Homemade Orgeat Syrup

Instructions

1. Step 1

   Gather the ingredients. Preheat the oven to 400 F.

2. Step 2

   On a rimmed baking sheet , spread the almonds out in a single layer. Toast in the oven for 4 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool for about 5 minutes.

3. Step 3

   In a food processor or chopper, chop the almonds to a fine but still coarse grind (not the sand-like texture of almond flour ).

4. Step 4

   Transfer the ground almonds to a large bowl and cover them with warm water. Let soak for 1 to 3 hours, depending on how strong you would like the almond flavor.

5. Step 5

   Using a fine-mesh strainer and two large layers of cheesecloth, squeeze all of the liquid from the almonds into a deep bowl. The almond pulp should be almost completely dry and you'll have about 1 cup of liquid.

6. Step 6

   In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, gently warm the almond liquid.

7. Step 7

   Whisk in the sugar and continue stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved, about 3 minutes. Remove from the heat.

8. Step 8

   Strain the orgeat syrup through two layers of clean cheesecloth. Stir in the orange flower water and, if using, the brandy or vodka and citric acid.

9. Step 9

   Once the syrup has cooled completely, transfer it to a bottle with a tight-sealing lid.

10. Step 10

    Refrigerate the orgeat syrup and shake before using it in your favorite drinks. Enjoy.