how to make cinnamon extract

3 min read 07-02-2025

Meta Description: Learn how to make your own delicious cinnamon extract at home! This comprehensive guide provides a step-by-step process, tips for choosing the best ingredients, and storage instructions to ensure your extract lasts. Discover the simple method to create this versatile flavor enhancer for baking, cooking, and more.

Making your own cinnamon extract is surprisingly simple and far more rewarding than buying store-bought versions. This guide will walk you through the process, from selecting the right ingredients to storing your finished product.

Choosing Your Cinnamon and Alcohol

The quality of your cinnamon extract hinges on the quality of your ingredients.

Cinnamon Sticks:

Type: Ceylon cinnamon (also known as Cinnamomum verum) offers a more delicate, sweeter flavor compared to Cassia cinnamon (Cinnamomum cassia). Cassia is stronger and more readily available, so choose whichever best suits your preference. For a milder flavor, opt for Ceylon.
Quantity: You'll need approximately 1 cup of broken cinnamon sticks. Breaking them into smaller pieces increases their surface area, allowing for better extraction.

Alcohol:

Type: Use a high-proof alcohol such as vodka or Everclear (190 proof). Lower-proof alcohols will result in a weaker extract and may spoil more easily. Avoid using flavored alcohols as they will impact the taste of your extract.
Quantity: You'll need approximately 1 cup of alcohol.

The Extraction Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

This method yields a potent, flavorful extract.

Step 1: Preparation

Carefully break the cinnamon sticks into smaller pieces. This maximizes surface area for better extraction.
Place the broken cinnamon sticks in a clean, airtight glass jar.

Step 2: Infusing

Pour the alcohol over the cinnamon sticks, ensuring they are completely submerged.
Seal the jar tightly.
Place the jar in a cool, dark place. Avoid direct sunlight.

Step 3: Aging and Shaking

Let the mixture sit for at least 4-6 weeks. The longer it infuses, the stronger the flavor will be. Some recipes suggest up to 8 weeks or even longer!
Shake the jar vigorously once a day during the first week to help with extraction. After that, shake it once or twice a week.

Step 4: Filtering

After the infusion period, line a fine-mesh sieve with cheesecloth or a coffee filter.
Slowly pour the cinnamon-infused alcohol through the filter into a clean, airtight glass bottle or jar. This will separate the liquid extract from the cinnamon pieces.
Discard the used cinnamon sticks.

Step 5: Storage

Store your homemade cinnamon extract in a cool, dark place. Properly stored, it should last for several years.

Tips for Success

Avoid using metal containers: Metal can react with the alcohol and affect the flavor and quality of your extract.
Label your bottle: Include the date you made it and the type of cinnamon used.
Experiment with different cinnamon types: Compare the flavor profiles of Ceylon and Cassia cinnamon extracts.

Using Your Homemade Cinnamon Extract

Homemade cinnamon extract is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of ways:

Baking: Add it to cookies, cakes, muffins, and more for a warm, comforting cinnamon flavor.
Cooking: Use it in savory dishes like stews, curries, and chili for a subtle spice kick.
Drinks: Enhance your coffee, tea, or hot chocolate with a dash of cinnamon extract.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use other types of alcohol besides vodka?

A: While vodka is recommended for its neutral flavor, you can experiment with other high-proof alcohols like Everclear (190 proof). Avoid using flavored alcohols.

Q: How long will my cinnamon extract last?

A: Properly stored in a cool, dark place, your cinnamon extract should last for several years.

Q: Can I make a larger batch?

A: Yes! Simply increase the ratio of cinnamon sticks and alcohol proportionally.

Making your own cinnamon extract is a rewarding culinary project that lets you control the quality and flavor of your ingredients. Enjoy experimenting and savoring the delicious results!