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Homemade Mint Extract Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 60 reviews

This homemade mint extract recipe teaches you how to create a fresh, potent mint extract using just fresh mint leaves and high-proof grain alcohol. Infused over multiple days with a simple strain-and-replace process, this extract offers a vibrant and natural mint flavor perfect for baking, cocktails, or cooking.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients

  • 3 cups fresh mint leaves (packed, divided)
  • 1 to 2 cups high-proof grain alcohol (such as Everclear)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Mint: Rinse the mint stems thoroughly under cool running water to remove any dirt. Transfer the rinsed stems to a salad spinner and spin dry to remove excess water. Lay the mint leaves on a clean kitchen towel and let them air dry while you sterilize your jars.
  2. Prepare Jars: Wash your infusion jars, lids, and any weights you intend to use in hot soapy water. Rinse them well and dry thoroughly to ensure cleanliness.
  3. Muddle and Fill Jars: Remove the mint leaves from the stems. Take 1 packed cup of leaves and crinkle or gently smash them to release their oils, then place these leaves into the prepared jar.
  4. Add Alcohol: Pour the high-proof grain alcohol over the smashed mint leaves, making sure they are completely submerged. Use a Pickle Pebble or similar weight to keep leaves submerged under the liquid for optimal infusion.
  5. Initial Infusion: Seal the jar with its lid and store it in a visible place. Swirl the jar several times daily for the next 2 days to mix the contents and aid extraction.
  6. Strain and Replace Leaves: After 2 days, strain the mint leaves out of the alcohol using a cheesecloth or fine mesh sieve. Discard these leaves. Add fresh mint leaves into the jar, submerge them with the alcohol again using the weight.
  7. Second Infusion: Cover the jar and continue swirling a couple of times daily for an additional 2 to 3 days to further deepen the flavor.
  8. Repeat Strain and Replace: Strain out the used leaves again, replace with fresh mint, and submerge. Repeat the swirling and infusion for at least another 2 days.
  9. Final Strain: After the final infusion period, strain out all mint leaves thoroughly using cheesecloth or a fine mesh sieve to ensure a clear liquid.
  10. Store: Wash and dry an airtight storage container. Transfer the strained mint extract into the container and seal tightly. Store in a cool, dark place for long-term use.

Notes

  • Use high-proof grain alcohol such as Everclear for best extraction results and longer shelf life.
  • Ensure mint leaves are fully submerged to prevent mold growth during infusion.
  • The flavor will intensify with subsequent infusions, so patience is key for a robust extract.
  • Infused extract can be stored for up to 1 year in a cool, dark place.
  • Use fresh mint leaves each time you replace them for the best flavor quality.

Keywords: homemade mint extract, mint extract recipe, DIY mint extract, natural flavor extract, mint infusion

Find it online: https://lucabites.com/homemade-mint-extract-recipe/