Homemade vanilla/cinnamon/orange/lemon extracts

npsmama

Probably most of you know how to make vanilla extract (split open vanilla pods and steep them in a bottle of vodka for several months, shaking it regularly)

But I discovered with great joy that using the same method you can make cinnamon extract!

Slightly different method for the orange or lemon extracts:

For Lemon Extract

Finely dice 2TB lemon peel (make sure there is abxolutely no pith or it will be horribly bitter) and add to 1/2 cup vodka and 1/4 cup water.


For Orange Extract
Finely dice 1.5 TB orange peel (make sure there is abxolutely no pith or it will be horribly bitter) and add to 1/2 cup vodka and 1/4 cup water.

I've not tried the orange or lemon yet.
I would imagine it's very worthwhile using organic lemons and oranges as they have a much stronger and less 'plastic' flavour.

Yay! More fun in the kitchen mixing potions!! :j My local Aldi store is going to think I'm a drunk buying all that vodka!!:p

[Deleted User]

I have never made vanilla extract. Thank you npsmama, I am going to make it today

vl2588

Could (unspiced) gin be substituted for the vodka?

katieowl_2

vl2588 wrote: »

Could (unspiced) gin be substituted for the vodka?

I think you'd get too much of the gin flavour coming through...brandy maybe better if you don't want vodka. I think vodka is used as it has less flavour than anything else.

Kate

vl2588

Just being MSE as have some gin whereas would have to buy the vodka!

catch_me_if_you_can

vl2588 wrote: »

Just being MSE as have some gin whereas would have to buy the vodka!

put some of the aforementioned Gin in a glass, add some tonic, ice and lemon and ponder other substitutes

taxsaver

vl2588 wrote: »

Just being MSE as have some gin whereas would have to buy the vodka!

Don't worry... if you drink the gin buying the vodka will feel just fine.

vl2588

So true