How to Make All Natural Homemade Food Coloring Recipe

Creating vibrant, all-natural food coloring at home is easier than you think, and the results are stunning. In just 25 minutes, you can transform everyday ingredients like beets, spinach, and turmeric into a rainbow of rich, bold hues.

These homemade colors not only look beautiful but also add subtle, earthy flavors to your baked goods and dishes. Say goodbye to artificial dyes and hello to a healthier, more creative way to decorate your culinary creations.

Each shade is crafted with care, offering smooth, velvety textures that blend seamlessly into batters and frostings. The process is quick—20 minutes of prep and a brief 5-minute cook time—making it perfect for busy bakers.

With these natural colors, your desserts will not only taste amazing but also feel wholesome and vibrant, just like nature intended.

Ingredients for All Natural Homemade Food Coloring

• Pink Food Coloring:
  • 1/4 cup (60 g) cooked beets (canned or fresh)
  • ½ cup (4 oz / 115 g) beet juice (from can or cooking liquid)
• Yellow Food Coloring:
  • ½ cup (4 oz / 115 g) water
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• Purple Food Coloring:
  • ½ cup (4 oz / 115 g) blueberries (fresh or frozen; if frozen, thaw first)
  • ⅓ cup (3 oz / 90 g) water
• Green Food Coloring:
  • 1 cup (1 oz / 30 g) spinach (fresh or frozen; if frozen, thaw and drain)
  • ½ cup (4 oz / 115 g) water

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Pink Food Coloring:
   1. In a blender or food processor, blend the beets and beet juice until smooth.
   2. Pass the mixture through a sieve to remove the beets, saving the liquid as your food coloring.
   3. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 6 weeks.
2. Yellow Food Coloring:
   1. In a small saucepan, simmer the water and turmeric for 2-3 minutes.
   2. Allow the mixture to cool completely.
   3. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 6 weeks. (Note: Turmeric can stain, so use a container you don’t mind turning yellow.)
3. Purple Food Coloring:
   1. In a blender or food processor, blend the blueberries and water until smooth.
   2. Pass the mixture through a sieve to remove the skins and pulp, leaving only the purple liquid.
   3. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 6 weeks.
4. Green Food Coloring:
   1. If using fresh spinach, simmer it with water in a small saucepan for 2-3 minutes. (Do not cover, as this can dull the green color.) If using frozen spinach, skip this step.
   2. Blend the spinach and water in a blender or food processor until completely smooth.
   3. Pass the mixture through a sieve to remove the leaves.
   4. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 6 weeks.
5. Usage: Add your homemade food coloring to icings, frostings, or batter as needed. Adjust the amount for desired intensity.

Creative Ways to Use Your Homemade Food Coloring

Add a pop of natural color to your favorite recipes! Use your pink beet coloring for vibrant cupcakes or macarons, or mix the yellow turmeric liquid into pancake batter for sunny breakfast treats.

The purple blueberry dye is perfect for royal icing or smoothie bowls, while the green spinach coloring can brighten up frosting or homemade pasta dough. Experiment with blending colors to create unique shades!

Storage Tips for Long-Lasting Color

To keep your food coloring fresh, store each color in an airtight glass jar or bottle in the refrigerator. Label each container clearly to avoid mix-ups. If you notice any changes in smell or texture, discard the coloring. For longer storage, freeze small portions in ice cube trays and thaw as needed.

Time-Saving Hacks for Busy Bakers

Prep your ingredients in advance to save time! Cook and puree beets or spinach ahead of time, and freeze them in measured portions. Use frozen blueberries for the purple coloring—they’re just as vibrant and require no prep. Keep ground turmeric on hand for quick yellow coloring without peeling or chopping fresh turmeric root.

Common Questions Answered

Will the colors fade when baked? Natural colors may soften slightly but will still add a lovely hue. For deeper shades, add a bit more coloring to your batter or frosting. Can I use these for savory dishes? Absolutely! Try the green spinach coloring in mashed potatoes or the yellow turmeric liquid in rice for a fun twist.

Special Notes for Mess-Free Coloring

Turmeric can stain surfaces, so use a dedicated spoon and bowl for the yellow coloring. When straining liquids, line your sieve with cheesecloth for a smoother result. For easy cleanup, rinse your blender or food processor immediately after use to prevent staining.