Sonoma Syrup Co. Pure Vanilla Extract

I am always in search of really good, high quality ingredients to use in my cooking and baking. I should admit that lately I have become quite obsessed with it; just ask my husband.

While watching the Food Network or Martha, I always try to take note of what they use or suggest. I'm also a regular on the Cook's Illustrated test kitchen website. They test and rate all the best products. It's really addicting.

A "good vanilla" is so crucial for most baking and I have been enjoying Nielsen Massey's Bourbon Pure vanilla extract. I really love it, but still a little too expensive for the amount that I need. A 4 ounce bottle is $8.00!

Recently I came across Dorie Greenspan's blog suggesting the Sonoma Syrup Co. Vanilla Crush. I remembered seeing this brand at TJ Maxx and Marshalls (my faves) so I went out to hunt it down. I found an 8 ounce bottle of Sonoma's pure vanilla extract at Marshalls for just $12.99! The only difference between the crush and the regular is that the crush has little specks of vanilla beans which would be lovely in pastries, pudding, frostings, etc.

I love this stuff and recommend it to anyone who loves to bake. It's the best quality for the best price. You will love it too!