How to Make or Find Vanilla Sugar

Many recipes call for "1 Päckchen Vanillezucker", or one packet vanilla sugar. This is the more common form of vanilla in Europe, but can be hard to find in the US. Good news, though--you can make your own! One packet is about a tablespoon of sugar.

1. Buy whole vanilla pods (Penzey's is a good source)
2. Use them for a recipe, such as crème brûlée. 
3. This is done by splitting the pod in half with a sharp knife, then using the knife to scrape the tiny beans out of the pod and adding them to the custard creme.
4. Save the pods!
5. Place the empty pods in a sealed container of 2-3 cups sugar. 
6. Allow to sit for one week and you will have vanilla-scented sugar. 
7. You can leave the pods in the sugar indefinitely, and keep refilling the sugar. They will flavor your sugar for a long time.

If you want to purchase the packets of vanilla sugar, they can be found on Amazon or in upscale grocery stores. Penzey's also sells jars of vanilla sugar.

You can also use liquid vanilla extract in some recipes, but use your judgement and only put them in recipes where they won't significantly change the texture or color of the dough. For instance, for meringues, vanilla will tint them brown.