Things You'll Need

Instructions

1

Harvest your stevia in the morning when the essential oils peak. You must use stevia grown without pesticides, as the extract-making process concentrates undesirable chemicals. Wash the leaves and stems and remove any brown plant parts.
2

Chop the leaves and stems coarsely. You must prepare enough fresh stevia to fill two lightly packed measuring cups.
3

Combine the stevia with one cup of clear grain alcohol or vodka. You can use flavor-infused vodkas for variety, such as pear or citrus.
4

Leave the stevia mixture steeping overnight in a covered container, but not more than 48 hours. Excessive steeping increases bitterness. Stir or gently shake the mixture several times while it steeps.
5

Strain the alcohol and stevia mixture through cheesecloth or coffee filter to remove the plant matter. The mixture should appear greenish.
6

Bring the stevia extract to a simmer over medium-low heat for 30 minutes. This evaporates the alcohol and concentrates the extract.
7

Store the extract in the refrigerator up to three months. You must dilute the extract to taste before using with water.