If you’ve ever wanted to try baking with essential oils but weren’t sure how to do it, here are the basics — just in time for the holidays!
Using essential oils in baking gives a true, delicious flavour, unlike dried spices which can lose their potency over time. You can easily convert your favourite recipes to include the amazing flavours — and health benefits — of essential oils!
When should you add essential oils?
For recipes going in the oven, add oils when you would add spices, and add a little bit extra because heat can evaporate the flavour of the oils.
For unbaked items like icing, frosting, ganache, fudge, toffee, caramel or marshmallows, add oils after removing from the heat.
How much should you add?
The amount of essential oil you should add to your recipe will depend on variables like the particular recipe, how many servings you’re making, what kind of oil you’re using, and your personal taste. In most cases, it’s best to start by using the toothpick method and slowly adding more oil to the recipe. Once you have a little experience baking with essential oils, you can better gauge how much oil to add.
Toothpick: Use for strong oils like Cinnamon, Cassia, and Clove. Dip a clean toothpick into the oil and swirl into the mixture. Taste test before adding more.
One drop: For milder oils like Lemon or Lavender, adding one drop to a full recipe is often enough.
Several drops: For large batches or items to be baked in the oven, add your drops to a clean spoon then stir into the mixture to make sure you get the exact amount and don’t accidentally add too much!
Note: If you’re using the oils in the limited time doTERRA Cuisine Blend Collection (the delicious Italian, Mexican, and Tropical blends!), add 5 to 10 drops to sauces, dips, and marinades.
Which flavours work best?
MINTS: Minty, cool, refreshing & sweet.
Examples: Peppermint and Spearmint.
Works well in: Candies, chocolate treats, cocktails, smoothies.
CITRUS: Fresh, sweet & tangy.
Examples: Wild Orange, Lemon, and Tangerine.
Works well in: Icing, frosting, cakes, cookies, pies, cocktails, smoothies.
SPICE: Hot, spicy & sweet.
Examples: Cinnamon, Cassia, Ginger, Clove, and Cardamom.
Works well in: Candies, pies, cookies, cakes, teas, dressings, marinades.
FLORAL: Light, powdery & sweet.
Examples: Rose and Lavender.
Works well in: Icings, frostings, cakes, cookies, teas.
Free holiday recipes!
If you’re ready to give baking with essential oils a try, you can download my free Holiday Treats E-Book! It contains some of my very favourite holiday recipes that incorporate the flavours of essential oils! I’ve got you covered for baked goods, treats, and festive beverages!
Happy baking!!
