Mint Extract

Love the crisp and refreshing taste of mint? You'll have to try making our delicious mint extract! It's a convenient way to bring mint flavor to smoothies, cocktails and baked goods.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh mint leaves (I used Peppermint, but feel free to play around with other varieties)
• 1 1/2 to 2 cups of vodka (any brand of Vodka will work.) 

Instructions: 

1. Harvest the mint, and give it a quick rinse. Pat dry.
2. Remove the leaves from the stems, and discard the stems.
3. Crush and smash the leaves in your hands–this will help to release some of the oils and give the process a jump start.
4. Place the leaves in a pint-sized glass jar, and fill the jar the rest of the way with vodka.
5. Give it a shake and set aside in a cool, dark place.
6. Allow the mixture to steep for one to two months. Take a peek every so often to see if it’s strong enough for you.
7. Strain the leaves, and bottle the finished extract in cute little jars.