Peppermint extract is a popular flavoring for all sorts of baked goods and desserts. However, what do you do if you run out or can’t find peppermint extract?
Here’s the story:
I was out of peppermint extract and needed to make peppermint brownies for a party.
I had never used a substitute before, but I decided to give it a try.
I looked up several different substitutes and decided to go with watermint extract.
The watermint extract ended up giving the brownies a delicious flavor – they were a big hit at the party!
With many people asking for the recipe, which I had to share.
Keep reading, I’ll explain the differences and similarities between the best substitutes and also give examples of how to use them.
So don’t let running out of peppermint extract stop you from baking your favorite recipes –
Simply use one of the substitutes from our list!
Substitutes for Peppermint Extract:
- Peppermint leaves and vodka
- Rosemary
- Herbal mint tea
- Basil
- Methanol crystals
- Peppermint oil
- Watermint extract
- Creme De Menthe
- Spearmint extract
- Peppermint schnapps
Peppermint leaves and vodka
A great substitute for Peppermint extract is Peppermint leaves and vodka.
Just mix 1 part Peppermint leaves to 1 part vodka, let it soak for a couple of months and you’ve got a homemade extract that’s just as flavorful.
One of the great things about using this substitute is that it works well in a 1:1 ratio, so you don’t have to worry about making any adjustments to your recipes.
Just use it in place of the extract, and you’ll be good to go.
It can be used in cookies, cakes, and other dishes where Peppermint extract is called for.
And best of all, it’s easy to make at home.
Trust me, your cookies will taste just as delicious!
Rosemary
Rosemary and vodka make for a pretty good substitute for peppermint extract, especially in a pinch.
They’re alike in character,
With both being so minty and refreshing. Hence they can work well in many of the same dishes.
This substitution works especially well in savory recipes, like mint sauce or lamb chops with mint pesto. The rosemary adds a nice earthy flavor that compliments the mint nicely.
And who knows, maybe your guests will be so impressed with the unusual flavor combination that they’ll never guess it was a last-minute substitution!
And let’s not forget the health benefits of potassium, which is essential for brain function.
Herbal mint tea
Herbal mint tea is a foolproof substitute for peppermint extract. This refreshing beverage is available practically everywhere, and it can do more than just flavor your favorite dishes.
According to some studies, drinking herbal mint tea can improve memory and help you get better sleep.
And of course, it’s perfect for making minty desserts like mint chocolate cake or mint ice cream.
When substituting herbal mint tea for peppermint extract, you can use the same amount as you would peppermint extract.
Basil
When I’m all out of peppermint extract, I’ll just use some basil instead.
It’s a highly aromatic herb with a tad bit of flavor difference, but it makes for a suitable swap.
The peppery highlights of the basil will add just the right touch of flavor to whatever dish I’m making.
Here are some dishes that are typically prepared with peppermint extract that you can now make using a 1:1 swap with basil:
-Basil Chocolate Chip Cookies: Craving something sweet and minty? These cookies will do the trick!
-Basil Sorbet: This refreshing dessert is perfect for a summer day.
-Basil Vinaigrette: Add some zing to your salad with this flavorful dressing.
Best of all basil improves blood flow and is filled with beta carotene.
Methanol crystals
I’m always looking for ways to cut corners in the kitchen. And one of my favorite shortcuts is using readily available, multipurpose ingredients instead of more specialized (and often more expensive) ones.
So when I came across crystals made from methanol, I knew I had found a new favorite kitchen hack.
Methanol crystals can be used as a substitute for peppermint extract in a variety of dishes.
And because they’re readily available and relatively inexpensive, they’re perfect for anyone on a budget.
But that’s not all!
The crystals also have several other uses, including as a fragrance for lotions and as an ingredient in makeup.
In fact, methanol crystals are becoming increasingly popular as a way to add a revitalizing fragrance to many products.
Peppermint oil
When I found out that peppermint oil can be used as a substitute for peppermint extract, I was intrigued.
This alternative is made by distilling the essential oils from the peppermint plant. The result is a more concentrated flavor that is perfect for baking and cooking.
Not only does it have a stronger scent, but it also provides the same invigorating flavor that we all love.
And because it is more concentrated, you only need to use 1/4 teaspoon of oil for every 1 teaspoon of extract called for in a recipe.
In addition to its flavor benefits, peppermint oil is also a good source of folate, which is an important nutrient for pregnant women.
It can also be used to make a refreshing cup of tea. Simply add 1/4 teaspoon of oil to a cup of boiling water and enjoy.
You’ll be sure to benefit from the boost energy it will provide.
Watermint extract
Substituting watermint extract for peppermint extract is another good option.
On the surface, they may seem like they would be interchangeable, but there are some key differences between the two that you should be aware of before making the switch.
For one, watermint extract has a much higher level of menthol than peppermint extract, so it will have a greater cooling effect.
Additionally, it has a fresher zing that can really brighten up a dish.
And finally, watermint is known to aid digestion, so if your recipe is intended to be served after a meal, this could be a beneficial substitute.
Creme De Menthe
Don’t be afraid to reach for the creme de menthe as a suitable substitute for peppermint extract.
This milky green liqueur with a sweet, minty flavor is sure to surprise your taste buds.
Before we go any further, I want to set something straight…
Because this is booze, it will not be a suitable trade for everyone.
However, this milky, sweet, minty booze is a suitable trade for peppermint extract in many cases. It has a subtle fragrance that will enhance your dish without overwhelming it.
Plus, what could be more refreshing than a minty milkshake?
Just be careful not to use too much, or your drink will be too boozy.
Spearmint extract
Spearmint makes an excellent replacement for peppermint extract. Both have that refreshing, cooling flavor that’s perfect for summertime treats.
But peppermint extract is made from the plant Mentha piperita, while spearmint extract comes from Mentha spicata.
The difference in plants leads to a difference in flavor.
Peppermint extract is more potent, with a sharper mint flavor and slight astringency. Spearmint extract is sweeter, with a more mellow flavor.
And while peppermint extract has a small amount of menthol, which gives it a cooling buzz on the tongue, spearmint lacks this compound.
So what does that mean for your baking?
If you’re looking for a minty flavor without the cooling sensation, spearmint is your ideal substitute for peppermint extract. It’s perfect for sweet treats like Butter Mint Cookies – just use a 1:1 ratio of spearmint to peppermint extract.
Yum!
Peppermint schnapps
Looking for a powerful peppermint kick?
You might want to consider using peppermint schnapps as a 1-to-1 substitute for peppermint extract.
This readily accessible alcoholic peppermint beverage can be used in a variety of dishes, from cheesecakes to cocktails.
While it’s not exactly the same as peppermint extract, it can still add a delicious minty flavor to your favorite recipes.
And since it’s already infused with alcohol, you may find that it adds an extra bit of zing to your favorite recipes.
Plus let’s face it, sometimes we all need a little boost from the bottle.
I know I do!
FAQ
Is peppermint oil and extract the same?
No, peppermint oil and peppermint extract are not the same.
Peppermint oil is made by distilling the minty essential oils from the peppermint plant. Peppermint extract is made by infusing peppermint oil into alcohol.
Can I use watermelon mint in place of peppermint?
Yes, you can use watermelon mint in place of peppermint.
Watermelon mint has a similar flavor to peppermint, but it is not as potent. You may need to use more watermelon mint than peppermint to get the desired flavor.
Do all recipes require peppermint extract?
No, not all recipes require peppermint extract.
If you are looking for a peppermint flavor, you can try using peppermint essential oil or peppermint extract.
If you do not have peppermint extract, you can also try using peppermint schnapps, creme de menthe, or spearmint extract.
In Conclusion
As you can see, there are many peppermint extract substitutes that can be used in a bind.
Each one has its own unique flavor that can enhance your recipe in different ways.
So the next time you’re in the middle of baking and realize you’re out of peppermint extract, don’t panic!
Just grab one of these substitutes and your dish will be just as delicious.
Now go forth and bake (or drink) to your heart’s content!
Cheers!