What can you substitute for peppermint extract? 12 alternate

Peppermint extract is often used in baking, but what do you do when it’s out of stock, and you need to make something now? 

Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. Here is some substitute for peppermint extract that will work in most recipes even be used in various ways.

Not only will these replacements work well, but they also have their own unique advantages. For example, if you’re looking for a substitution with a similar flavor profile to peppermint extract, try mint oil or spearmint extract. 

But if you need a gluten-free substitution, we recommend using vanilla extract or almond extract instead.

Pick the substitute that best suits your needs and get cooking!

What is Peppermint Extract? What does peppermint taste like?

Peppermint extract is a flavoring agent made from the essential oil of peppermint leaves. Another wat to represent, Peppermint extract is a concentrated oil that contains menthol. It has a minty, refreshing fragrance and flavor.

It adds taste to food and beverages and in cosmetic products. Peppermint extract is also a natural remedy for digestive problems and respiratory issues.

What does peppermint taste like?

Most people will say peppermint tastes like a refreshing, mouth-cooling candy cane. Many individuals, however, have told me that it has a sweet minty flavor.

What is peppermint extract suitable for?

Peppermint extract is used in cooking like desserts, candy canes, herbal remedies (pest repellent), toothpaste, chewing gum, and flavored candy.

peppermint extract ingredients

· Menthol is the active ingredient

· Peppermint leaves essential oil

What can I use instead of peppermint extract? – 12 Substitute for Peppermint Extract

1. FRESH MINT SUBSTITUTE For Peppermint extract

Fresh mint is a type of mint that is used in cooking. It has a strong, fresh flavor that is different from other mint types. 

You can use it as a recipe to add a fresh taste or as a garnish. Fresh mint can also be used to make tea.

fresh mint substitute for peppermint extract

Use 1 teaspoon of fresh mint for every 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract called for in the recipe.

2. Substitute PEPPERMINT ESSENCE For Peppermint Extract 

Peppermint oil is a type of essential oil that is extracted from the peppermint plant. It has a refreshing, minty scent and is often used in aromatherapy. Peppermint oil can also be used to flavor food and drinks.

If you are looking for a substitute for peppermint extract, you can use peppermint oil. However, you will require to use less oil than extract since oil is more potent. 

Start by using 1/4 teaspoon of oil for every teaspoon of extract called for in a recipe.

3. Substitute CREME DE MENTHE For Peppermint Extract

Creme de menthe is a sweet, green liqueur made from peppermint oil and alcohol. 

You can see it in cocktails, desserts, and sauces. Use 1 teaspoon of Creme de menthe for every 1 tablespoon of Peppermint Extract.

4. Substitute MINT EXTRACT For Peppermint Extract

Mint extract is a flavoring agent made from the leaves of the mint plant. It has a refreshing, cooling flavor that is perfect for use in beverages, desserts, and savory dishes. The mint extract can also be used as a natural insect repellent.

Mint extract has a rejuvenating, minty flavor and can be used to flavor foods and drinks. 

You can cover mint extract for peppermint extract. These extracts have a milder flavor than peppermint extract and will give your food or drink a subtle mint flavor.

5. WATERMINT EXTRACT 

If you don’t have anything for a substitute for peppermint extract, you can use watermint extract in most recipes.

Watermint extract is a type of mint extract made from watermint leaves. It has a sweet, refreshing flavor and can be used to flavor food and drinks. 

watermint extract is a perfect substitute for watermint extract

However, keep in mind that the flavor of watermint extract is not as strong as peppermint extract, so you may require to use more of it. 

Additionally, because watermint extract is made from fresh leaves, it may not be as stable as other extracts and may spoil faster. 

Therefore, it is best to keep watermint extract in the fridge and use it within a few weeks.

6. PEPPERMINT BARK – A Decent Alternative to Peppermint Extract 

Peppermint bark is a holiday favorite, but it can be expensive to buy. This recipe demonstrates how to manufacture your own peppermint bark for a fraction of the price.

You will need 1/2 cup white chocolate chips, 1/4 cup peppermint extract, 1-2 cups dark chocolate chips.

Instructions:

1. preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a small bowl, microwave the white chocolate chips for 30 seconds. Stir and continue microwaving in 15-second intervals until melted.

3. Pour the melted white chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it into a thin layer. Freeze for 10 minutes.

4. stir together the peppermint extract and dark chocolate chips in a small bowl.

5. Pour the chocolate mixture over the frozen white chocolate and spread it into a thin layer. Freeze for another 10 minutes.

6. Break the bark into pieces and store it in an airtight container.

You can also use this recipe to make peppermint extract. Simply omit the dark chocolate chips and stir 1/4 cup of peppermint extract into the melted white chocolate. Pour the combination into a jar and store it in a cool, dry place.

So there you have it – an easy and affordable way to make your own peppermint bark. Enjoy!

7. PEPPERMINT SCHNAPPS -Good Peppermint Extract Replacement

Peppermint Schnapps is a type of liquor that is made from peppermint extract. It is a clear, colorless liquor with a sweet and minty taste. It can be utilized as a replacement for peppermint extract in recipes.

When substituting Peppermint Schnapps for peppermint extract, use 1/2 teaspoon of Peppermint Schnapps for every 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract.

If a recipe does not call for any liquid, use 1/4 teaspoon of Peppermint Schnapps for every 1/4 teaspoon of peppermint extract. 

Be sure to taste the recipe as you make it to ensure that it has the desired level of mintiness.

8. Try FRESH BASIL Instead of Peppermint Extract 

Basil is a fresh, flavorful herb that can be used in many dishes. It has a slightly sweet, anise-like flavor and goes well with tomatoes, cheese, and eggs.

When substituted for peppermint extract, basil can add a unique flavor to desserts or drinks. Basil is available year-round in most grocery stores.

To substitute fresh basil for peppermint extract, measure out the amount of basil you will need. 

For every 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract called for in a recipe, use 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of crushed basil leaves.

If you use whole leaves, use about 2 teaspoons of fresh basil for every 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract. 

You can also use 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil leaves in place of 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract.

9. PEPPERMINT SYRUP -Excellent Subs for Peppermint Extract

Peppermint syrup is a sweetener that is used to flavor foods and beverages. It is made from peppermint oil and water, and it can be substituted for peppermint extract in recipes. 

Peppermint extract is a concentrated form of peppermint oil, so it has a stronger flavor than peppermint syrup. Peppermint syrup can also be used to make peppermint tea.

To make peppermint tea, add 1-2 teaspoons of peppermint syrup to a cup of hot water. Stir to combine, and enjoy! 

Alternatively, you can brew peppermint tea by adding a few drops of peppermint oil to hot water. Peppermint oil is more potent than peppermint syrup, so you may need to use less oil if you are using it to make tea.

If you use peppermint syrup in a recipe, you can substitute 1 teaspoon of peppermint syrup for 1/4 teaspoon of peppermint extract

Keep in mind that the flavor of peppermint syrup will be less concentrated than the flavor of peppermint extract.

10. SPEARMINT EXTRACT 

Spearmint extract is a type of mint extract made from the spearmint plant. It has a sweet, refreshing flavor and can be used with peppermint extract in recipes.

Spearmint extract can also be used to make homemade candy or to flavor beverages.

However, keep in mind that spearmint extract is not as strong as peppermint extract, so you may need to use more of it. 

Additionally, spearmint extract may not be appropriate for all recipes, so always check the recipe instructions before using it.

11. Peppermint Extract Substitute CANDY CANE 

One option for a peppermint extract substitute is the candy cane. 

You may not yield the same flavor, so it’s up to you whether you want to go with candy cane extract or peppermint extract instead.

Read More- Best Lemon Extract Substitutes

How to make peppermint extract (Homemade Peppermint Extract Alternate)

Making peppermint extract is an easy process that can be done in just a few steps.

The first thing is to gather the ingredients that you will need. You will need 

· Peppermint leaves, 

· Vodka, and 

· Water.

The second step is to wash the peppermint leaves and pat them dry.

The third step is to place the leaves in a jar and pour the vodka over them.

The fourth step is to place the jar in a cool, dark place and let it steep for at least two weeks.

The fifth step is to strain the extract and discard the leaves.

The sixth step is to add water to the extract until it reaches your desired concentration.

You can now use your peppermint extract to make delicious hot chocolate!

Peppermint extract can also be kept in a cool, dark place for up to a year.

The quick and simple process of making your own peppermint extract will give you a high-quality product that can be used in a wide variety of treats, from hot cocoa to peppermint bark!

Read More- Best Maple Extract Substitutes

Best Peppermint Extract

  • McCormick Pure Peppermint Extract,(from amazon)
  • Horbäach Peppermint Leaf Liquid Extract-  Vegetarian, Non-GMO & Gluten-Free (from amazon)

FAQs Related To Peppermint Extract & Its Alternatives

Q1. Can I substitute peppermint schnapps for peppermint extract?

Yes, you can substitute peppermint schnapps for peppermint extract. 

The one you choose will determine how strong the flavor is. Peppermint extract is usually made with the oil of wintergreen, which carries a strong flavor and can be dangerous if ingested in large quantities or by those who are not used to it. 

Peppermint schnapps is usually made from grain alcohol and natural or artificial flavors of peppermint. There is no wintergreen oil or extract added, so it’s safe for everyone to enjoy.

Q2. Are mint and peppermint extract the same thing?

Mint and peppermint are members of the Mentha genus, a group that comprises about 25 species of aromatic plants. 

Peppermint ( M. spicata ) has a higher menthol content than other mint species, hence its more powerful impact on the senses. 

However, even though it is well-known for its source of natural menthol, peppermint oil is NOT simply extracted from the plant’s fresh leaves. 

In fact, it is not only peppermint that can yield menthol in its purest form. 

The Mentha genus contains many essential oils and extracts, such as peppermint oil ( M. spicata ), spearmint oil ( M. cardiaca ), and corn mint oil ( M. arvensis ). 

Peppermint is often preferred over the other species of mint due to its higher menthol content since this gives the oil its distinctive minty/cooling sensation.

Q3. Can I substitute vanilla extract for peppermint extract?

Vanilla extract and peppermint extract are both flavoring agents used in food. They have different flavors, so it is up to a personal preference for which one is used.

The two extracts are also not interchangeable when it comes to recipes.

Q4. Can I use candy canes instead of peppermint extract?

Yes, you can use candy canes instead of peppermint extract. 
You can use 1 candy cane for every teaspoon of peppermint extract called for in the recipe. 

If you want to, you can crush your candy cane (or candy canes) using a mortar and pestle, place the candy cane(s) in a zip-lock bag and crush them with a rolling pin or meat mallet, or place them on a cutting board and crush them with the bottom of your measuring cup. 

When using candy canes, you will need to reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe by about ¼ cup per every 1 tsp. Called for with peppermint extract.

Q5. Do vanilla and peppermint go together?

I remembered that mint chocolate chip ice cream and toasted almond were a popular combination.

Peppermint extract is mostly oil of peppermint, water, and alcohol. The peppermint oil gives this recipe its strong taste.
 
Mint leaves contain the same kind of oil but are not as strong as the extract. You can use either one you prefer.

Vanilla contains some alcohol too, but not enough to dry up this lotion.

Q6. Can you substitute peppermint extract for peppermint?

Yes, you can substitute peppermint extract for peppermint. 

Peppermint extract is a concentrated form of peppermint flavor, so you will need to use less of it than you would peppermint. 

Start by substituting 1 teaspoon of extract for every 1 tablespoon of peppermint.

Leave a Comment