Using orange peel and alcohol to create a delightful homemade essence or extract is a clever and cost-effective method to add flavor to your recipes without needing to buy expensive store-bought extracts. Here’s a simple way to make your own orange extract that you can use in baking, cooking, or even in crafting homemade beverages.

Homemade Orange Extract Recipe

Ingredients:

• Peels from 2-3 large oranges (ensure they are clean and free of any pesticides)
• 1 cup vodka or any neutral spirit

Equipment:

• A clean jar with a tight-fitting lid

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Orange Peels: Start by washing your oranges thoroughly. Use a vegetable peeler or a small knife to remove the peel from the oranges. Try to get just the orange part and avoid the white pith underneath, which can introduce a bitter flavor.
2. Place Peels in Jar: Place the orange peels in the clean jar. Make sure the jar is dry and free from any moisture.
3. Add Alcohol: Pour the vodka over the orange peels until they are completely submerged. The alcohol will extract the oils and flavor from the peels, creating your extract.
4. Seal and Store: Tightly seal the jar with the lid. Store the jar in a cool, dark place for about 4-6 weeks. Shake the jar gently every few days to mix the peels with the alcohol.
5. Strain and Use: After the infusion period, strain the liquid through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove all the orange peels. Pour the strained extract into a clean bottle or jar for storage. Your homemade orange extract is now ready to use!

This homemade orange extract can add a wonderful zest to cakes, cookies, frostings, and even savory dishes that could benefit from a hint of citrus. Plus, it’s a great way to use up orange peels that might otherwise be discarded. Enjoy your fragrant and flavorful addition to your pantry, made right at home without the extra expense!