Vanilla (vanilla Planifolia)

Native to Mexico the vanilla bean is not actually a bean at all, it is an orchid. The vanilla pod forms after flowering and contains thousands of highly aromatic and minute flavoursome seeds. The flat-leafed vanilla is a vine that grows extensively through the world’s tropical regions. It is very hard to grow and the plant delivers its treasured fruit, we all love, with a great deal of reluctance.

Despite its tricky nature, vanilla is regarded as the world’s most popular aroma and flavour and is used extensively in many culinary dishes. No ice cream or milk shake menu would be complete without vanilla.

A splash of Vanilla Essence is a great way to sweeten coffee but with the added bonus of that ‘warm floral’ flavour.
Use it as a flavouring in shakes and smoothies either with fruit or just on its own. The light golden syrup can be drizzled over ice cream and other desserts, as a delicious, sweet topping.

Try these delicious hot and cold drinks
* Based on a 250ml serving size

Vanilla Latté

Extract a double espresso shot into a cup or glass and add 25mls of Vanilla Essence. Next, heat your milk of choice. Pour hot milk over the espresso/essence mixture.
*essences can be added to any and all of your coffees from flat whites to plunger or filter brews.

Vanilla Shakes
1. You will need a blender.
2. Take a blender jug and fill it with 250mls of fresh full cream milk.
3. Add 15mls of Vanilla Essence.
4. Complete the recipe with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream.
5. Blend on high for 20 seconds and Enjoy.