How Is Anise Extract Made?

Anise

• Growing to 18 inches tall, anise is an herb originating in areas of Africa, Asia and Europe. The plant displays slender, upright growth. The stalks look similar to celery as it grows. Yellow-white flowers are followed by greenish gray seeds, which have a sweet, slightly tangy aroma. Commonly used in cookies and cakes, anise has a licorice flavor. Anise extract can be purchased or made at home.

Making Extracts

• To create an extract, plant parts are placed in a liquid and allowed to steep over a long period of time. The liquid absorbs the essence or flavor of the items. To make anise extract, the seeds, which are the fragrant part of the anise plant, are used.

Homemade

• Making your own anise extract is quite easy but requires some patience. Once made, it takes several months for the flavor to develop. Simply fill a jar with anise seeds, cover the seeds completely with high-proof alcohol (vodka or similar), seal the jar and store it in a cool, dark place for several months. The resulting liquid is your extract.

Uses

• Anise extract has many uses. The licorice flavor of anise has a global following. Anise is a popular addition to liquors of the French, Greek and Turkish peoples. Many baked goods have the distinctive anise flavor including pfefferneusse and biscotti.