How to Make Homemade Orgeat

How to Make Homemade Orgeat: The Perfect Almond Syrup for Cocktails

Orgeat is a must-have ingredient for classic tiki cocktails like the Mai Tai and Japanese Cocktail. This rich, almond-based syrup adds a nutty sweetness and floral aroma to your drinks. While store-bought versions are convenient, making homemade orgeat allows you to control the flavor, freshness, and quality. This guide will walk you through the best method for making orgeat from scratch!

Why Make Your Own Orgeat?

• Better Flavor – Homemade orgeat is richer and more flavorful than store-bought versions.
• Customizable – Adjust sweetness and nut intensity to your taste.
• Natural Ingredients – No artificial preservatives or additives.
• Versatile – Perfect for cocktails, coffee, and desserts.

Ingredients for Homemade Orgeat (Makes ~1.5L)

• 500g almonds (toasted for deeper flavor)
• 800g sugar
• 800g water
• 2 tbsp orange flower water
• 100mL vodka, brandy, or rum (optional, for preservation)

Step-by-Step Orgeat Recipe

1. Make a Sugar Syrup

Combine equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan over low heat, stirring until dissolved. Avoid boiling.

2. Toast the Almonds

Toasting enhances the flavor and creates a darker, richer orgeat. Spread almonds on a baking sheet and toast at 180°C (350°F) for 10-12 minutes until golden brown.

3. Crush the Almonds

Once cooled, crush the almonds using a rolling pin or pulse them in a blender. Aim for a coarse texture—not a fine powder.

4. Infuse the Sugar Syrup

Add the crushed almonds to the warm sugar syrup. Keep over low heat and stir occasionally. Do not let it boil.

5. Let It Simmer

Allow the mixture to infuse for at least 15 minutes, extracting the almond oils for a deeper flavor.

6. Strain the Syrup

Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve for a rustic texture or use a cheesecloth for a smoother syrup. Squeeze the cheesecloth to extract all the flavorful almond oils.

7. Add Final Ingredients

Stir in orange flower water and the optional alcohol for preservation.

8. Bottle and Store

Pour into a clean glass bottle and store in the fridge. Lasts up to 2 weeks without alcohol, or up to 1 month with alcohol.

Best Cocktails to Use Orgeat In

• Mai Tai – The ultimate tiki cocktail with rum, lime, and orgeat.
• Japanese Cocktail – A brandy-based classic with orgeat and bitters.
• Orgeat Coffee – Adds a nutty sweetness to espresso or cold brew.
• Almond Old Fashioned – A twist on the classic whiskey cocktail.

Final Thoughts

Making homemade orgeat is simple and rewarding, adding a natural almond flavor to your favorite cocktails and drinks. Whether you're a home bartender or just love crafting your own syrups, this recipe is a game-changer.

What’s your favorite cocktail to use orgeat in? Let us know in the comments!