How Do You Make Lavender Extract

You make lavender extract by steeping lavender buds in a solvent that pulls out their oils and fragrance.
 
The most common method is using alcohol or glycerin as your base.
 
If you have dried culinary lavender on hand, you’re already halfway there.
 
This guide walks you through how to make lavender extract simply and affordably at home.
 
By the end, you’ll know how to make lavender extract using a couple of techniques, and you’ll see how versatile this aromatic staple really is.
 

How Do You Make Lavender Extract?

The answer to how do you make lavender extract comes down to two main approaches, and both are simple.

1. The Alcohol Method

This is the classic way to make lavender extract, and it’s the one most bakers and crafters rely on.
 
Grab a clean glass jar, add about one cup of dried lavender buds, and pour two cups of food-grade alcohol over them.
 
Vodka works beautifully because it’s neutral, while brandy adds a warmer note.
 
Seal the jar and give it a good shake.
 
Store it in a cool, dark spot for four to six weeks, shaking it every few days.
 
When the time is up, strain the liquid through a fine mesh or cheesecloth, then funnel it into a dark glass bottle.
 

2. The Glycerin Method

If you want to make lavender extract without alcohol, glycerin is your best friend.
 
Vegetable glycerin is sweet and syrupy, making it perfect for skincare and non-alcoholic recipes.
 
Combine one part dried lavender with two parts glycerin in a jar, shake, and let it sit for about four weeks.
 
The result is a slightly thick lavender extract that’s gentle on the skin.
 

3. The Quick Heat Method

Short on time? You can still make lavender extract in a single afternoon.
 
Gently warm your chosen solvent with lavender buds in a double boiler for about two hours.
 
Keep the heat low so you don’t cook away the delicate aroma.
 
Strain and bottle, and you’ve got a usable lavender extract right away.
 

What Kind of Lavender Should You Use?

When you make lavender extract, the type of lavender matters more than you’d think.

1. Go With Culinary Lavender

English lavender is the gold standard for making lavender extract, since it has a sweet, mild flavor.
 
French and Spanish varieties tend to be sharper and more camphor-like, which can overpower your extract.
 
Always choose buds labeled food-grade if you plan to cook or bake with your extract.
 

2. Dried Beats Fresh

Dried lavender works best for making lavender extract because too much moisture can cause spoilage.
 
If you’re using fresh buds, let them wilt for a day first to reduce their water content.
 
A general rule: one part dried lavender to two parts solvent gives a balanced, fragrant result.
 

Tips for a Better Lavender Extract

A few small habits make a big difference when you make lavender extract.

1. Use Quality Alcohol or Glycerin

To make lavender extract that actually tastes good, skip the cheap stuff.
 
Choose vodka that’s at least 80 proof, since higher alcohol content extracts more flavor.
 
For glycerin, look for food-grade vegetable glycerin rather than cosmetic versions.
 

2. Keep It Out of the Light

Light degrades the essential oils that give lavender extract its signature scent.
 
Store your jar in a cupboard, and always bottle the finished extract in amber or dark glass.
 
This is also why you should make lavender extract in small batches you’ll use within a year.
 

3. Strain Thoroughly

Tiny bits of lavender left in your extract will turn it bitter over time.
 
Double-strain through cheesecloth, or line your mesh sieve with a coffee filter.
 
Patience here means your lavender extract stays smooth and sweet for months.
 

How to Store and Use Lavender Extract

1. Proper Storage

Once you make lavender extract, seal it tightly and keep it cool and dark.
 
Alcohol-based versions last for years, while glycerin-based extract is best used within twelve months.
 

2. Everyday Uses

You can use lavender extract in cookies, cakes, lemonade, and even homemade ice cream.
 
A teaspoon or two is usually plenty, since a little lavender extract goes a long way.
 
It also shines in DIY lotions, bath salts, and room sprays.
 

So, How Do You Make Lavender Extract?

You make lavender extract by steeping dried lavender buds in alcohol or glycerin until the fragrance and flavor fully infuse.
 
The alcohol method gives you a strong, long-lasting lavender extract, while glycerin offers a gentler, alcohol-free option.
 
Whichever route you choose, quality buds, a dark storage spot, and patient steeping are the keys to success.
 
Now that you know how do you make lavender extract, grab some dried buds and start a batch today.
 
Once you make lavender extract at home, you’ll never go back to store-bought again.