How to Make Homemade Pandan Extract

Here is a guide on how to make homemade Pandan extract. It is easy to make at home. The extract can be kept in a bottle for several weeks and is very useful for baking purposes.

What is Pandan Extract?

Pandan essence is thick sediment of pandan leaf juice extracted from pandan leaf juice and water. The pandan juice is left in the fridge after a day or two, that leaves the sediment at the bottom of the container.

Pandan leaves, also known as screwpine is a tropical plant easily found in Southeast Asia countries. The leaves are sold fresh or dried or even frozen in some countries. (1)

How to Use Pandan Extract

Pandan leaves are very versatile. You can use pandan leaves to make rice, steamed glutinous rice, steamed coconut shreds more fragrant.

If you cook coconut milk with some pandan leaves, the coconut milk will be more fragrant than cooked alone.

The pandan essence is used to make many cakes, ranging from sponge cakes, or traditional cakes like apem (steamed rice cake).

What does Pandan Taste Like?

Pandan essence’s flavor is describes as grassy flavor with hints of rose, almond, and vanilla with a bit of coconut. Its aroma is almost like basmati rice.

Pandan Extract Subsitute

If you can’t find pandan leaves in your area, you may have to look for pandan essence powder or the dried leaves. It is available online. It is easier to keep as it has longer shelf life.

You may want to check Asian grocery store if they sell pandan essence. It’s worth keeping one bottle if you like to bake.

Pandan Leaves Extract Recipe

• 30 pcs pandan leaves
• 15 pcs suji leaves (optional)
• 300 gr water

If you can’t find suji leaves, just change it to pandan leaves, so you need 45 pcs pandan leaves. I add suji leaves because it can help make the pandan extract color darker.

However, you can’t use suji leaves too much. It has a bitter taste if you use too much of it.

Using all pandan leaves is not a problem.

Instructions

1. Wash clean the pandan leaves. Cut into smaller pieces and put them in a blender. Pour in the water in the blender. Blend for a few minutes.

2. Strain the juice. Press the blended leaves tightly until it no longer has water in it.

3. Keep the juice in a container and in a fridge.

4. The next day, you can see some sediment at the bottom. Take a ladle and slowly take the water on top without stirring the sediment.

5. You can do this again the next day. If you keep the juice for 2 days in the fridge, there will be more sediment at the bottom.

6. The pandan sediment is the pandan essence. It should be thick and dark green in color.

7. Keep the pandan essence in a bottle and put in the fridge for several weeks. Shake the bottle before use.

Recipes with Pandan Leaves Juice

I have several recipes with this green pandan paste that you can try:

• Taiwanese Pandan Castella Cake
• Kue Lumpang
• Pandan Cake
• Pull-apart Pandan Bread
• Pandan Milk Bread
• Pandan Serabi
• Pandan Burnt Basque Cheesecake

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How long does homemade pandan extract last?

A: Homemade extract typically lasts between 2 to 4 weeks when refrigerated in an airtight container. The extract’s shelf life can vary based on factors like the freshness of the leaves used, the extraction method, and storage conditions.

Q: Can I freeze pandan extract for extended use?

A: Yes, you can freeze it to extend its shelf life. Pour the extract into ice cube trays and freeze. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe bag or container. The shelf life for the frozen essence is up to 3 months.

Q: Are there any alternatives to pandan leaves if they are not available in my area?

A: While pandan has a unique flavor, in its absence, you might use vanilla or almond extract as a substitute in recipes, although the taste will differ. Another alternative is to buy dried pandan leaves or commercially prepared pandan extract, available at Asian grocery stores or online.

Q: Can pandan extract be used in drinks and cocktails?

A: Absolutely! This green extract adds a unique, aromatic flavor to beverages. It can be used in teas, smoothies, milkshakes, and even in cocktails. Its sweet, grassy flavor complements many ingredients, adding a tropical and aromatic twist to drinks.

Q: Is there a difference in flavor between homemade and store-bought pandan extract?

A: Yes, there is often a noticeable difference in flavor and color between homemade and store-bought essence. Homemade extract usually has a fresher, more vibrant flavor and aroma, as it lacks preservatives and artificial additives found in some commercial products.