What is French Vanilla?

I have always liked mochas, but there is something about the addition of french vanilla that elevates the entire drink to a new level. It is so rich and creamy and decadent, like drinking an entire dessert menu at once.

How difficult is it to grow vanilla beans? Will they only grow in tropical climates?

I recently took a cooking class and one of the things we made was adapted from a French vanilla ice cream cake recipe. I couldn't believe how delicious it was, quite different from similar desserts I've had before.

The teacher was pleased to give us a mini seminar on buying and storing gourmet vanilla beans and pods. I had no idea that there were so many varieties, or that they shouldn't be stored in airtight containers! We also learned about vanilla mold, a consequence of poor storage.

There really is no adequate substitute for making your own custard or vanilla sugar for baking. If you don't believe me try buying a couple of pods at a quality food store and give it a try.

When I was a teenager I read a magazine article about the power of vanilla scent. I was fascinated to learn that this is one of the most evocative smells for humans, and especially impressed by the aphrodisiac aspect.

Being rather keen to snag a boyfriend I borrowed some vanilla essence from my mother's cooking supplies and applied it liberally to my wrists, neck and cleavage.

The mission was unsuccessful, largely because the liquid in this form left unsightly brown stains on my skin. Rather than appearing glamorous and irrestible I looked like someone who needed a good wash!

@Valencia - I'm a major fan too, and I know what you mean about the costs of buying coffee in the shops. I've seen places that add 20% or more to the price just for a shot of flavoring!

I have been making my own for a couple of years now. If you'd like to try, here's my French vanilla syrup recipe.

1. Bring two cups of sugar and two of water to the boil on the stove. I use white sugar but brown would do.

2. After 2 - 4 minutes the misture will get thick. You should turn off the heat when that happens.

3. Now add 2 tablespoons of vanilla extract. It should be pure, not alcohol based.

4. Let it get cool and then store in an airtight container, I use a plastic bottle.

You can add it to hot or cold drinks and it keeps in the fridge for a few weeks.

For a simple French vanilla creamer just mix one can of low fat condensed milk with one and a half cups of non or low fat milk. Add a tablespoon of pure vanilla essence and, as the French would say, voila!

My friend spends a fortune on French vanilla latte coffee. She must buy at least one a day, sometimes two! I like the way it tastes but my funds don't run to buying that many flavored drinks from stores. Is it possible to make your own syrup?