Introduction

Homemade mint extract is a simple and natural way to add fresh mint flavor to your baking and cooking. This recipe uses fresh mint leaves and high-proof grain alcohol to create a vibrant, aromatic extract. It’s easy to make and lasts for months.

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Ingredients

3 cups mint leaves (packed, divided)
1–2 cups high proof grain alcohol (such as Everclear)

Instructions

Step 1: Rinse the mint stems under cool running water. Transfer them to a salad spinner and spin dry. Then, place the mint on a clean kitchen towel to dry completely while preparing your jars.
Step 2: Wash your infusion jars, lids, and any weights you plan to use in hot soapy water. Rinse them well and dry thoroughly.

Step 3: Pick all the leaves from the stems. Crinkle or gently smash 1 packed cup of mint leaves to release flavor, then add them to a prepared jar.
Step 4: Pour the high proof grain alcohol over the mint leaves, making sure they are fully covered. To keep leaves submerged, use a small weight like a Pickle Pebble if you have one.

Step 5: Cover the jar with the lid and place it somewhere visible. Swirl the jar gently a couple of times each day for the next 2 days to help infuse the flavor.
Step 6: After 2 days, strain the mint leaves out using a cheesecloth or fine mesh sieve. Refill the jar with fresh mint leaves, add the weight if using, and pour the strained alcohol back over the new leaves.
Step 7: Cover and swirl the jar a couple of times daily for another 2–3 days. Repeat the straining and replacing with fresh leaves at least once more to intensify the flavor.

Step 8: After the final infusion period, strain out the mint leaves using a cheesecloth or fine mesh sieve.
Step 9: Wash and thoroughly dry an airtight storage container. Transfer the mint extract into it and seal tightly.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh, vibrant mint leaves for the best flavor. Avoid wilted or yellowing leaves.

If you don’t have Pickle Pebbles, a small clean glass weight or even a folded piece of parchment paper can keep the leaves submerged.
You can use vodka as a lower proof substitute, but the extract may be less intense and take longer to mature.
For a sweeter aroma, add a small strip of lemon zest during the infusion steps.

Storage

Store your homemade mint extract in a tightly sealed glass container in a cool, dark place. It will keep for at least 6 months, often longer. There’s no need to refrigerate. Before using, give the container a gentle shake to mix any settled flavor.

How to Serve

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Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh mint leaves straight from the garden?

Yes! Fresh garden mint is ideal. Just make sure to rinse the leaves well to remove any dirt or insects before starting the infusion.

How strong is homemade mint extract compared to store-bought?

Homemade mint extract made with high proof alcohol is very potent and often more aromatic than commercial extracts, but the strength can vary depending on how many times you refresh the leaves and infusion time.