Lemon Extract
Lemon extract adds vibrant citrus flavor to baked goods and desserts, perfect for home bakers seeking natural, flavorful extracts made with fresh lemon peels and vodka.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Use a vegetable peeler to remove peel from lemon in small strips, being careful not to include the white portion.
- In a small saucepan, bring lemon peel and vodka to a boil.
- Remove from heat. Pour into a small glass jar and seal.
- Allow extract to stand at least 2 weeks before using.
Tips & Substitutions
When making lemon extract, it's essential to avoid the white pith of the lemon peel as it can introduce bitterness. For a quicker infusion, consider using a higher proof vodka or letting the mixture steep longer. If you're out of vodka, you can substitute with high-proof grain alcohol. Store unused lemon peels in sugar to create a flavorful lemon sugar for baking.
Serving Suggestions
Use your homemade lemon extract to enhance baked goods, like cakes and cookies, or add a splash to beverages for a refreshing twist. It pairs beautifully with Southern Baked Pork Chops for a zesty marinade. Consider drizzling it over desserts like panna cotta or using it in salad dressings for a burst of flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store the lemon extract in a cool, dark place for optimal flavor. After the two-week steeping period, you can transfer it to a dropper bottle for easier use. This extract does not require refrigeration, but ensure it is tightly sealed to prevent evaporation. It can last for several months if stored properly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemon Extract contains roughly 92 calories, with 1g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of iron (14% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if my lemon extract is ready to use?
Your lemon extract is ready to use when it has developed a strong lemon aroma and flavor, typically after about two weeks. The liquid should be a vibrant yellow and smell citrusy. If it still seems weak, allow it to steep longer, checking for flavor every few days.
Can I use other citrus fruits to make extracts?
Absolutely! You can use oranges, limes, or grapefruits in the same manner as lemons. Just follow the same peeling method and infuse with vodka. Each fruit will impart its unique flavor profile, allowing for a variety of homemade extracts to enhance your culinary creations.
What should I do if my extract has a bitter taste?
If your lemon extract tastes bitter, it may be due to including too much of the white pith during peeling. Unfortunately, there's no way to fix this once it's made, but you can dilute it with more vodka or use it in recipes that require sweetness to balance the bitterness.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).