Vanilla-infused sugar makes the perfect Christmas or hostess gift. Just a few minutes and 2 ingredients. In no time you will have a simple, elegant finishing sugar perfect for the holiday baking season! Check out the free printable below to add the perfect finishing touch for gift-giving. Add the topper, pop on a ribbon around the neck of the jar, and you have a quick, easy gift for nearly any occasion!

This free printable is through Cricut Design Space. You can make a free account and print if you don’t have a Cricut to cut and draw the design for you! There is both a regular and wide-mouth option. Also, you can edit the file within the design space if you would like different colors, to add a date, etc. Let me know if there are any issues!

I found my vanilla beans last year at Costco around Christmas time. Some people have reported finding them on Amazon or at Azure Standard as well. I used mine to make homemade vanilla extract and was so impressed with the quality. Last year they were only ten dollars for five beans. If they have the same promotion this year I will definitely be stocking up!

This fall I found myself with three vanilla beans leftover from vanilla extract. The vanilla was amazing, and I already have a second batch going. So, I wanted to find a new way to use them. Vanilla-infused sugar seemed like the perfect option. I love to top banana bread, pies, muffins, and cookies with this unique twist on finishing sugar! It adds such a perfect touch that elevates any baked good. This is the difference between a good recipe and a great recipe. 

Vanilla Infused Sugar Recipe

First things first, I picked out the perfect container: a pint-sized mason jar. This is the perfect size for gift-giving! I use just a plain, clear jar. If you find any fun designs at the thrift store, that would be a great addition. 

Aside from the jar, you will only need five simple things. One whole vanilla bean, a knife, a fork, 2 cups of coarse cane sugar (Turbinado is my favorite), and a mixing bowl.

First, put the two cups of sugar into the mixing bowl. Then, cut lengthwise through one side of the vanilla bean. Take care not to cut completely through the shell. Scrape out the seeds from the inside of the vanilla pod, into the bowl. Next, combine with your hands or the fork, until no clumps of vanilla remain. Then, transfer the vanilla-sugar mixture into the pint jar. Lastly, add in the vanilla bean pod for added flavor infusion and decor. 

I like to let my sugar sit for about a week to fully infuse the flavor, but you can absolutely use it right away! Store your vanilla-infused sugar at room temperature, making sure the container is airtight. This should store as long as your sugar is within the expiration date. 

Print Pin

Vanilla Infused Sugar

Finishing sugar with a hint of vanilla, perfect to top any treat.

Course Dessert

Keyword Dessert, Sugar, Vanilla

Total Time 5 minutes minutes

Servings 1 pint

Cost $5

Equipment

• Bowl
• Knife
• Fork or Spoon
• Pint Jar

Ingredients

• 2 Cups Cane Sugar Turbinado
• 1 Vanilla Bean Pod whole

Instructions

• Slice the vanilla bean pod lengthwise. Do not cut through both sides of the pod.
• Scoop out the vanilla beans with the fork or spoon.
• Combine sugar and vanilla beans in the bowl until throughly mixed.
• Transfer the vanilla sugar mixture into the clean pint jar.
• Add in the vanilla bean pod.
• Attach lid securely and store at room temperature for several months.

To give as a gift, I like to add the free printable below to the top of the jar. Next, add a ribbon! Give alone or with an apron, or part of a kitchen gift basket. Leave a comment down below and tag me on Instagram @makeshifthomestead with how you are using your vanilla-infused sugar this holiday season!