Vanilla Essence

Vanilla essence is a concentrated vanilla-flavoured liquid used to add vanilla taste to baked goods, creams, and desserts. Unlike pure vanilla extract made from alcohol-soaked vanilla pods, vanilla essence is often artificially flavoured or produced from vanillin, a synthetic compound that mimics the main aromatic component of real vanilla. It is sold in small bottles and just a few drops are enough for most recipes. It is widely used in Czech baking for its practicality and affordability. Always check the label to know whether you are buying a natural or artificial flavouring.