What is a Vanilla Fold

If you’ve read my vanilla extract labels and found yourself wondering what on earth “double fold” means, you're not alone. Let’s break it down so you know what to look for.

What I use to make 50oz of double fold extract

The term “fold” refers to the strength or concentration of vanilla beans used in an extract. According to FDA standards (yes, there are real standards for this!), a Single-Fold (1x) vanilla extract must contain at least 13.35 ounces of vanilla beans per gallon of alcohol and water mixture. Anything more than that? We’re leveling up!

Single Fold (1x) – the minimum

This is the standard you’ll find in most grocery stores and recipes.

• Made with the minimum amount of beans required to legally be called “pure vanilla extract.”

• Balanced, delicious, and perfect for everyday baking and cooking.

• Think: your go-to for cookies, cakes, waffles—you name it.

1.5 Fold – a little extra oomph

Not as common in stores, but found in artisan extracts and DIY batches. This is what I include in my DIY Vanilla Boxes.

• Contains 50% more vanilla beans than a single fold.

• Richer flavor, deeper aroma—like vanilla with its volume turned up to 11.

• Great for people who want to really taste that vanilla in their recipes or homemade ice cream.

Double Fold (2x) – the fancy stuff

Twice the beans = twice the flavor. This is what I sell and use at home as my standard.

• Often used by professional bakers, chocolatiers, and ice cream makers who want the vanilla to stand out even when mixed with bold flavors.

• Ultra-rich, concentrated, and often comes with a higher price tag (because: more beans).

  
  
  
  

Why It Matters (even for home cooks)

Whether you're baking banana bread or infusing honey (I see you, DIY vanilla lovers), knowing your folds helps you get the flavor just right.

• Want a strong vanilla punch in whipped cream or icing? Double fold might be your bestie.

• Making a simple extract to gift or use daily? Stick with single fold.

• Experimenting? Try 1.5 fold and see how it transforms your recipe.

You can also add more or less to a recipe to adjust the flavor. I say never enough, but you can do a little less of the double fold or a little more of a single fold if you want. Or use vanilla paste if to increase flavor without adding too much liquid that may effect your recipe's consistency.

Want to Make Your Own?

Try my DIY Vanilla Box to make is super simple. It has everything you need except the alcohol. Get the box, grab your booze (I'll email and send info in the box to help you choose) and you're set! Do it yourself or make a girls night out of it.

You can also purchase my Vanilla Guide to learn on your own and try a variety of vanilla beans from all over the world through my favorite co-op.