Serve warm French toast with melted butter and drizzle with maple syrup to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 12-15 minutes
Vanilla Bean Pots de Crème
A classic French dessert, Vanilla Bean Pots de Crème is a rich and creamy delight that’s sure to impress. This simple recipe yields a smooth and velvety custard infused with the sweetness of vanilla beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar has dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
4. Add split vanilla bean to the mixture and let it steep for at least 30 minutes, or overnight in the refrigerator.
5. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl, discarding the vanilla bean.
6. Pour the mixture into small individual serving cups or ramekins.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vanilla Bean Churros with Chocolate Dip
These classic Spanish treats are elevated by the addition of vanilla bean-infused dough, crispy fried to perfection, and served with a rich chocolate dip for dipping.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate (at least 60% cocoa) for dipping
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and vanilla bean.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until smooth.
5. Pipe dough through a star tip into long strips.
6. Fry churros for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve warm with chocolate dip.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes (including frying time)
Vanilla Bean Affogato with Espresso
Experience the perfect combination of creamy vanilla and bold espresso in this simple yet decadent dessert. This Italian-inspired treat is a cinch to prepare and will satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint of high-quality vanilla ice cream
– 1/2 cup of strong espresso or strong brewed coffee
– 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
– Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Scoop the vanilla ice cream into individual serving bowls.
2. Split the vanilla bean along its length and scrape out the seeds with a spoon.
3. Place one or two teaspoons of the vanilla bean seeds on top of each scoop of ice cream.
4. Pour 1-2 tablespoons of espresso over the ice cream and vanilla bean seeds.
5. Serve immediately, garnishing with whipped cream and chocolate shavings if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This dessert is ready in just a few minutes.
Vanilla Bean Madeleines with Lemon Glaze
These delicate, shell-shaped cakes are infused with the warmth of vanilla and a hint of citrus, making them perfect for any occasion. A light and airy texture, paired with a tangy lemon glaze, will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (60g) granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
– Lemon glaze (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter and flour a madeleine pan.
2. Whisk together eggs, sugar, and salt. Add vanilla extract and whisk until combined.
3. Gradually add milk, whisking until smooth.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are golden brown.
5. Allow to cool in pan before transferring to a wire rack.
Lemon Glaze:
– 1 cup (200g) powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Whisk together until smooth. Drizzle over cooled madeleines and serve dusted with confectioners’ sugar.
Vanilla Bean Tiramisu with Mascarpone
A creamy and decadent Italian dessert, this Vanilla Bean Tiramisu with Mascarpone is a must-try for coffee lovers and sweet tooths alike. Layers of ladyfingers soaked in espresso and liqueur are separated by a rich mascarpone cream infused with the warm flavor of vanilla beans.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– 1 cup strong brewed espresso
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine espresso, cocoa powder, and sugar. Stir until sugar is dissolved.
2. Dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture for about 3-5 seconds on each side. They should be soft and pliable but not too wet.
3. In a separate bowl, whip mascarpone cheese and heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Add vanilla extract and confectioners’ sugar; mix until combined.
4. To assemble, start with a layer of ladyfingers in the bottom of a serving dish. Top with half of the mascarpone mixture, then repeat.
5. Dust the top with confectioners’ sugar and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: None
Vanilla Bean Pancakes with Whipped Butter
Start your day off right with these fluffy and flavorful pancakes infused with the sweet essence of vanilla beans, paired with a dollop of whipped butter for added richness.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
– Whipped butter (recipe below)
Pancake Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and vanilla bean seeds until smooth.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
Whipped Butter:
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon heavy cream
Whisk together until stiff peaks form. Serve whipped butter on top of pancakes.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes for 8-10 pancakes.
Vanilla Bean Mousse with Fresh Berries
A light and airy mousse infused with the warmth of vanilla bean, paired with the sweetness of fresh berries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
– Fresh berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and add vanilla extract. Let steep for 10 minutes to allow the vanilla bean flavors to infuse into the mixture.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl, discarding the vanilla bean.
4. Whip the mixture with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
5. Spoon the mousse into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Top with fresh berries and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Vanilla Bean Blondies with White Chocolate Chips
Elevate your baking game with these soft, chewy blondies infused with the warmth of vanilla bean and the creaminess of white chocolate chips.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Whisk until smooth.
4. Stir in white chocolate chips.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely before cutting into squares.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vanilla Bean Shortbread Cookies
These buttery shortbread cookies infused with the sweet and creamy essence of vanilla beans are perfect for a simple yet elegant treat. With only a few ingredients, you can create a delicious cookie that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Stir in salt and vanilla bean seeds.
5. Roll out dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each cookie.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Summary
Indulge your sweet tooth with these 20 decadent vanilla bean recipes. From creamy desserts like crème brûlée and panna cotta, to classic treats like cheesecake and custard tart, these mouthwatering dishes are sure to satisfy any vanilla lover. With a range of flavors and textures, including ice cream, macarons, bread pudding, and more, there’s something for everyone in this collection. Whether you’re looking for a special dessert to impress guests or just want to treat yourself, these recipes are the perfect way to showcase the rich flavor of vanilla bean.