Quick Answer
Almond extract is very low in calories. One teaspoon (5 ml) of pure almond extract contains around 5 calories. The calories come entirely from the natural almond oil in the extract. Almond extract has no carbohydrates, protein, fat, fiber or other micronutrients.
What is Almond Extract?
Almond extract is a flavoring agent made from almond oil and contains the natural aroma of almonds. It is used to provide flavor to baked goods, desserts, beverages and other foods.
Pure almond extract is made solely from almond oil and contains no other added ingredients. Imitation almond extract may contain other flavorings and added sugar or corn syrup.
Almond extract has an intensely nutty, aromatic flavor that works well in both sweet and savory dishes. A small amount of almond extract can provide a big burst of almond taste.
Nutrition Facts for Almond Extract
Here are the nutrition facts for a 1 teaspoon (5ml) serving of pure almond extract:
| Calories | 5 |
| Fat | 0g |
| Carbohydrates | 0g |
| Protein | 0g |
| Fiber | 0g |
| Sugar | 0g |
| Sodium | 0mg |
As you can see, almond extract is very low in calories and contains no fat, carbs, protein or micronutrients.
The calories come entirely from the almond oil. Almond oil is 100% fat, providing 884 calories per 100 grams. But since almond extract is diluted with water and alcohol, a teaspoon only provides around 5 calories.
Calories in Different Brands of Almond Extract
The number of calories can vary slightly between brands of almond extract based on the exact concentration of almond oil. But most contain around 5 calories per teaspoon.
Here are the calories for some common brands of pure almond extract:
- McCormick Pure Almond Extract: 5 calories per teaspoon
- Nielsen-Massey Pure Almond Extract: 5 calories per teaspoon
- Simply Organic Almond Extract: 5 calories per teaspoon
- Watkins Almond Extract: 5 calories per teaspoon
- Trader Joe’s Almond Extract: 5 calories per teaspoon
Imitation almond extracts or those with added sugar may be higher in calories. For example, a teaspoon of Trader Joe’s Imitation Almond Extract contains 15 calories.
But pure almond extract from any brand will be very low in calories, ranging from 0-5 calories per teaspoon.
Calories from Almond Extract in Recipes
When added to recipes, almond extract contributes very minimal calories.
For example, if a batch of cookies calls for 1 teaspoon of almond extract, the extract would only add 5 calories to the entire batch.
This equates to a trivial amount of calories per cookie. Even a dozen cookies would only get an extra 0.4 calories each from the almond extract.
Here are some examples of how almond extract contributes calories to recipes:
- Cake with 2 tsp almond extract: Adds 10 calories total
- Berry pie with 1 tsp almond extract: Adds 5 calories total
- Smoothie with 1/4 tsp almond extract: Adds 1 calorie total
- Pancakes with 1/8 tsp almond extract: Adds 0.5 calories total
As you can see, the calories added from almond extract are negligible in recipes. The other ingredients like flour, sugar, milk and butter provide the vast majority of calories.
Almond Extract and Weight Loss
Almond extract can be a good choice for recipes when you are trying to lose weight or on a low calorie diet.
Substituting a small amount of almond extract for higher calorie ingredients can help reduce the calories while keeping the flavor.
For example, you can use almond extract in place of:
- Heavy cream – Almond extract adds rich flavor with way fewer calories and less fat.
- Butter – Reduce the butter called for in recipes and add a bit of almond extract for moisture and flavor.
- Oils – Almond extract can provide some of the richness of oil without all the fat and calories.
- Nuts – Sprinkle almonds on top adds calories fast. Almond extract gives you the flavor without the calories.
Almond extract gives you flexibility to reduce calories in recipes while keeping the great taste. Because it is so intensely flavored, a little almond extract goes a long way.
Storing Almond Extract
Unopened almond extract can be stored in a cool, dry pantry for several years. Once opened, it will keep for 1-2 years stored in the refrigerator.
Over time, the aroma and flavor may fade slightly but it will remain safe to consume. Discard almond extract if it smells or tastes off.
To maximize freshness, store almond extract in an airtight container and keep away from light and heat. Avoid exposing it to moisture which can dilute the flavor.
Homemade Almond Extract
It’s easy to make homemade almond extract if you have some time. This allows you to control the ingredients.
Homemade almond extract just requires two ingredients:
- Almonds – Start with about 1 cup of raw almonds. You can use blanched or unblanched.
- Vodka or brandy – Use 2 cups of a neutral spirit like vodka or brandy.
To make:
- Chop the almonds finely or pulse in a food processor until they are coarsely ground.
- Combine the ground almonds and vodka/brandy in an airtight jar. Screw on the lid tightly.
- Shake the jar daily for 2-3 weeks. This will infuse the vodka with the rich almond flavor.
- After 2-3 weeks of infusing, strain the liquid through a cheesecloth lined sieve to remove the almond solids.
- Pour the infused vodka into a clean bottle or jar. Store in a cool, dry place for up to 1 year.
Be sure to label homemade extract clearly. Vodka is flammable and harmful if consumed directly.
The resulting homemade almond extract will have a superb fresh almond flavor. And just like store bought extract, it will provide all the taste with minimal calories.
Uses for Almond Extract
Almond extract is a versatile ingredient used to add flavor in both sweet and savory recipes. Here are some popular uses:
- Baked goods – Add to cookie dough, cakes, muffins, bread, pie filling.
- Desserts – Use in ice cream, custards, puddings, whipped cream.
- Pancakes and waffles – Add a touch to batter or drizzle on top.
- Smoothies – Blend with yogurt, fruit, juices.
- Coffee – Stir into hot coffee or coffee creamers.
- Milkshakes – Add to milkshakes for a nutty flavor.
- Oatmeal – Stir into oatmeal along with fruit, cinnamon, honey.
- Salads – Whisk with oil and vinegar for salad dressings.
- Chicken and fish – Brush on meat before baking or grilling.
A little almond extract can add big flavor. Start with 1/4 tsp at a time and add more to taste.
Substitutes for Almond Extract
If you don’t have almond extract, there are a few possible substitutions:
- Almond butter – Use 1/4 teaspoon almond butter per 1 teaspoon almond extract. Mix the almond butter with a bit of milk or water before substituting.
- Finely ground almonds – Use 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground almonds for 1 teaspoon almond extract.
- Amaretto liqueur – Substitute 1 teaspoon amaretto liqueur for 1 teaspoon almond extract.
- Almond oil – Use 1/4 teaspoon almond oil for 1 teaspoon almond extract.
In a pinch, you can also make almond extract flavor by mixing 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract with 1/4 teaspoon of a nutty extract like pecan, walnut or hazelnut extract.
While not exactly the same, these substitutions can provide an appropriate almond flavor in recipes. But for the true almond taste, pure almond extract is best.
Conclusion
Almond extract is a zero calorie way to add big almond flavor to foods and beverages. Just 1 teaspoon provides an intense nutty taste with only 5 calories, making it perfect for low calorie diets. A little almond extract goes a long way in recipes.
Look for pure almond extract made from just almond oil to get all the flavor without extra sugar or unnecessary ingredients. Substitute almond extract in place of higher calorie ingredients as a smart way to cut calories while keeping delicious taste.
So next time a recipe calls for almond extract, go ahead and use it without worrying about the calories. Almond extract gives you full rich flavor without the guilt!
