Here’s how it’s made, what to use as a substitute, and more.
So naturally, you might wonder: is that peppermint extract still good?
What’s the difference between peppermint extract and peppermint oil?
Simply Recipes / Lori Rice
Purchase peppermint extract at your local grocery store or make it yourself as a fun project!
There are three main forms of the extract: natural, imitation, and artificial.
Natural peppermint extract includes minimal ingredients: alcohol, peppermint oil, and sometimes, water.
Simply Recipes / Lori Rice
Imitation and artificial extracts contain artificial flavorings.
Spearmint Vs. Peppermint
Spearmint and peppermint are two different types of mint leaves.
Peppermint has a significantly higher concentration of menthol, which gives the herb its signature cooling flavor and aroma.
Simply Recipes / Lori Rice
Peppermint Oil Vs.
Extract
Peppermint oil and peppermint extract are two very different ingredients.
Peppermint oil is the pure essential oil derived from peppermint leaves.
Simply Recipes / Karishma Pradhan
Peppermint extract is a mixture of peppermint essential oils and alcohol.
Peppermint oil is quite strong, so you oughta dilute it for most uses.
The oil is about four times as strong as the extract.
Alternatively, shop for the extract at an online specialty shop.
Pay attention to the variety you’re looking for, whether natural, imitation, or artificial.
confirm the label says ‘peppermint,’ as opposed to spearmint.
Peppermint extract should last about 3 to 4 years.
We’ve curated a few delicious, minty recipes for you to dive into!
