You may be surprised about what makes French vanilla “French.”
Does it taste different from plain vanilla?
A pastry chef weighs in.
Ciara Kehoe
When confronted with the choice between vanilla or French vanilla ice cream, I always choose French vanilla.
The vanilla option is a bit, well, plain vanilla.
Whats the Difference Between Vanilla and French Vanilla?
Ciara Kehoe
It may surprise you that the difference between vanilla and French vanilla has nothing to do with vanilla beans.
(Though French vanilla has the tell-tale flecks of real vanilla.)
The difference is in the ice cream base.
Ciara Kehoe
But the term is not specific to just ice cream.
Depending on the product, it likely doesnt mean it contains egg yolks.
It means that the flavor isnt just plain vanilla, but rich, caramelly, creamy, vanilla-flavored.
Where Does Vanilla Really Come From?
It’s rich and warm with woody notes.
Tahiti: a lighter, fruity, and floral aroma.
Tahitian vanilla has less of the flavor compound vanillin than the other varieties.
Mexico: the birthplace of vanilla.
It’s bold, spicy, powerful, and smoky.
How French Vanilla Becomes French
There are two possible reasons French is associated with vanilla.
Thats why so many French desserts, from creme brulee to caneles are flavored with vanilla.
Today, French vanilla technically refers to a stylecustard thickened with egg yolksrather than a true variety of vanilla.
