Strawberry extract is a concentrated liquid flavor derived from either natural or artificially synthesized sources. Its purpose is to enhance or impart the unique taste of strawberries to various recipes. It is made commercially by combining sweeteners, acids, and other ingredients with the essential oils extracted from the strawberry fruit.
However, you can make your own strawberry extract at home without added chemicals or preservatives. All you need is some fresh strawberries, alcohol, and a little bit of time. The result? A delicious homemade strawberry extract that will bring an unmistakable flavor to all your baking creations!
Choosing the Right Ingredients for Your Homemade Strawberry Extract
The most important thing to consider when making strawberry extract at home is the quality of your strawberries. The sweeter and riper they are, the better your extract will taste. Remember to choose strawberries that are plump and fragrant with a bright red color. The sour little greenish ones will not taste great as an extract. Also, buy organic where you can. Strawberries are one of the most heavily sprayed crops, which means the non organic varietals will transfer all those nasties into your extract.
Once you have the perfect strawberries, it’s time to think about what type of alcohol to use. Vodka is by far the most common choice for DIY extracts as it is flavorless and has a high alcohol content, which helps preserve its potency over time. However, if you prefer something sweeter, such as brandy or rum, those work too! I use vodka with an alcohol percentage of 40, which is about 80 proof. Anything less will mean a less flavorful extract.
Step-By-Step Guide to Making Strawberry Extract at Home
You will need:
- 8 oz of fresh ripe strawberries.
- 1 cup of 80-proof vodka.
Step 1 – Clean and dry your strawberries, then remove the green stems. Slice the strawberries in half.
Step 2 – You can choose the jar size according to how much extract you are making. A 12 oz jar works well for smaller batches.
Step 3 – Add the clean and sliced strawberries to the jar.
Step 4 – Fill the jar with vodka or your preferred alcohol, ensuring that the strawberries are fully submerged.
Step 5 – Allow the strawberries to extract their flavor for 4 to 8 weeks, depending on your desired taste. Shake the jar every couple of days.
Step 6 – Once the color has left the berries and the extract smells like strawberries, it is ready. Mine took 5 weeks with high-quality berries.
Step 7 – Strain the extract through a sieve into a clean, airtight jar or bottle and store for up to 1 year.
Do I Have to Use Alcohol to Make Extracts?
Vodka offers a significant advantage due to its odorless and tasteless nature, allowing the true essence of the infusion to take center stage. The presence of alcohol also helps preserve the extract by preventing the breakdown of herbal properties and the growth of bacteria.
For those who prefer non-alcoholic extracts, a simple substitution can be made. Just replace the alcohol mentioned in any extract recipe with a mixture of three parts food-grade liquid glycerin and one part water. Thoroughly combine the two ingredients by stirring until well blended. Once done, continue following the rest of the recipe as instructed.
Tips For Storing and Using Your Homemade Strawberry Extract
To preserve the freshness and potency of your strawberry extract, store it in a cool and dark location, such as a pantry or kitchen cabinet. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight and heat sources. Remember to tightly seal the bottle after each use to protect the flavor from being compromised by air exposure, which can diminish its quality and intensity.
How to Adjust Your Strawberry Extract’s Strength
Secure the jar tightly and place it in a cool, dark spot for at least two weeks and up to three months. Give the extract a good shake every week. If you want a more robust flavor, then leave the extract for the maximum 3 months. The flavor will intensify as you let it sit longer.
Watch the Video Version…
Related Articles:
How To Make Your Own Almond Extract
FAQs
If you’re looking to infuse your recipes with that authentic strawberry flavor, natural strawberry extract is the way to go, whether you’re baking cakes or cookies or even making ice cream or beverages.
Some recipes have sugar in them, but I do not use it in mine. It may be worthwhile to use some sugar if you can’t get your hands on strawberries that are sweet and ripe and may be a little sour.
From Field to Bottle: Simple Homemade Strawberry Extract
Ingredients
Instructions
You will need:
- 8 oz of fresh ripe strawberries.
- 1 cup of 80-proof vodka.
Step 1 – Clean and dry your strawberries, then remove the green stems. Slice the strawberries in half.
Step 2 – Place the sliced strawberries in a jar. You can choose the jar size according to your preference. A 12 oz jar works well for smaller batches.
Step 3 – Add the clean and sliced strawberries to the jar.
Step 4 – Fill the jar with vodka or your preferred alcohol, ensuring that the strawberries are fully submerged.
Step 5 – Allow the strawberries to extract their flavor for 4 to 8 weeks, depending on your desired taste. Shake the jar every couple of days.
Step 6 – Once the color has left the berries and the extract smells like strawberries, it is ready. Mine took 5 weeks with high-quality berries.
Step 7 – Strain the extract through a sieve into a clean, airtight jar or bottle and store for up to 1 year.
Leave a Comment