Infusing
Steeping an ingredient such as vanilla, tea, herbs, spices or citrus peel in a warm liquid so it releases its flavor, then straining it out.
- Techniques and preparation methods
Also called: infusion, steeping
Warm cream, milk, syrups and melted butter take on flavor well. Heat the liquid, add the flavoring, cover and steep for 10 to 30 minutes off the heat, then strain. Longer steeping gives stronger flavor, but some ingredients, like tea, turn bitter.
Infused cream is the base of flavored custards, ganache and ice creams.
Bake it at VanillaGoods
Tools for this
Farberware Stainless SaucepanA heavy base heats evenly so dairy and sugar don't scorch.See it on Amazon
Cuisinart Fine Mesh Strainers (3)Strain the base for a perfectly smooth, silky finish.See it on Amazon
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Related entries
Sources
Written by VanillaGoods in our own words from these sources. Last reviewed October 15, 2026.
- Infusing (Q61951), Wikidata