How to Make Pure Avocado Oil at Home (Cold Process, No Chemicals)
Making your own avocado oil at home is simpler than it looks. With just ripe avocados and a bit of time, you can create fresh, additive-free oil that’s perfect for cooking, skincare, and hair care.
Ingredients
- 5 ripe avocados (Hass avocados are ideal)
- Water (only if needed to help blend)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Avocados
- Cut each avocado in half and remove the pit.
- Scoop out the flesh into a bowl.
- Mash the avocado thoroughly using a fork, potato masher, or blend it into a smooth paste with a blender or food processor.
The smoother the paste, the easier the drying and extraction will be.
2. Dry the Avocado Paste
You can dry the avocado mixture using sunlight or a low oven.
Option A: Sun-Drying Method
- Spread the mashed avocado in an even, thin layer on a baking sheet or dehydrator tray.
- Place the tray in a warm, sunny, well-ventilated spot.
- Allow it to dry for about 2–3 days, stirring once or twice a day to expose any moist areas.
Option B: Oven-Drying Method
- Preheat your oven to about 150°F (65°C).
- Spread the avocado paste in a thin layer over a baking sheet.
- Place the tray in the oven.
- Dry for 4–5 hours, stirring every 30–60 minutes so it dries evenly and doesn’t burn.
You’ll know it’s ready when the paste is dry, crumbly, and dark brown in color.
3. Extract the Avocado Oil
- Transfer the dried avocado paste into a piece of cheesecloth, a nut milk bag, or a fine-mesh strainer.
- Gather the cloth and twist firmly to squeeze out the oil. Press as hard as you can to release as much oil as possible.
- Collect the oil in a clean bowl or jar.
- Allow the oil to sit for a few hours so any tiny particles or water can settle at the bottom.
If you like, you can carefully strain the oil a second time for extra clarity.
4. Store Your Homemade Avocado Oil
- Pour the strained oil into a clean, dry glass bottle or jar, preferably dark-colored to protect it from light.
- Seal tightly with a lid.
- Store in a cool, dark place such as a cupboard or pantry.
For best quality and maximum nutrients, use your DIY avocado oil within 3–6 months.
How to Use Homemade Avocado Oil
Your pure avocado oil is incredibly versatile. Here are some popular ways to use it:
1. For Cooking
- Ideal for salad dressings, marinades, and dips.
- Great for sautéing and light frying due to its relatively high smoke point.
- Drizzle over roasted vegetables, grains, or fish for added flavor and healthy fats.
2. For Hair Care
- Use as a deep-conditioning treatment for dry, damaged, or frizzy hair.
- Warm a small amount between your hands and apply to the mid-lengths and ends.
- Leave on for 20–30 minutes (or overnight with a shower cap), then wash out with shampoo.
3. For Skincare
- Apply a few drops to clean skin as a facial oil to help hydrate and soften.
- Use on dry areas such as elbows, knees, and heels.
- Gently massage onto the skin to support elasticity and a smoother appearance.
4. For Salad Dressings & Toppings
- Whisk with lemon juice or vinegar, salt, and pepper for a simple vinaigrette.
- Combine with herbs, garlic, and mustard for a flavorful dressing.
- Drizzle over fresh vegetables, salads, or grain bowls to boost nutrients and taste.
Making your own avocado oil at home gives you complete control over quality, freshness, and ingredients—just pure, natural oil from real avocados.
