Homemade Almond Extract is super easy to make at home and only requires 2 ingredients. Vodka and Raw Almonds.
Almond Extract is probably my favorite extract. I think I like it most because of its smell. It's really good to flavor frostings with, put in fresh cherry pie, make homemade cookies, the sky is the limit. My grandma's frosting recipe is the best and it calls for almond extract instead of vanilla.
Post Update 5/31/20
My extracts have been sitting in their jars for over two weeks now. I made lemon, almond, and mint. The ingredients in the extract need to rest in their jars or containers for over 6 weeks. After 2 weeks the almond extract is really starting to smell like homemade almond extract and so is the lemon extract.
The mint extract isn't doing so well. I'm still going to let it sit for the recommended time and then test the extract with my grandma's frosting recipe that calls for almond extract. That will be the true test!
How to Make Homemade Extracts
Find a storage container:
I went to Michaels and found some jars. A smaller sized jar will work (8oz or less) or any type of bottle used to store extracts in. If you are looking for real extract bottles Amazon has them.
Use Good Vodka
The best type of vodka to use for homemade extracts is good strong vodka, 80% proof, or higher. The brand I used was Absolute Vodka.
Extract Flavors:
You can make just about any flavor of extract you want with this method.
Mint, lemon, orange, vanilla, you name it!
Vanilla bean pods are really expensive just for one at the grocery stores. It is best to buy them in bulk online somewhere. Make a slit or indent in the pods and add them to the jars!
10 Vanilla Bean Pods - Whole Extract Grade Be for Baking
For lemon extract or orange, peel off the rinds and make sure to not get any of the white pith on the skin.
Where to find Raw Almonds?
Blanched Skinless almonds work the best for homemade extract. Before I had used almonds with the skin on and that did not work. I was able to find raw blanched almonds in the organic section of my grocery store.
365 Everyday Value, Almonds, Blanched & Slivered, 8 oz
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DIY: Homemade Almond Extract
Ingredients
- 4 oz of slivered almonds (blanched)
- 4 oz. good vodka (80% proof or higher)
- Small Jars or Bottles to store the extracts in
Instructions
- Drop the almonds into the bottom of your jar or bottle.
- Pour the vodka over the almonds and fill it to the top of the bottle. Put the lid on and close tightly.
- Place the vodka and almond mixture in a cool and dark place, like a pantry or garage, and let the mixture sit for 6 weeks.
- Shake the mixture every 3 to 5 days for the entire 2 month period.
Notes
FYI: (5/17/20) This post needs to be updated and I plan on working on that. Please stay tuned for updates!
Jenna says
Thanks for the tip Tyler!
Tyler says
If you aren't using high enough proof vodka, or low quality vodka, it won't flavor well. as an alternative you can use neutral grain spirit (be careful though it's flammable) to concentrate flavors without vodka impurities.
Jenna says
Did you use RAW almonds when you made this? I'm only asking because raw is the only type of almonds that will for this.
Vodka is still good to drink. Up to you to decide if you want to toss it.
Heather says
I forgot mine and it’s been almost a year. I still has a strong vodka smell. Is it good or do I need to start over?
Reda says
I forgot mine for a year. I strained them this morning and they smell highly of the vodka even after a year. Is this normal or did I leave it too long?
Susi says
Bring a pot of water to a boil, throw your almonds in and let the almonds sit in the boiling water for one minute. Strain into a colander then peel the almonds with your fingers. Watch out, the almonds want to shoot across the room when you peel 'em!
★★★★
Patti says
I would think and will try Hot tap water to soak skins Off. I promise to try this And report back. Now where will I find thatcolored bottle?
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Jenna says
If you can't find skinless almonds just use regular almonds. The extract will not be clear though.
Paula says
How did you peal the almonds . It says skinless almonds. Could not find them.
April says
I've got some almonds extract that's been sitting 5 months. And it STILL doesn't taste like almonds. It only has that strong vodka taste. But the almond extract that I bought has a distinct almond smell and taste. What am I missing.