Easy Chocolate Mint Extract Recipe - Just Three Ingredients (2024)

FAQs

How long does homemade mint extract last? ›

Store in a cool, dry, dark place (such as a cupboard) and swirl once a day for at least 4 weeks (or longer, if you prefer a stronger extract). Strain out the leaves and pour the extract into a dark jar or other container (exposing your extract to light can decrease shelf life). Will keep for up to 6 months.

There are three main forms of the extract: natural, imitation, and artificial. Natural peppermint extract includes minimal ingredients: alcohol, peppermint oil, and sometimes, water. Imitation and artificial extracts contain artificial flavorings.

Chocolate mint is a close relative to ordinary peppermint (Mentha piperita). This hybrid is formed by crossing M. citrata (orange mint) with M. piperita to make the 'Chocolate' cultivar.

Store refrigerated for 3 to 5 days: it's freshest for up to 3 days. How to store mint leaves: Place the leaves in moistened paper towels, then place the towels in a plastic bag but don't seal it. Store refrigerated for up to 3 days.

But dried mint is a different story. Though its grassy, vegetal flavors dissipate during drying, its characteristic minty flavors, which come from a class of compounds known as terpenes, are far more stable and potent.

I am particularly fond of adding it to hot chocolate & brownies. Chocolate mint also makes delicious tea -- simply dry the leaves & flowers, or steep it fresh on its own for a lovely cup. Simply boil your water & sweetener in a good sized saucepan, stirring to dissolve.

In most cases, chocolate past its expiration date is still safe to eat, provided it has been stored properly and shows no signs of spoilage. However, if chocolate exhibits any unusual odors, flavors, or textures, it's best to discard it to avoid any potential health risks.

Mint extract is a mixture of spearmint and peppermint, whereas peppermint extract is just that. Whether you prefer the subtle flavor of spearmint or the in-your-face flavor of peppermint, we have a recipe to suit your taste. Below, we've shared some of our favorite mint recipes.

The mint will turn brown. This is absolutely normal, just keep letting it sit and shake it every few days and make sure the mint is always covered with alcohol. The extract will smell like alcohol a lot in the beginning. This is normal.

What are the side effects of mint extract? ›

Possible side effects of peppermint oil taken orally include heartburn, nausea, abdominal pain, and dry mouth. Rarely, peppermint oil can cause allergic reactions. Capsules containing peppermint oil are often enteric-coated to reduce the likelihood of heartburn.

Chocolate mint is a cultivar of peppermint, a cultivar being a strain cultivated specifically for a few desirable characteristics—in the case of chocolate mint, the pretty brown hue of its stems and an aroma that's been compared to Andes mints (the chocolate-peppermint candy that your grandparents liked to keep in the ...

You could also use it in the kitchen in many desserts. Tear the leaves and sprinkle over macerated strawberries and cream, brownies with vanilla ice cream, chocolate tarts, and more. Finally, you could use it to garnish dessert-y drinks, milkshakes, or iced coffee.

Chocolate Mint contains several vitamins and minerals that can aid your immune system and reduce chronic inflammation. Its refreshing flavour, like other mints, awakens the mind, increasing focus and cognitive function. Its soothing qualities may aid digestive function and relieve breathing problems.

Extracts don't go bad due to the high alcohol content. Keep them sealed, in a cupboard, and away from light and heat and they should keep indefinitely. If you like this recipe, you may also be interested in these other recipes for things you didn't know you could make at home: Homemade Gumdrops.

Shelf Life and Storage Tips

Typically, an unopened bottle of peppermint extract can remain fresh for an estimated 3 to 5 years if stored properly. Once opened, it can still maintain its best quality for about 2 years. Quality and flavor, however, are subject to the influence of storage conditions.

Flavoring extracts can evaporate over time. Most of the shelf life is between 6 months to 1 year, with the exception of pure vanilla extract. Pure vanilla extract can improve with age if stored in a dark cool place. Try these tips to keep your spice rack on track!

Mint extract is a mixture of spearmint and peppermint, whereas peppermint extract is just that. Whether you prefer the subtle flavor of spearmint or the in-your-face flavor of peppermint, we have a recipe to suit your taste. Below, we've shared some of our favorite mint recipes.