How to make homemade mayonnaise: an easy recipe

What is mayonnaise?

Mayonnaise is a creamy, tangy condiment that has become an essential part of many popular dishes worldwide. Not only is it present in salads and sandwiches, but also homemade sauces, dips and desserts.

Mayonnaise begins with a base of egg yolks, salt, mustard, lemon juice and oil. It gets its creamy texture from the oil whipped together slowly with the egg yolk until it forms an opaque emulsion. As for its flavorings, you can incorporate herbs or spices for a bite or mustard for extra zing.

What is the essential ingredient in making mayonnaise?

Whipping up a homemade spread of creamy, tangy mayonnaise relies on the right combination of ingredients. It all begins with an essential component: oil. Oil acts as the base that helps thicken and emulsify the mixture while also creating its signature texture and mouthfeel.

Opt for a neutral-oil like vegetable or canola oil, and consider adding a pinch of salt to help balance out the acidity from various other ingredients, like the lemon juice and vinegar.

Homemade mayonnaise recipe

Making homemade mayonnaise is simple and requires very few ingredients. If you own a KitchenAid^® blender, hand blender or a food processor, you can use any one of these appliances.

Read on to learn a basic recipe for homemade mayonnaise that you can use to add a burst of flavor and texture to sandwiches, dips, salads and more.

Yields

1 cup

Ingredients

• 1 egg

• 1 cup neutral oil, such as canola or vegetable

• 4 teaspoons fresh lemon juice or apple cider vinegar

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon pepper (if desired)

Tools

• KitchenAid^® blender, hand blender or food processor

• Plastic spatula

Prep time

2 minutes

Total time

7 minutes

Homemade blender mayonnaise

Follow these tips for making homemade mayonnaise in a KitchenAid^® blender.

Step 1: Prep the blender jar

Place the room-temperature ingredients (except the oil) into the blender jar in the order listed above. Secure the lid and remove the center lid cap, or drizzle basin if equipped, before starting to blend.

Step 2: Combine the ingredients

Blend the ingredients on high for 30 to 60 seconds. If necessary, stop the blender and scrape the sides of the jar to ensure the ingredients are completely smooth and combined. While the blender is still running, drizzle the oil very slowly into the mixture until creamy.

Making homemade mayo with a hand blender is a simple and easy alternative to a high-speed blender if you don’t have one on hand. In a large bowl, combine all of the ingredients except the oil and blend on high for 30 to 60 seconds. Drizzle the oil into the mixture in a slow stream while blending until fully incorporated.

Homemade food processor mayonnaise

A food processor is also a great way to make homemade mayonnaise. Follow these steps for making homemade mayonnaise in a KitchenAid^® food processor.

Step 1: Set the blade and work bowl

Attach the multi-purpose blade inside the food processor work bowl.

Step 2: Mix initial ingredients

Add room temperature egg yolks, salt, mustard and lemon juice in any order you wish to the work bowl, then attach the lid with the drizzle basin or small feed tube in place, depending on your model. Process on high until smooth, about 10 seconds.

Step 3: Add the oil

Switch the food processor to low, then very slowly drizzle the oil through the small feed tube or drizzle basin. You may need to pause pouring oil from time to time if using the drizzle basin and allow the oil level to come down. Continue processing until all oil has been added and the mayonnaise has emulsified, becoming a thick and consistent mixture. This may take around 4-5 minutes.

If you are using a KitchenAid^® 5 Cup Food Processor, you can use the included whisk accessory and the Pulse setting to help quickly emulsify a smaller portion of homemade mayo.

Which oil is best for mayonnaise?

Creating the perfect flavor and texture requires an oil that will combine well with egg yolks and other ingredients. The best oil for homemade mayonnaise depends on individual tastes and preferences, but some of the most common oils used include safflower, canola, grapeseed and peanut oil.

You can add olive oil at the end for a richer olive oil taste, but the mayonnaise may taste bitter if you use only olive oil in the recipe.

Do I have to use raw eggs to make mayonnaise?

Yes, raw eggs are essential for making homemade mayonnaise. The proteins and fat in the egg yolks help to create an emulsion when whisked together with oil.

If you're concerned about using raw eggs, opt for a recipe involving pasteurized eggs or vegan alternatives, such as soaked cashews.

Can I fix “broken” mayonnaise?

Sometimes, when making homemade mayonnaise it can “break” and separate. This means the oil has separated from the other ingredients into two distinct layers. To fix it, add a fresh yolk to the broken mayo to re-emulsify the mixture.

To reduce the chances of having your mayonnaise break, make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature and add oil in a very slow stream while processing or blending after the other ingredients are well-combined.

What can I make with homemade mayonnaise?

Homemade mayonnaise can be used to make a variety of dishes, from sandwiches and salads to dips and sauces. Create a bright macaroni salad or add homemade spicy mayo to your own customized sushi rolls — the condiment adds flavor and texture as well as moisture, making every bite creamy and delicious.

You can also use it in dressings for tacos and burritos, or add it to sauces coupled with grilled vegetables or sautéed greens for a pop of flavor. Experiment with this incredibly versatile ingredient to elevate your next dish.

How long does homemade mayonnaise last?

Homemade mayonnaise can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator. Once you have made it, store the mayonnaise in an airtight container or mason jar and always ensure you use a clean spoon each time you serve.

Can I freeze homemade mayonnaise?

While you may be able to store homemade mayonnaise in the freezer, doing so may alter the texture of the condiment. If you have leftovers from a previous batch, opt to refrigerate the condiment and use it within two weeks.

Homemade mayonnaise alternatives

For a creamy and delicious dip, try mixing together homemade mayo with greek yogurt and spices. Adding a variety of herbs, like parsley and cilantro, as well as different spices such as chipotle chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder will make the perfect dip for spiralized sweet potato fries.

You can also create your own unique flavor combos by experimenting with different ingredients. For a delicious vegan version, incorporate cashews and fresh herbs to enjoy on a light layered salad.