Last Updated: Apr 27, 2023 @ 7:05 pm.

What's the best Mexican vanilla? We tried vanilla extracts and flavorings from Mexico in several recipes. And then we did blind taste tests with vanilla enthusiasts. Here are the ones we liked the best.

FYI: We've been reviewing and rating products for the home and families since 1994. To keep things independent, we don't take money or freebies from brands we review! Our work is 100% reader-supported!


Mexican Vanilla: What Makes it Different?

Let’s talk the best Mexican vanilla!

And how does vanilla from Mexico differ from that grown in other parts of the world?

Yes, there are 140+ types of vanilla, although most of the vanilla sold today comes from three countries: Madagascar, Tahiti and Mexico. 

Wherever it is grown, the process is much the same: after the plant blooms, a vanilla pod is cut from the plant and then dried for a number of days (20 is common). A fermentation and ripening process continues for another two months. 

Just as wine is impacted by the soil and weather where it is grown, so goes vanilla. Mexican vanilla is said to have a somewhat sweeter and spicier flavor compared to Tahitian or Madagascar vanilla.

Tahitian vanilla has a hint of cherry or floral notes. Madagascar vanilla is sweet and smooth, with less spice notes compared to Mexican vanilla.

As part of our series on the best vanilla (extract, beans, paste), we did a good deal of baking and tasting—and we would say Mexican vanilla did better in baked goods when paired with cinnamon and darker chocolate. 

Pure versus extract

FYI: You’ll see both vanilla extract and “pure vanilla” reviewed in this article. What’s the difference? The US Food and Drug Administration says in order for a vanilla extract to be called pure, it must have at least 35% alcohol.

You’ll note that some of the vanilla recommended in this article is alcohol-free—folks are divided on whether this makes baked goods better or worse.

So, let’s get on with the winners. Here are our picks for the best Mexican vanilla:

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Best Clear Vanilla

Excellent for frosting and meringues
This two-bottle pack is a mix of both vanilla and vanillin—and we loved the rich vanilla aroma and flavor. If you want to keep white frostings white, we recommend this. Caveat: additives turn off some folks.
$21.99 ($0.33 / Fl Oz)

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Best Pure Mexican Vanilla

Great for beverages
Rich, smooth flavor is the hallmark of this brand—we liked the simple ingredients (no GMO's) and large size bottle, even if it is a bit on the pricey side.
$25.75 ($0.78 / Fl Oz)

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Best Bulk Mexican Vanilla

Wonderful in baked goods
We loved the delicious aroma and rich flavor of this vanilla, grown in Veracruz, Mexico and packaged in the US. Also great: this vanilla flavoring is low in alcohol (10%). Large gallon size is great for bakeries and schools.
$295.00 ($2.30 / Ounce)

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Best No Alcohol Mexican Vanilla

Spicier than others we tested
We loved the floral scent notes in this vanilla extract that is made without alcohol—that's excellent for vanilla treats that aren't baked (ice cream, beverages, etc.).
$22.99 ($0.70 / Fl Oz)

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Why Trust Us

We’ve been rating and reviewing products for the home and families since 1994. We do hands-on testing—we buy the products with our own money and evaluate with an eye toward quality, ease of use and affordability.

Here’s another key point: we don’t take money from the brands we review. No free samples, no sponsors, no “partnerships.” Our work is 100% reader-supported!

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