Malt Extract
A dark brown, caramel-sweet syrup made by boiling sprouted barley (malt) in water and thickening its extract. Used in baking, beer production, and some drinks as a natural sweetener and fermentation aid.
What Is Malt Extract?
Malt extract is a syrup made by boiling sprouted (malted) barley in water, then straining and concentrating the extract. During germination, natural enzymes in the barley convert starch into fermentable sugars.
It is dark brown and has a caramel-like, grainy aroma; it is sold as both a syrup and a dried powder. It is malt, a key raw material in beer production, converted into a drinkable syrup.
Nutritional Values of Malt Extract
One hundred grams of malt extract contains about 318 kcal of energy and is high in carbohydrates. Values vary by syrup or powder form and are approximate.
How Should Malt Extract Be Used?
Malt extract is used in moderate amounts as a sweetener and dough ingredient as part of a balanced diet.
This information is general; malt extract is a food and is not a substitute for medical treatment. People with gluten sensitivity should avoid barley-derived malt extract.
How to Choose Malt Extract
Good malt extract is dark brown, has a distinct caramel-like, grainy aroma, and a thick, flowing consistency.
- It should be dark brown, not pale and watery.
- It should have a distinct caramel-like, grainy aroma.
- It should be thick and flowing, not crystallized or sugared.
How to Store Malt Extract
Malt extract can be stored for a long time in its sealed jar in a cool cupboard; its high sugar content also makes it relatively stable at room temperature.
Using Malt Extract in the Kitchen
Malt extract is used most often in bread dough to feed the yeast and darken the crust, added to the boiling water in some bagel recipes, and in beer production.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are malt extract and malt vinegar the same?
No; malt extract is a sweet syrup, while malt vinegar is malt that has been fermented and turned into acetic acid vinegar. They are two different products.
Why is malt extract used in bagel recipes?
When added to the boiling water, it gives the bagel a characteristic shiny, dark crust and a mildly sweet flavor.
Is malt extract available in Türkiye?
It may be available at home-brewing supply shops and some gourmet baking-supply stores, but it is not common.