Homemade Citrus Infusion Extract
Create your own vibrant and aromatic orange extract perfect for enhancing your baked goods, sweets, or even as a thoughtful addition to homemade gift baskets. This easy-to-follow recipe requires only navel oranges, vodka, and a little patience to develop its delightful citrusy aroma. Customize your extract by substituting lemons or limes for a personalized twist. Bottle it beautifully for a splendid homemade gift, ensuring to include a usage suggestion for the lucky recipient!
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
3
Ingredients
Ingredients
Navel Orange
1 (Peeled, no white pith, finely chopped)
Boiling Water
1/4 cup (Boiled)
Vodka
1/2 cup (None)
Instructions
1
Begin by thoroughly cleansing one large navel orange with soap and water to remove any pesticides, dirt, and germs. Pat dry with a clean towel.
2
Carefully peel the orange, taking care to avoid the white pith which can impart a bitter taste. Finely chop the peel using a food processor.
3
Sterilize a glass jar by boiling it in water. Once ready, place the chopped orange peel into the sterile jar.
4
Pour 1/4 cup of boiling water over the orange peel followed by 1/2 cup of vodka. Stir gently to combine.
5
Let the mixture cool to room temperature. Cover the jar and store it in a cool, dark place such as a cupboard for 3 to 7 days to allow the flavors to infuse.
6
After steeping, strain the liquid using a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into small sterile bottles to remove the peel remnants.
7
Seal the bottles. If giving as a gift, label each bottle 'Citrus Infusion Extract' and embellish with ribbon or other decorative elements.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Homemade Citrus Infusion Extract?
It is a vibrant and aromatic flavoring made from citrus peels and alcohol, perfect for baking and gifts.
What are the primary ingredients needed?
You will need one large navel orange, 1/4 cup of boiling water, and 1/2 cup of vodka.
Can I use fruits other than oranges?
Yes, you can substitute the orange with lemons or limes for a personalized citrus twist.
Why is it important to wash the orange?
Washing with soap and water removes pesticides, dirt, and germs from the peel before infusion.
What part of the orange should be avoided?
You should avoid the white pith, as it can impart a bitter taste to the extract.
How should I prepare the orange peel?
The peel should be finely chopped, which can be easily done using a food processor.
How do I prepare the glass jar for storage?
The glass jar must be sterilized by boiling it in water before adding the ingredients.
What is the first liquid added to the peels?
The first liquid added is 1/4 cup of boiling water.
What type of alcohol is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of vodka to be added after the boiling water.
How long does the citrus mixture need to steep?
The mixture should infuse in a cool, dark place for 3 to 7 days.
Where is the best place to store the jar while it infuses?
A cool, dark place such as a kitchen cupboard is ideal for the infusion process.
Do I need to cool the mixture before storing?
Yes, let the mixture cool to room temperature before covering the jar and storing it.
How do I remove the peel remnants after infusion?
Strain the liquid using a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into small sterile bottles.
How can I use this extract?
It is perfect for enhancing baked goods, sweets, and various dessert recipes.
Is this extract suitable for gifting?
Yes, it makes a splendid homemade gift, especially when bottled beautifully and labeled.
How should I label the bottles for gifts?
Label each bottle as 'Citrus Infusion Extract' and consider adding a usage suggestion.
What kind of orange is best for this recipe?
A large navel orange is recommended for the best flavor profile.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings of extract.
Can I add decorative elements to the gift bottles?
Yes, you can embellish the bottles with ribbon or other decorative elements for a gourmet look.
Is a food processor necessary?
While helpful for fine chopping, it is primarily suggested to ensure the peel is finely processed.
Should the bottles be sterile?
Yes, the final storage bottles should be sterile to ensure the longevity of the extract.
What is the ingredient count for this recipe?
There are 3 main ingredients: navel orange, boiling water, and vodka.
Can this be used for gourmet baking?
Yes, it is considered a natural gourmet flavoring for high-quality baking results.
Does the recipe contain sugar?
No, this specific recipe does not include added sugar.
Is the extract natural?
Yes, it is a DIY natural flavoring made from fresh fruit and spirits.
What is the preparation for the navel orange?
It should be peeled with no white pith and then finely chopped.
Can I use boiling water alone?
No, the vodka is essential to act as the solvent that extracts the citrus oils and preserves the liquid.
How many days is the minimum for infusion?
The minimum infusion time is 3 days, though up to 7 days provides a deeper aroma.
What tags define this recipe?
Common tags include homemade, orange extract, citrus, DIY, and natural flavoring.
Should I stir the mixture?
Yes, stir the mixture gently once the boiling water and vodka are added to combine them.