Who doesn't have vanilla extract in their pantry right now? If not the extract, then maybe vanilla paste or whole vanilla beans. But what about those other flavorings you see on the grocery shelves? Read on for six additional extracts we like to have on hand for making desserts. More

Q: I received a great set of nice vanillas, a Mexican, Tahitian and Madagascar, for Christmas and I'm thrilled! Now I'm wondering what recipes I could try out that would really highlight the vanilla. I'm looking for something more than your basic cookie recipe with a teaspoon of vanilla. More

Q: I recently stumbled upon vanilla paste at my local spice store and was startled but intrigued. What can I make with this new ingredient?

Sent by Dani More

Orange liqueurs like Cointreau and Grand Marnier have got it going on. Blend a shot or two into a top-shelf margarita and then add a few tablespoons to cake batter for an orange-y warmth. A bottle of orange liqueur in your cupboard is like liquid gold. What's your favorite brand? More

If you bake much, you know that vanilla extract can disappear pretty quickly around the kitchen. You use it in cakes, cookies, morning pastries, and even ice cream. So now instead of rushing out to the store mid-recipe, we're determined to start making our very own. More

Each of us probably has a memory of the first time we smelled vanilla. Twisting off the tiny cap, leaning in for a sniff, and inhaling that heavenly aroma. It's a smell associated with birthday cakes, cookies, and all things delicious, and little did we know how that moment would be the start of a beautiful relationship. What kind of vanilla do you have in your cupboard? More

When it comes to baking with vanilla, there are choices: pure vanilla extract, vanilla paste, and vanilla beans. There's also vanilla sugar and infused vanilla syrups; the list goes on and on. So how best to wade through the choices? More

Q: I just got a great deal on 1/2 pound of vanilla beans! Now that this culinary loveliness is headed my way, what is the best way to store them?

Sent by Amy More

Q: I'm hosting an birthday office event next Monday for a group of 60 to 70 people. The plan is to buy boxed coffee from a chain store but I also want to buy 3 or 4 Torani flavored syrups. I went to their website and I'm totally overwhelmed by the choices.

What are good flavors to buy for a large group (we already have hazel cream at work)? Also, any other recommendations for using the syrup other than mixing it with the coffee?

Sent by Giam More

When Emma posted her family's amazing peppermint cookie recipe last week, she lamented that it's getting difficult to find soft peppermint sticks these days. As a fan of this delicious holiday sweet, I felt her pain.

That is, until I wandered in the internets and discovered that an old favorite, King Leo Soft Peppermint Stick Candy, can still be found. Oh, joy! More