master-cooks | How To Make Lemon Extract With Just 2 Ingredients

Making lemon extract at home is a simple process that requires just two ingredients: lemons and vodka. Begin by thoroughly washing the lemons to remove any dirt or residues. Use a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife to peel the lemons, making sure to avoid the white pith beneath the skin, as it can impart a bitter taste. Once you have collected the peels, place them into a clean glass jar. Next, pour vodka over the lemon peels, ensuring they are completely submerged. The choice of vodka can vary, but a mid-range option typically works well, as it provides a neutral base that allows the lemon flavor to shine. Seal the jar tightly with a lid and store it in a cool, dark place. Allow the mixture to steep for at least four to six weeks, shaking the jar gently every few days to help release the oils from the peels into the vodka. After the steeping period, strain the liquid through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the peels, resulting in a clear, fragrant lemon extract. Transfer the extract to a clean bottle or jar for storage. This homemade extract can be used in baking, cooking, or cocktails, adding a bright, citrusy flavor to your creations.

Leveraging your lemons for extract

To create lemon extract, you'll need approximately five lemons for each cup of vodka. You can choose between Meyer lemons or regular lemons, but be sure to wash them thoroughly and scrub off any waxy residue from the grocery store if necessary. Use a grater, preferably a microplane if available, to zest the entire lemon. Alternatively, you can peel the lemons with a knife or vegetable peeler, but make sure to avoid the white pith to prevent bitterness.

Your vodka should have a minimum proof of 80 (or 40% alcohol by volume). You might be curious if other spirits can be used, and the answer is yes. (In fact, some vanilla extracts are made with a bourbon whiskey base.) However, keep in mind that other liquors may have strong flavors that could conflict with the lemon or whatever you're making with the extract, while vodka has a neutral taste that allows the lemon's essence to shine through.

Prepare a clean and sterile jar for storage, then mix the vodka with the lemon zest or peel and store it in a cool, dark location. The most challenging part is what comes next — the waiting. Four weeks is a good starting point, but longer infusions will enhance the lemon flavor; some recommend infusing for up to eight weeks. In the meantime, you can begin planning your various lemony creations.

How To Make Lemon Extract With Just 2 Ingredients

Leveraging your lemons for extract

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