Ingredients
Method
- Rinse the mint leaves under cool water and pat them completely dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
- Strip the leaves from the stems and discard the stems.
- Place the leaves in a clean glass jar. Gently muddle them with the back of a spoon to bruise them and release their oils.
- Pour the vodka over the mint leaves. Use the spoon to press the leaves down so they are fully submerged in the alcohol.
- Seal the jar with a tight-fitting lid and store it in a dark cupboard for 3 to 4 weeks. Shake the jar gently every few days. Once the extract reaches your desired strength, strain out the leaves through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth. Transfer the extract to a dark glass bottle or a jar kept in a dark cabinet for long-term storage.
Notes
For a stronger mint flavor, let the extract steep for up to 6 weeks, shaking occasionally.
Store the finished extract in a cool, dark place; it will keep indefinitely.
Use any mint variety—spearmint, peppermint, or even chocolate mint—for different flavor profiles.
Make sure the mint leaves are bone-dry to prevent any water from diluting the extract or causing mold.
This extract is excellent for baking into cookies, cakes, or adding to homemade cocktails and teas.