Because your brain knows. In a blind taste test, most people cannot tell the difference. But your nose? It’s a detective.
Real extract has that lingering finish. Fake flavoring hits you and then runs away. It’s like a first date who talks only about themselves.
Baking is chemistry. Vanilla extract is like a good stabilizer. It supports chocolate, butter, and cream. Imitation vanilla is a bully. It jumps to the front and shouts, “Look at me!”
For cookies and cakes you want to show off, use the real stuff. For cheap ice cream or a quick milkshake? Flavoring is your sneaky shortcut. No shame.
