Flavorings

Always purchase pure flavoring extracts, not artificial ones. Nowadays, unfortunately, there are mixtures of the two. I like to purchase vanilla extract at a cooking specialty store—it may be a little more expensive, but premium brands of vanilla have the strongest flavor. If you use vanilla beans, make sure they are plump and moist. I like Madagascar Bourbon vanilla extract and beans the best. Other extracts called for in the recipes are almond, anise, lemon, and orange.