Definition

Noun: - A concentrated flavoring liquid made by steeping (macerating) almonds in alcohol to capture their essential oils and flavor compounds. It is used to impart a distinct almond flavor to food and beverages.

Usage

Almond extract is used as a flavoring agent in baking and cooking. It is typically added in small quantities due to its concentrated nature. - The recipe calls for one teaspoon of almond extract in the cookie dough. - For a stronger flavor, you can substitute vanilla extract with almond extract in the frosting.

Advanced Usage

• Pure vs. Imitation: "Pure almond extract" is made from bitter almonds or almond oil, while "imitation almond extract" is synthesized from other compounds to mimic the flavor, often containing benzaldehyde.
  • Pure almond extract has a more complex flavor profile than its imitation counterpart.

Variants and Related Words

• Almond essence: A similar, often more concentrated, flavoring product. The terms "extract" and "essence" are sometimes used interchangeably, though "essence" can imply a stronger concentration or artificial version.
• Bitter almond oil: A key aromatic component used in making pure almond extract.

Synonyms

• Almond flavoring

Notes

This is a compound noun. The core concept is the extract (a substance obtained by extraction), with almond specifying its source and flavor. It functions as a single lexical unit in culinary contexts.

Noun

1. flavoring made from almonds macerated in alcohol