What Is Malt Extract?

Malt extract is a liquid derived from malt, which in turn is derived from the roots of grains like rye or barley. Malt extract serves a number of purposes in cooking.

Identification

Malt extract is a thick, brown-colored liquid that contains sugars and proteins as well as some vitamins and minerals.

Production

To make malt extract, malt is mashed and then ran through an evaporator.

Types

During the production of malt extract, adding different amounts of water or other liquids or using different types of grain like rye or barley produces different types of extract. Different types of malt extract include light, dark, standard, wheat and amber.

Uses

Malt extract is an integral ingredient in brewing beer. It is also used to bake sourdough bread and to make the malted powder used in milkshakes and breakfast cereals.

Sources

Malt extract can be bought online or at brewing or restaurant supply stores. Some people prefer to make their own malt extract, but this requires the purchase of an evaporator, which can cost several hundred dollars.

References

• Encyclopedia Britannica: Malt Extract
• Coopers: Malt Extract
• What Is Malt?