Discover the differences between two popular vanilla species and which is best for your homemade extract.
🌱 What’s the Difference Between V. tahitensis and V. planifolia?
When it comes to making homemade vanilla extract, not all beans are created equal. The two most popular vanilla species used in extract making are:
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Vanilla planifolia – also known as Bourbon or Madagascar vanilla
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Vanilla tahitensis – commonly called Tahitian vanilla
Each offers a unique aroma, flavor profile, and extraction behavior. Choosing the right one can transform your extract from simple to sensational.
🍦 Flavor Profile: Bold vs. Floral
V. planifolia – Classic & Creamy
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Origin: Madagascar, Uganda, Indonesia, Mexico, and more
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Flavor: Rich, creamy, buttery, and warm with caramel and cocoa notes
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Use Case: Best for baking, ice cream, cookies, and traditional extracts
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Extract Type: Produces bold, classic vanilla flavor most Americans recognize
V. tahitensis – Floral & Fruity
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Origin: Tahiti, Papua New Guinea, Indonesia (Sentani, Salatiga)
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Flavor: Floral, fruity, with hints of cherry, anise, and spice
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Use Case: Ideal for desserts, whipped cream, custards, and perfume applications
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Extract Type: Lighter, more aromatic extract perfect for gourmet use
🧪 Extraction Behavior
Planifolia beans tend to have higher vanillin content, making them faster and stronger extractors. They’re robust and forgiving—ideal for first-time extract makers.
Tahitensis beans are lower in vanillin, but high in heliotropin and aromatic esters, which require longer steep times and pair beautifully with floral or tropical spirits like white rum or cognac.
🥃 Best Spirit Pairings
| Bean Type | Top Spirit Pairings |
|---|---|
| V. planifolia | Vodka, Bourbon, Dark Rum, Spiced Rum |
| V. tahitensis | White Rum, Cognac, Tequila, Irish Whiskey |
For a deeper dive, try our Vanilla & Spirit Pairing Quiz to get custom recommendations.
🛒 Shop Recommended Vanilla Beans
At VanillaPura, we offer a wide selection of Grade A V. planifolia and V. tahitensis beans, sourced from trusted co-ops and small farms:
💡 Final Tips for Choosing the Right Bean
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Want classic vanilla flavor? Start with V. planifolia (like Madagascar or Ugandan).
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Want a gourmet, nuanced twist? Try V. tahitensis for its floral complexity.
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Mix and match! Some of the best extracts use a blend of both.
🧰 Tools to Help You Decide
✅ Vanilla Extract Calculator
✅ Alcohol Dilution Calculator
✅ Design Your Custom Extract Quiz
