what is almond extract made from

Almond extract is a concentrated liquid made from bitter almond oil, alcohol, and water. It is typically used in baking, similar to vanilla extract, and is known for its strong, slightly fruity flavor. Despite its name, most commercial almond extract is not actually made from almonds but from other stone fruit pits, such as peaches and apricots. This is because these pits are a cheap byproduct of ubiquitous fruits, making them a cost-effective source for almond extract. Pure almond extract is made from almonds or from the pits of stone fruits that have been cold pressed and combined with alcohol and water, while imitation almond extract is made from synthetic materials designed to taste like the flavor extracted from almonds or stone fruits. Its important to note that almond extract made from bitter almonds or apricot seeds does contain amygdalin, which can release cyanide in the human body when hydrolyzed. Therefore, its crucial to use almond extract in moderation and store it properly in a cool, dry place.