How Long Does Vanilla Bean Paste Last?

Vanilla bean paste is a delicious and convenient way to add intense vanilla flavor to baked goods, beverages, and more. But how long does opened vanilla bean paste last before it goes bad? Here’s what you need to know about properly storing and maximizing the shelf life of vanilla bean paste.

What is Vanilla Bean Paste?

Vanilla bean paste is a thick, concentrated vanilla product that contains vanilla bean specks throughout. It’s made by combining extract from vanilla beans with vanilla bean seeds and a syrup or sugar base. The result is an ultra-concentrated vanilla flavor with a texture similar to molasses.

Vanilla bean paste offers the convenience of vanilla extract with the visual appeal and intense flavor of whole vanilla beans. It provides a deep, nuanced vanilla taste and aroma that surpasses what you can achieve with extract alone. The tiny vanilla bean specks distribute vanilla flavor evenly throughout batters and frostings.

How is Vanilla Bean Paste Made?

Authentic vanilla bean paste starts with high-quality vanilla beans that are cured dried and ground into a powder. The powder is blended with vanilla extract and a thick syrup made of sugar and water to form a smooth, spoonable paste. Vanilla bean seeds are folded in to provide flecks of real vanilla throughout.

Cheaper imitation vanilla bean paste contains artificial vanillin rather than real vanilla. Always check the ingredients list for additives and “natural flavors” rather than real vanilla. The best vanilla bean paste contains only vanilla beans, extract, sugar, and water.

How Long Does Vanilla Bean Paste Last?

When stored properly, vanilla bean paste will maintain peak flavor and aroma for up to 3 years past the printed expiration date. Once opened, vanilla bean paste will last for 1-2 years if kept in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.

The shelf life of vanilla paste depends on the best by date, storage conditions, and how frequently you open the container. Heat, light, moisture, and oxygen are enemies of vanilla paste freshness. Follow proper storage guidelines and vanilla paste can last for years without deteriorating.

How to Store Vanilla Bean Paste

Follow these tips to extend the shelf life of vanilla bean paste

• Keep unused vanilla paste in the original container with the lid tightly sealed. Transferring to another airtight container is also fine.

• Store in a cool, dark cupboard away from heat sources like the oven or stove. The ideal temperature range is 60°F to 80°F.

• Do not refrigerate or freeze vanilla paste. Cold temperatures and moisture can cause condensation inside the jar.

• Keep vanilla paste away from direct light, which can degrade vanilla’s delicate flavors.

• After opening, press plastic wrap directly on the surface before sealing the lid to prevent oxygen exposure.

• Use a clean, dry utensil each time you scoop out vanilla paste to prevent bacteria buildup.

• Write the date opened on the jar and use within 1-2 years past that date for best quality.

How to Tell if Vanilla Bean Paste Has Gone Bad

Watch for these signs that your vanilla bean paste may be past its prime:

• Change in texture – Fresh vanilla paste has a smooth, spoonable consistency. Separation, clumping, dryness, or very thin texture indicates spoilage.

• Dull or faded color – Good vanilla paste retains a rich, dark brown color. Pale brown or gray paste is oxidized.

• Lack of vanilla aroma – Vanilla paste loses its signature sweet, spicy vanilla scent as it ages. Little to no smell means it’s gone bad.

• Mold growth – Tiny spots of blue, green, or white mold are a definite sign to toss the vanilla paste.

• Alcohol odor – A strong chemical or alcohol smell means the vanilla extract has deteriorated. Toss it.

If your vanilla bean paste exhibits any of these qualities, it’s best to throw it out and start fresh.

Uses for Vanilla Bean Paste

The seeds and intense vanilla flavor make vanilla bean paste ideal for:

• Cakes, cupcakes, cookies, bars – Add to batter or fold into frosting

• Puddings, custards, ice cream – Stir into mixture before chilling

• Coffee, oatmeal, yogurt, cereal – Swirl into your favorite breakfast foods

• Milkshakes, smoothies – Blend with ice cream and milk

• Whipped cream – Fold in for vanilla speckled topping

• Sauces, marinades, dressings – Whisk in anywhere you want deep vanilla flavor

Vanilla Bean Paste Recipes

If you’re looking for recipe inspiration, try these delicious ways to use up vanilla bean paste:

• Vanilla Bean Paste Brownies – Fudgy, ultra moist chocolate brownies

• Vanilla Bean Paste Sugar Cookies – Chewy vanilla-flecked sugar cookies

• Vanilla Bean Paste Buttercream – Fluffy vanilla frosting for cakes and cupcakes

• Vanilla Bean Paste Milkshake – Rich, creamy vanilla milkshake

Bottom Line

With proper storage and use, a jar of vanilla bean paste can last 1-3 years past its printed expiration date. For best results, keep vanilla paste in an airtight container in a cool, dark cupboard. Refrigeration can cause condensation and spoilage. Write the opened date on the jar and use within 1-2 years for optimal freshness and flavor. Check for changes in color, texture, and aroma to determine if your vanilla bean paste has expired.