From Tree to Table: Making Your Own Maple Extract

Maple extract is a strong flavoring derived from maple syrup. This extract is crafted by steeping premium maple syrup in a spirit, such as vodka or grain alcohol, for several weeks to extract the maple flavor. It is an excellent substitute for maple syrup in recipes requiring less sweetener. 

Maple extract can elevate the maple essence in dishes already featuring maple syrup. Whether found in specialty food stores or created at home using simple ingredients, maple extract adds a touch of maple sweetness to baked goods, pancakes, waffles, french toast, and cocktails. So, let’s look at how to make it at home!

Choosing the Right Ingredients for Your Homemade Maple Extract

Opt for a high-quality maple syrup when making maple extract for the best flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, consider choosing a lighter syrup, as darker syrups tend to have a more robust flavor. Alternatively, you can also use homemade maple syrup.

To extract the flavor compounds from the maple syrup, vodka or another neutral spirit is used as a solvent. The maple syrup is steeped in alcohol, allowing the alcohol to draw out the flavor compounds and create a concentrated maple extract. To best do this, you will need an alcohol of 80 proof or above, which is roughly 40% ABV.

Step-By-Step Guide to Making Maple Extract at Home

List of Ingredients:

– Equal parts maple syrup and vodka. Example:

– ½ cup of vodka

 – ½ cup of maple syrup

Instructions:

1. Pour the maple syrup and vodka into the mason jar.

2. Securely close the lid and shake vigorously to thoroughly combine the ingredients.

3. Find a cool and dark location to store the jar.

4. Shake the jar vigorously every day.

5. After 2 weeks minimum, though 2 months is better, strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer if there is sediment, or skip this step if there is not.

6. Transfer the extracted liquid into a clean bottle with a lid and store in a cool dry spot.

Do I Have to Use Alcohol to Make Extracts?

One of the major advantages of using vodka is its odorless and tasteless nature, which allows the vanilla flavor to take center stage. Additionally, adding a small amount of alcohol helps preserve the extract by preventing the breakdown of herbal properties and inhibiting the growth of bacteria. This ensures a more stable product compared to alcohol-free glycerites. For those looking to make non-alcoholic extracts, simply replace the alcohol specified in any extract recipe with a mixture of three parts food-grade liquid glycerin and one part water. Combine the two ingredients thoroughly before proceeding with the recipe.

Tips For Storing and Using Your Homemade Maple Extract

Maple extract, similar to vanilla, almond, and peppermint extracts, can be preserved for a minimum of a year by securely sealing it in a cool, dry location. For storing extracts, oils, and other liquids, the recommended choice is lightproof glass containers. These jars are available in various sizes, including 1 oz., 2 oz., 4 oz., 8 oz., 16 oz., and 32 oz., and are designed to protect light-sensitive products from UV rays.

How to Adjust Your Almond Extract’s Strength

Making your maple extract stronger is a simple process. You can use a strong-flavored maple syrup, to begin with and/or let it sit for a more extended period before use. Once the desired strength is reached, strain the mixture. With this method, you can enhance the flavor of your maple extract to your liking.

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