🧁 Make It That: The Secret Ingredient to Transform Any Recipe

Ever bite into something and think, “What is that flavor?!” That little spark—that magic—is what we call a “make it that” moment. It’s the one twist, the hidden ingredient, the slight shift that changes a good dish into something unforgettable. And more often than not, that secret ingredient is vanilla.

Let’s explore how vanilla isn’t just a baking staple but a universal enhancer. From dinners to drinks, from sweet to savory, you can make it that with the right kind of vanilla and the right mindset.

Understanding the Idea Behind “Make It That”

What Does “Make It That” Mean?

It’s the moment your food goes from meh to WOW. It’s what separates home-cooked from professional-grade. It’s that single element that creates flavor harmony, depth, and finish. Think of “Make It That” like the food version of a signature fragrance.

How This Trend Is Changing Everyday Cooking

People are becoming more mindful of subtle flavor elevation. Home cooks are looking beyond salt and sugar to create complexity, and vanilla is taking center stage.

When Simplicity Meets Impact

The brilliance of "Make It That" is how small additions bring major transformations. A few drops of extract, a teaspoon of infused oil, or a swipe of vanilla butter—it doesn’t take much.

The Core of “Make It That”: Vanilla as a Game Changer

Why Vanilla Isn’t Just for Desserts

Vanilla is like a mellow bass line in a song—it grounds everything and enhances other ingredients. Use it in sauces, glazes, and even pasta!

Using Vanilla in Savory Dishes

  • Add a touch of vanilla to a balsamic reduction

  • Elevate creamy soups like butternut squash or carrot

  • Mix into pork or chicken marinades for balance

Infusing Vanilla in Drinks, Sauces, and Dressings

  • Vanilla pairs beautifully with citrus, nuts, and herbs

  • Blend into honey mustard dressing or soy glazes

  • Stir into smoothies or coconut-based drinks

Vanilla Varieties and Their Unique Roles

Vanilla Beans

The gold standard. Scraped seeds deliver intense flavor and are perfect for infusions or high-end bakes.

Vanilla Extract

Versatile and budget-friendly. Use in most recipes—from pancakes to pasta sauce.

Vanilla Paste

Ideal for when you want bean specks and flavor but not the hassle of whole pods.

Vanilla Powder

Alcohol-free and shelf-stable. Best in dry rubs or powdered sugar blends.

When to Choose What

  • Beans: custards, creams

  • Extract: daily cooking

  • Paste: visual appeal

  • Powder: dry mixes and spice blends

Make It That in Baking

Elevating Classic Cookies

Add paste or bean to chocolate chip cookies for a warm depth of flavor.

Bringing Depth to Cakes and Cupcakes

Fold vanilla into your frosting or sponge for gourmet results.

Reinventing Banana Bread and Muffins

Use vanilla powder in your dry mix—it blends seamlessly and adds softness.

Make It That in Beverages

Homemade Vanilla Lattes

Use real extract and skip the syrup—better taste and fewer chemicals.

Vanilla Cocktails & Mocktails

Infuse simple syrup with vanilla and add to rum, gin, or lemon spritzers.

Iced Tea with Vanilla Twist

A few drops of extract in black tea with citrus slices = summer in a glass.

Make It That in Everyday Cooking

Savory Glazes and Marinades with Vanilla

Try a maple-vanilla glaze for salmon or pork.

Vanilla as a Balance to Spicy or Acidic Flavors

Vanilla calms heat and acidity, just like adding sugar—but more refined.

Cooking with Vanilla Oils or Vinaigrettes

Great over roasted veggies or as a dressing base.

DIY Vanilla Recipes You Can Try Today

Vanilla Sugar

Store split pods in a jar of sugar for a naturally flavored sweetener.

Vanilla Honey

Mix extract into raw honey—perfect for toast or tea.

Vanilla-Infused Butter

Whip softened butter with vanilla bean and a pinch of salt. Slather it on cornbread or pancakes.

Tips to Get the Most Flavor from Your Vanilla

Storage Hacks

Keep beans in airtight glass containers, away from heat and light.

Steeping and Infusing Tricks

Warm vanilla (don’t boil it!) in cream or milk to maximize extraction.

How Much is Too Much?

Start small—½ tsp can go a long way, especially in savory dishes.

Mistakes to Avoid When Using Vanilla

Overpowering a Dish

Balance is everything. Too much can make your dish overly floral or bitter.

Choosing Low-Quality Vanilla

Artificial vanilla lacks depth and might have chemical aftertastes.

Using Artificial Extracts the Wrong Way

Only use in recipes where it's masked by strong flavors, like chocolate.

The "Make It That" Recipe Challenge

Try Upgrading Your Signature Dish

Add vanilla to your favorite family recipe and see the difference.

Get Your Family to Guess the Difference

Make it fun—tell them to spot the secret twist.

Join the Community Movement with #MakeItThat

Share your upgraded dishes on social using NYVanilla products.

Why NYVanilla Makes the Difference

Sourcing from Premium Growers

NYVanilla works with sustainable farms for rich, authentic flavors.

Wide Range of Pure Vanilla Products

Beans, paste, extract, powder—whatever your dish needs.

Real Customer Reviews & Transformations

People notice the difference—and so will you.

Expert Tips from Chefs and Bakers

What Chefs Say About Vanilla in Savory Dishes

“Vanilla isn’t sweet—it’s soft. It smooths edges and brightens meat dishes.” —Chef Aaron M.

How Bakers Elevate Flavor Using Different Forms

“Vanilla paste gives my bakes a signature look AND flavor.” —Pastry Chef Lila T.

Conclusion

Vanilla isn’t just another pantry staple—it’s the backbone of balanced flavor. When you make it that, you’re not just adding vanilla—you’re layering love, depth, and sophistication into every bite.

So, next time you're stirring a pot or prepping a batter, ask yourself:
“What if I made it that?” The answer might just be a drop of vanilla away.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use vanilla in savory dishes without it tasting like dessert?
Yes! Vanilla enhances savory notes when used sparingly in sauces, glazes, and marinades.

Q2: Is vanilla powder better than extract?
Each has its place. Powder is ideal for dry mixes and alcohol-free dishes; extract is great for everyday use.

Q3: How long do vanilla beans last?
Stored properly, they can last up to two years without losing aroma.

Q4: What’s the best vanilla for coffee?
Pure vanilla extract or a drop of vanilla paste works wonders in lattes and cold brews.

Q5: Where can I buy premium vanilla products?
Check out www.nyvanilla.com for ethically sourced, high-quality vanilla in all forms.

Back to blog
1 3
View all