Food guide
Vanilla
Vanilla, a beloved spice, can be introduced to babies from 6 months as a natural flavor enhancer, allowing you to add a touch of sweetness without resorting to added sugar. It's used for aroma and taste, not nutrition.
How to serve at this age
6-9 months: A tiny drop of pure vanilla extract (preferably alcohol-free) mixed into fruit purees, yogurt, or oatmeal. 9-12 months: A small amount can be added to homemade baked goods, smoothies, or unsweetened applesauce. 12+ months: Used as a flavoring in various dishes, such as muffins, pancakes, or milk, ensuring it’s pure vanilla.
Nutrition
Vanilla extract primarily provides a pleasant aroma and flavor to foods rather than significant nutritional benefits. It helps enhance the natural sweetness of dishes without the need for added sugar, encouraging acceptance of new foods.
A note from the editors
Add a tiny dash of pure vanilla extract to homemade fruit purees or unsweetened yogurt for a natural flavor boost.
Good to know
Always use pure vanilla extract, ideally alcohol-free, and avoid vanilla-flavored products that contain added sugars or artificial ingredients. It's for flavor, not nutritional content.
This guide is also published on Avo Parenting. Read the Vanilla guide