How Many Vanilla Beans in an Ounce: Amazing, Extensive Guide

Last Updated on February 6, 2023

Want to know how many vanilla beans are in an ounce? Bear in mind that a seven to nine-inch vanilla bean will weigh about five grams. In addition to that, it will yield around a gram or a half teaspoon of vanillin seeds. 

First off, manufacturers process vanilla beans into vanilla extract. Keep in mind that it is a usual ingredient in baked goods. Moreover, producers make a pure vanilla extract from vanilla beans. On the other hand, an imitation vanilla extract utilizes artificial vanillin flavoring. 

Furthermore, you commonly use whole vanilla seeds or beans in recipes. Though, it can be expensive. In addition to that, these little seeds greatly add texture. Likewise, it provides exceptional flavoring. 

Not only that but also they add to the aesthetic of a light-colored dessert. Additionally, it would help if you used whole vanilla beans to infuse the natural taste into syrups, sugar, and beverages. Remember, vanilla beans have the most intense aroma and taste that you can ever search for. Commonly, it is rich, has a smoky flavor, and is sweet.

How Much Does a Vanilla Bean Weigh? 

A seven to nine-inch vanilla bean will weigh about five grams. Moreover, vanilla beans usually cost $400 a kilo. Though, keep in mind that it still depends on the quality and size of the beans. In addition to that, extract-grade vanilla beans cost more than gourmet-grade. 

Also, bear in mind that vanilla beans are commonly five to seven inches long. Or they could be six to seven inches. 

Various Kinds of Vanilla Beans

If you look up online regarding different vanilla beans, you will discover a large range of vanilla-based products. But, one of the fundamental differences between vanilla beans is where manufacturers produce them. In this regard, the most famous vanilla beans come from Indonesia and Madagascar. However, there are vanilla beans from Mexico, Papua New Guinea, and Uganda.  

Keep in mind that Madagascar vanilla beans are the best vanilla beans. When one thinks of the perfect vanilla bean with a heavenly aroma and taste, it’s Madagascar vanilla beans. For that reason, it is indeed the gold standard of all vanilla beans. 

Also, know that 79 percent of the world’s vanilla fields are in Madagascar. Due to a shortage, the prices increased from 11 dollars per pound in 2011 to 193 dollars by 2016. 

How Many Vanilla Beans Are in a Pound?

Essentially, you can separate or measure the vanilla beans by length. Because of this, it will provide you with a reasonably precise count per pound. 

Moreover, the accurate quantity of vanilla beans you obtain for your orders online by weight can indeed differ considerably. Because of that, you can assume to receive about 120 vanilla beans per pound. In addition to that, the beans should be approximately 7 inches in length. 

However, if vanilla beans are shorter in length, like six inches, you can assume it’s about 150 beans per pound. Also, bear in mind that length is not the only factor to consider regarding bean counts. Remember, each variety is distinct, and factors like origin, grade, and moisture rating represent essential factors. 

Nevertheless, every agricultural product is distinct. That is why you cannot guarantee accurate measurements. With that, it would be best to understand estimates. 

Check Out These Delicious Vanilla Recipes:

• Easy Vanilla Bean Cake Recipes from Scratch
• Amazing Fannie May Vanilla Buttercream Candy Recipe

How Many Vanilla Beans in an Ounce?

Essentially, consider that around 100 to 120 grade ‘A’ beans per pound have 30 percent to 35 percent moisture content. On the contrary, grade ‘B’ vanilla beans are approximately 140 to 160 grade ‘B’ beans per pound. 

Grade A Vanilla Beans 

Grade A vanilla beans are indeed the premium choice. They are oilier, plumper, longer, and have fewer defects than Grade B vanilla beans. In addition to that, they have a greater percentage of moisture. For this reason, you can obtain fewer beans per pound.

10 Madagascar Vanilla Beans Whole Grade A Vanilla Pods for Vanilla Extract and Baking

Grade B Vanilla Beans 

In contrast, Grade B vanilla beans are not as appealing. Likewise, they are not always as plump and long as their Grade A counterparts. The main reason is that these beans have a lower moisture rating. Because of that, you will receive more on a pound-for-pound basis than in the grade-A category. 

Nevertheless, regarding the extraction grade of vanilla beans, they have a big advantage over grade A vanilla beans. The main reason is that the taste is more easily transferrable in cooking. For instance, if you desire to create a homemade vanilla bean extract, opt for Grade B vanilla beans. 

5 Grams

• 5.67 vanilla beans for one ounce 
• 11.25 vanilla beans for two ounces 
• 22.5 vanilla beans for four ounces 
• 45 vanilla beans for eight ounces 
• 90 vanilla beans for sixteen ounces

4 Grams 

• 7.08 vanilla beans for one ounce 
• 14.25 vanilla beans for two ounces 
• 28.5 vanilla beans for four ounces 
• 56.5 vanilla beans for eight ounces 
• 113 vanilla beans for sixteen ounces 

3 Grams

• 9.45 vanilla beans for one ounce 
• 18.75 vanilla beans for two ounces 
• 37.5 vanilla beans for four ounces 
• 75.5 vanilla beans for eight ounces 
• 151 vanilla beans for sixteen ounces

How Do You Cut Vanilla Beans Properly? 

Keep in mind that the flavor and essence of the vanilla are vanillin seeds. Because of this, it is essential to cut the vanillin seeds thinly. In addition to that, you want to make sure you have a plump bean with thin skin. Also, you want plenty of seeds with a bit of moisture.  

So with that, you can do this by lightly squeezing the bean between your fingers. As a result, you can tell how thin or thick the bean is. If you find scraped-out seeds, you can easily take off the skin. 

Moreover, if you observe sugar crystals coming out of the bean, never throw it away the bean. The reason is that they are pure vanillin crystals. Also, make sure to always keep your finger a half-inch behind the knife. And if the bean is hard, you can soak it in liquid till soft. 

Furthermore, ensure the vanilla bean you purchased is pliable. Then, make sure to slice the beans in half. After that, split each half down the middle using a sharp paring knife. With that, use the knife’s blade to scrape out all of the seeds to use in your recipe. Alternatively, you can replace one vanilla pod in place of a teaspoon of vanilla extract. 

Alcohol to Bean Ratio in Ounces

When making vanilla extract, you need clear alcohol and vanilla beans. You may be wondering what the ratio is when it comes to alcohol and vanilla beans. Let’s take a closer look.

• 1oz of alcohol requires 1 whole vanilla bean (0.1oz)
• 2oz of alcohol requires 1 whole vanilla bean (0.2oz)
• 3oz of alcohol requires 2 whole vanilla beans (0.3oz)
• 4oz of alcohol requires 2 whole vanilla beans (0.4oz)
• 5oz of alcohol requires 3 whole vanilla beans (0.5oz)
• 6oz of alcohol requires 4 whole vanilla beans (0.6oz)
• 7oz of alcohol requires 4 whole vanilla beans (0.7oz)
• 8oz of alcohol requires 5 whole vanilla beans (0.8oz)
• 9oz of alcohol requires 5 whole vanilla beans (0.9oz)
• 10oz of alcohol requires 6 whole vanilla beans (1oz)

How Many Vanilla Beans to Make Extract?

The answer to this question all depends on how many ounces of vanilla extract you’re looking to make. For 8-10oz of alcohol, you’ll need 6 vanilla beans. However, if you have 16oz of alcohol, you’ll need 12 vanilla beans. Follow the guide above to ensure you know how many beans you need for certain amounts of alcohol.

How Much is One Vanilla Bean?

Pure vanilla beans are extremely expensive. You can expect to pay up to $5 for a singular vanilla bean. But the truth is, the price fluctuates all the time, depending on the demand and shortage. One thing’s for sure, pure vanilla beans will set you back a pretty penny!

Cost of Vanilla Extract

The price of vanilla extract is expensive, as it’s made from pure vanilla beans. You can expect it to cost around $1-3 dollars per ounce. However, because you typically only need a very small amount to flavor your baked goods, a small bottle can last a considerable amount of time.

How to Make Your Own Vanilla Extract

You may be wondering how to make your vanilla extract. The truth is, it’s pretty simple and doesn’t require many ingredients at all! The ingredients you’ll need are:

• 5-6 vanilla beans
• 1 cup of alcohol (such as vodka or rum)
• mason jar with a lid

Now all you need to do is:

Step 1: Cut the beans

Cut the vanilla beans open so you can see inside. Use a knife to run down the middle of your beans and chop the beans into small pieces. Add the beans to your mason jar.

Step 2: Shake

Once you’ve chosen your choice of alcohol, pour it on top of your beans and shake well.

Step 3: Store

Keep in a cool, dry place. Be sure to shake at least once a week. And ensure wait at least 8 weeks before using. The longer you leave it, the more intense the vanilla flavor will be.

Step 4: Add fresh beans

If you haven’t opened the jar since making the extract, this vanilla extract will last for years! Add fresh beans, and additional alcohol if you’re not finding the flavor as strong as you’d like.

Conclusion

I hope this post has helped to answer the question: how many vanilla beans are in an ounce? And given you extensive knowledge of all things vanilla beans. Do you have any tips or tricks when it comes to baking with vanilla beans or any additional information on vanilla beans? If so, please feel free to let me know in the comments below. Sharing is caring!