Learn how to make your own mint extract with this simple recipe using fresh mint leaves and vodka. Use this delicious herbal mint extract to make your own mint chip ice cream or favorite dessert.

Mint extract is used in baking and is especially yummy in peppermint brownies! I’ve been growing mint in my garden have and abidance so I decided to make my own mint extract!
Homemade extracts are relatively easy to make and are much more affordable than purchasing them. I also love how amazing homemade extracts made with fresh herbs smell compared to store-bought extract. The refreshing taste of fresh mint is incomparable to extracts usually made with artificial flavors.
How To Make Mint Extract
For this DIY, you will need approximately one cup of fresh mint leaves (any variety of mint, peppermint leaves are the most common), two cups of vodka, and a clean glass mason jar.
- Harvest fresh mint leaves.
- Pat the leaves dry, then use a rolling pin or mortar and pestle to slightly grind the leaves.
- Place the mint leaves in a glass jar and add the alcohol.
- Seal the jar and store it in a cool dry place for 4-6 weeks.
- Shake the jar occasionally to distribute the mint flavor.
- When the extract is ready, strain the mint leaves from the alcohol and store the extract into a clean glass jar.

How To Use Mint Extract
Pure extract is undeniably delicious and pairs well with homemade chocolate desserts. These are some of my favorite ways to use pure peppermint extract:
- Homemade Junior Mints
- Peppermint Brownies (Gluten Free)
- Hot Chocolate (add a few drops of mint extract to make peppermint hot cocoa)
- Homemade Chocolate Mint Bars (add a few drops of mint extract to the chocolate)
- Coconut Mint Ice Cream
- Add a few drops to how water to make mint tea
- Use in place of peppermint oil in recipes
FAQ
You can use cheap vodka or go for a clean vodka like ever clear. All vodka will work in this recipe!
You can use any variety of mint! I’ve used spearmint in place of mint leaves and it tasted amazing!

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DIY Mint Extract
Learn how to make your own peppermint extract with this simple recipe using fresh mint leaves and vodka. Use this delicious herbal mint extract to make your own mint chip ice cream or favorite dessert.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-6 weeks
- Total Time: 6 weeks
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh mint leaves (fresh or store-bought)
- 1 1/2 to 2 cups of vodka (such as Everclear)
- Clean glass jar with a tight-fitting lid
Instructions
- Start by picking fresh mint leaves from your garden or purchase them from a store. Make sure the leaves are clean and free from dirt or pests. You can use any variety of mint, such as spearmint or peppermint.
- Rinse the mint leaves thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or let them air dry.
- Gently crush or bruise the mint leaves to release their natural oils. You can use your hands, a mortar and pestle, or a rolling pin to do this. Be careful not to over-mash the leaves.
- Transfer the crushed mint leaves into a clean glass jar. Fill the jar about halfway with the mint leaves. It’s okay if the leaves are slightly packed.
- Pour vodka or another high-proof alcohol over the mint leaves, completely covering them. The alcohol acts as a solvent and extracts the flavor from the leaves. Ensure that the leaves are fully submerged in the alcohol.
- Securely close the jar with a tight-fitting lid. Give it a gentle shake to mix the mint leaves and alcohol.
- Place the sealed jar in a cool, dark place, such as a kitchen cabinet or pantry. Allow the mint leaves to steep in the alcohol for at least 4 to 6 weeks. The longer the infusion time, the stronger the mint flavor will be.
- During the steeping period, give the jar a gentle shake every few days to help distribute the mint flavor evenly.
- After the steeping time is complete, strain the extract to remove the mint leaves. You can use a fine-mesh sieve, cheesecloth, or coffee filter for this step. Squeeze the leaves gently to extract any remaining liquid.
- Transfer the strained liquid into a clean, airtight bottle or jar. Label it with the date and contents for future reference.
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