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Lavender Extract

Lavender extract is a highly concentrated liquid made by steeping fresh or dried lavender flowers in alcohol. The alcohol extracts the essential oils and flavors from the flowers, resulting in a potent extract that can be used in cooking, baking, and skincare. Lavender extract is known for its floral and slightly sweet flavor and aroma, as well as its calming and relaxing properties. It's a popular ingredient in baked goods, beverages, and homemade beauty products. Lavender extract is easy to make at home with just a few simple ingredients and equipment, and can be stored in a dark glass dropper bottle for up to a year.
Course Extracts
Keyword flavorings, lavender, lavender extract
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Infusion Time 7 days
Total Time 7 days

Equipment

  • Glass jar with a tight-fitting lid The size of the jar for making lavender extract will depend on the amount of lavender flowers you're using and how much extract you want to make. However, as a general rule, you should choose a jar that is big enough to hold the flowers with some extra space to allow for the alcohol to cover the flowers completely.For example, if you're using 1 cup of lavender flowers, a jar with a capacity of at least 2 cups would be appropriate. If you're making a larger batch, you may need a bigger jar or multiple jars. Just make sure that the jar you use has a tight-fitting lid and is made of glass to prevent any chemical reactions with the extract.
  • Strainer or cheesecloth
  • Dark glass dropper bottle for storing the finished extract

Ingredients

  • Fresh or dried lavender flowers
  • High-proof alcohol such as vodka rum, or brandy

Instructions

  • Start by cleaning the lavender flowers to remove any dirt or debris. If you're using fresh lavender, make sure to remove any stems.
  • Place the lavender flowers into a glass jar, filling it about 1/3 to 1/2 full.
  • Pour enough alcohol over the lavender flowers to completely cover them. Use a high-proof alcohol such as vodka, rum, or brandy, as it will extract the most flavor and aroma from the lavender.
  • Screw on the lid tightly and shake the jar to combine the ingredients.
  • Store the jar in a cool, dark place for at least a week, shaking it once a day to mix the ingredients.
  • After a week, strain the lavender extract through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth, discarding the flowers.
  • Store the finished lavender extract in a dark glass dropper bottle. It will keep for up to a year if stored in a cool, dark place.

Notes

You can use lavender extract in a variety of ways, such as adding it to baked goods, flavoring drinks, or even using it in homemade beauty products.