How to Make Your Own Extracts - Easy Steps and Supplies
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Time to read 1 min
If you're not familiar with hobbits, I highly recommend checking out their fictional lifestyle. It's my dream—having a second breakfast, enjoying tea, and eating my own potatoes grown in my garden... count me in! The longing for the hobbit life inspires me to explore some fun new discoveries, like making my own extracts for baking and cooking. YUM! If you're up for trying it with me, here's a bit on how to join in.
20min
Supplies - What you need to make your own extracts
- Almonds, vanilla beans, or oranges (depending on the extract you want to make)
- High-proof alcohol (such as vodka or rum)
- Airtight glass jars or bottles
- A sharp knife and cutting board
- Time and patience!
Directions - easy steps to make extract
Step 1
Decide which extract you want to make. Almond extract adds a rich, nutty flavor to baked goods, while vanilla extract is a classic addition to many recipes. Orange extract brings a bright, citrusy zing to your dishes.
Try them all or just one or something different if you like!
Step 2
For almond extract, chop almonds finely. For vanilla extract, slice vanilla beans lengthwise to expose the seeds. For orange extract, grate the orange peel (avoiding the bitter white pith) or chop the peel into small pieces.
Step 3
Place your chopped almonds, vanilla beans, or orange peel into a clean glass jar or bottle. Pour enough alcohol over them to completely cover the ingredients.
Step 4
Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dark place for at least a few weeks, shaking it gently every few days to help infuse the flavors.
Step 5
After a few weeks, strain the extract through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean jar or bottle. Discard the solids. Your homemade extract is now ready to use!
Enjoy!
Now that you have your own homemade extracts, it's time to get creative in the kitchen! Use your almond extract to flavor cakes, cookies, and pastries. Add a splash of vanilla extract to your morning coffee, or use it in your favorite dessert recipes. And don't forget the orange extract—it's perfect for adding citrus flavor to muffins, scones, and sauces.
Making your own extracts is not only fun and rewarding but also allows you to customize the flavors to suit your taste. Plus, it's a small step towards bringing a bit of the cozy, homemade charm of the hobbit life into your own kitchen.
