Last Updated on June 1, 2025 by Nico
This lemon extract recipe uses only two ingredients and is simple to make. Lemon extract adds a tangy and bright flavor to baked goods, drinks, and even ice cream.
Lemon extract is a great one to have on hand to add to summery drinks, warming sweet bread, or even a cool drink. Homemade extracts like this or lavender extract would make a great gift for birthdays, holidays, or other special occasions. Like homemade vanilla extract or lavender extract LINK, just a splash of this lemon extract goes a long way.
What is lemon extract?
Lemon extract is made from steeping lemon peels in 80-proof alcohol. The peels are strained off after a few weeks and the resulting liquid is lemon extract! The alcohol extracts the flavour and beneficial compounds from the peels and you can use the extract in baking or to brighten up a cooling drink.
Why make lemon extract?
Lemon extract adds a citrusy flavour to baking, homemade ice cream, and drinks. At least where we live, it’s tough to find in the grocery store and when we can find unique store-bought extracts like lemon extract, they’re incredibly expensive. It’s a great way to use up the peels from lemons you have used and is super simple to make.
What kind of lemons to use?
It doesn’t matter what kind of lemon trees you get your lemons from! You can use any kind of lemons to make this extract. You just need to make sure they are unwaxed and organic is preferable.
Simple lemon extract recipe
Tools
An airtight container with a tight-fitting lid – I use a glass mason jar with parchment paper between the metal lid and tincture or extract to prevent the alcohol from corroding the metal.
Glass storage jar – I like these glass jars
A fine mesh strainer
A small funnel
A grater or knife – for grating the lemon peel or cutting the peels off
Ingredients
Fresh lemons – unwaxed and organic
80-proof vodka (or 40% alcohol)
For complete measurements, see the printable recipe card below.
Instructions
Wash your unwaxed lemons using soapy water. You can also soak them in a sink full of cold water with about ½ cup of raw apple cider vinegar for a few hours to help remove pesticides and herbicides if you are not using organic lemons.
Dry the lemons with a cloth.
Use a knife to cut the peels off of the lemons. You can alternatively zest the lemons.
Add the peels or fresh lemon zest to a clean jar. You want the jar to be about ¾ of the way full with peels or zest.
Pour vodka (or whatever alcohol you’re using) over the skin of the lemons. I used unflavoured vodka to keep the flavor of the extract neutral.
Put a lid on the jar and set it in a dark, room-temperature place for about 6-8 weeks. Aim to shake the jar every few days to keep everything submerged.
After 8 weeks, use a mesh strainer to strain off the extract.
Use a funnel to add the extract to a clean glass jar. And you’re finished! Store it in a cool dark place. I hope this recipe gives you the confidence to make your own extract from the lemons you have on hand.
How much lemon extract to use?
You can use the same amount as you would vanilla extract. Many recipes call for about 1 teaspoon of extract but make sure to check your specific recipe because a small amount of this will go a long way.
How long does lemon extract last?
Like many homemade extracts made with alcohol, this extract has a long shelf life and will last a long time if stored away from direct sunlight. I like to use the tincture within 1-2 years.
How to make a non-alcoholic version
For an alcohol-free option, you can substitute alcohol with food grade glycerin. Use the same method but replace the vodka with food-grade glycerin. The process will take a bit longer because glycerin isn’t as good at extracting flavourful lemon oil from lemons as alcohol. Leave your extract to sit for the full 8 weeks before straining. I try to use glycerin-based extracts within 1 year.
How to use lemon extract
- Add a few drops to frosting or cake batter (think lemon pound cake… yum!) for more of a lemon flavor.
- Use in marinades for fish, chicken, or tofu to brighten the flavours.
- Stir into homemade lemonade or iced tea for an extra lemon boost.
- Mix into yogurt, smoothies, or oatmeal for a tangy flavor.
- Add a splash to homemade vinaigrettes or other salad dressings for more of a lemon taste.
- Add to cocktails like lemon martinis or gin and tonics for extra zing.
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How To Make Homemade Lemon Extract (Easy Recipe)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Wash your unwaxed lemons using soapy water. You can also soak them in a sink full of cold water with about ½ cup of raw apple cider vinegar for a few hours to help remove pesticides and herbicides if you are not using organic lemons.
- Dry the lemons with a cloth.
- Use a knife to cut the peels off of the lemons. You can alternatively zest the lemons.
- Add the peels or fresh lemon zest to a clean jar. You want the jar to be about ¾ of the way full with peels or zest.
- Pour vodka (or whatever alcohol you’re using) over the skin of the lemons. I used unflavoured vodka to keep the flavor of the extract neutral.
- Put a lid on the jar and set it in a dark, room-temperature place for about 6-8 weeks. Aim to shake the jar every few days to keep everything submerged.
- After 8 weeks, use a mesh strainer to strain off the extract.
- Use a funnel to add the extract to a clean glass jar. And you’re finished! Store it in a cool dark place. I hope this recipe gives you the confidence to make your own extract from the lemons you have on hand.
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