Vanilla 101
2 Bean Tuesday: Indonesian Planifolia vs Tahitensis: Understanding the Difference
Discover the key differences between Indonesian Planifolia and Tahitensis vanilla beans, including their distinct flavor profiles, ideal spirits for extract making, and best culinary applications.
10 Valentine's Day Desserts Elevated by Custom DIY Vanilla Extracts
Elevate your Valentine's Day desserts with custom DIY vanilla extracts made from different bean origins and spirits. From Tahitian vanilla-rum crème brûlée to Mexican vanilla-tequila panna cotta, discover 10 romantic desserts that shine with thoughtfully crafted extracts.
Shipping Vanilla Beans in Winter: Why Cold Weather Won't Hurt Your Beans
Worried about ordering vanilla beans in winter? Learn why cold temperatures during shipping won't harm your beans, what to do if they arrive frosted, and the science behind short-term cold exposure vs. long-term refrigeration.
Large Beans vs. Small Beans: Why You Should Always Buy Vanilla by Weight
Are large vanilla beans better than small beans for extract making? Discover why bean size doesn't affect flavor and why you should always buy vanilla by weight, not by count.
Why VanillaPura is the Best Place to Buy Vanilla Beans in 2026
Discover why VanillaPura is the world's #1 destination for vanilla beans in 2026. Industry-leading innovation with blended bean and spice extracts, The Art of Extract Making bestseller for 2+ years, largest variety from global family farms, thousands of 5-star reviews, 140,000+ member community, unmatched content, #1 customer service, and a satisfaction guarantee.
What Should Your Second Extract Be? 10 Ideas to Expand Your Extract Collection
Made your first vanilla extract? Discover 10 thoughtful directions for your second batchβfrom trying the same beans in bourbon to exploring Tahitian vanilla, creating custom blends, or venturing into chocolate, coffee, and fruit extracts.
New Year's Vanilla Desserts That Pair Beautifully with Champagne
Discover the art of pairing vanilla desserts with champagne. From panna cotta to crème brûlée, learn which vanilla-based desserts create sophisticated, celebratory pairings with sparkling wine and why this combination works so beautifully.
Why Christmas Isn't Christmas Without Vanilla Beans in Your Stocking
Discover why premium vanilla beans have become the ultimate Christmas stocking stuffer. From lasting value to luxurious aroma, learn why this thoughtful gift creates memories and inspires delicious traditions long after the holidays end.
5 Desserts Elevated by Vanilla Bean Caviar: The Secret to Show-Stopping Sweets
Discover five classic desserts that reach their full potential with vanilla bean caviar. From crème brûlée to pastry cream, learn why those beautiful black specks make all the difference in flavor, aroma, and presentation.
12 Extracts to Make Every Month: A Year-Round Guide to Homemade Vanilla & Flavored Extracts
Discover how to build a year-round collection of artisanal extractsβfrom double-fold planifolia to creative blends like mocha and raspberry-chocolate. Plus, learn zero-waste techniques to transform used beans into vanilla powder, sugar, paste, and more.
The Health Benefits of Vanilla: More Than Just Flavor
Discover the science-backed health benefits of vanilla beans, vanilla extract, and vanillin oil. From antioxidant properties to mood enhancement, learn how vanilla supports wellness beyond flavor.
The Natural Shield: Antimicrobial Properties of Vanilla Bean Oils
Explore the fascinating antimicrobial properties of vanilla bean oils and how they naturally protect well-cured beans. Learn why oily beans are superior and how proper curing creates nature's perfect preservation system.












