Flavoring | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free Low Calorie

Lemon Extract

Citrus limon Allergen-Free
lemon extract

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Rutaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Global
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Lemon peel, Alcohol

The Forktionary Angle

"The potent, liquid sunshine for precise citrus infusions in baking."

Definition

A concentrated flavoring made by steeping lemon zest in alcohol, imparting a strong, pure lemon flavor to baked goods and desserts.

Sensory Profile

TasteIntensely Lemon, Tart, Bright
TextureLiquid
AromaHighly Concentrated Lemon Zest
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Alcohol Content

~80-90%

Equivalency (zest)

1 tsp = 1 tbsp lemon zest

Main Compound

Limonene

Nutrition Facts

Per 1 tsp (5ml)
Calories280 kcal
Total Fat0 g
Saturated Fat0 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein0 g
Total Carbohydrate0 g
Dietary Fiber0 g
Total Sugars0 g
Calcium0 mg
Iron0 mg
Potassium0 mg

Chef’s Secret

For a more vibrant, natural lemon flavor in frostings, replace a portion of the liquid with fresh lemon juice AND a small amount of extract.

Substitutions

Best Match

Lemon Zest

1 tsp extract = 1 tbsp zest

Provides fresh lemon flavor and aroma, but may add slight texture; best for baking/marinades.

Lemon Oil

1:4 (oil to extract)

More potent than extract, use sparingly for intense lemon flavor, ideal for candy or icings.

Fresh Lemon Juice

1 tsp extract = 2 tbsp juice

Adds liquid and acidity, so adjust other liquids in recipe; good for sauces, dressings, glazes.

Lime Extract

1:1

Similar citrus intensity and profile, but with a distinct lime flavor.

Buying Guide

Opt for 'pure' lemon extract for best flavor, avoid 'artificial' versions if possible.

Flavor Pairings

Cakes Cookies Muffins Frostings Sauces Marinades Fruit Salads

Recipes Using Lemon Extract

Occasion Inexpensive Mixer Oven

Alabama Blueberry Bread

Indulge in this irresistible Alabama Blueberry Bread, a moist and flavorful hybrid of quick bread and cake! Adapted from Penzeys' "One" magazine, this easy one-bowl recipe delivers a delicious snack in under an hour. Get ready for bursts of juicy blueberry goodness in every bite – perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat.

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Breakfast Equipment Low In Something Low Sodium

Ambrosia Oatmeal Ww Core

Escape to paradise with this surprisingly delicious Ambrosia Oatmeal! A unique blend of tropical fruits and warming oats creates a breakfast bowl that's both exotic and satisfying. Easily customizable to your preferred consistency and sweetness, this recipe is a must-try for oatmeal lovers seeking a flavor adventure. Get ready for a taste of the islands!

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Low Protein Course Fruit Low Protein

Ann Lander's Best Lemon Meringue Pie With Never Fail Meringue

Conquer the art of the perfect lemon meringue pie with this foolproof recipe! Achieve that iconic sky-high, bakery-style meringue with our simple trick: 6 egg whites and double the sugar! This recipe offers incredible flexibility: use a classic pie crust or a delicious graham cracker crust (perfect with whipped cream!), adjust the tartness to your liking, and even make the filling in the microwave! Prepare the filling the night before for optimal thickening, then top with meringue or whipped cream the next day. Get ready to impress with this unbelievably easy and delicious lemon meringue pie!

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Comfort Food Lunch Mixer Eggs

Another Good Pound Cake

This pound cake recipe delivers the ultimate texture experience: a melt-in-your-mouth crumb with a satisfyingly crunchy crust. Unlike other recipes that overload on powdered sugar, this one uses a full pound for exquisite sweetness and moisture. We've perfected the balance – you won't find a pound cake quite like this! Get ready to impress your friends and family with this irresistible dessert.

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Course Citrus Main Ingredient Desserts

Arizona Lemon Meringue Pie

This Arizona Lemon Meringue Pie recipe is a family favorite, bursting with fresh lemon flavor from our backyard! The high meringue is unbelievably fluffy, and the creamy lemon filling is simply divine. Use your favorite pie crust (recipe #339607 recommended!) or grab a store-bought one for a quicker dessert. Get ready for a taste of sunshine in every bite!

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Course Course Breads Preparation

Bakery Style Lemon Crumb Muffins

Indulge in the irresistible aroma and taste of these bakery-style lemon crumb muffins! Bursting with zesty lemon flavor and topped with a delightful crunchy crumb topping, these muffins are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat. Easy to follow instructions ensure baking success, even for beginners. Get ready to impress your family and friends with these unbelievably delicious muffins!

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1 Day Or More Preparation Course Desserts

Bethal's Sugar Cookies Aka Cut Out Cookies

A treasured family recipe! These melt-in-your-mouth sugar cookies are a Christmas tradition, guaranteed to impress. My mother-in-law's secret recipe, passed down through generations, makes these festive cut-outs the star of any holiday dessert table. Get ready to create beautiful, delicious cookies that will become your new holiday favorite!

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