Can I prime with malt extract instead of corn sugar?
Yes, although the results can be less consistent, as malt extract, unlike corn sugar, varies in fermentable sugar content. To prime 5 gallons of beer for bottling with dry malt extract, use 5 ½ oz. by weight, or 1 ¼ cup by volume. Measuring by volume is not very accurate, and can lead to over carbonated beer which can be dangerous. For syrup extract, use 6 ½ oz. by weight. Mix the dry or syrup malt extract with 2 cups of hot water and boil for 5 minutes before stirring into the beer (you do not need to let it cool before adding).
