🍷 Alcohol & Vinegars

Amaretto Substitute for Baking: Complete Guide

Find the best amaretto substitutes for baking. Learn proper ratios, techniques, and tips for perfect baked goods without amaretto.

✓

Quick Answer

The best amaretto substitutes for baking are almond extract with simple syrup (1:1 ratio), orgeat syrup, or Frangelico. For non-alcoholic baking, use almond extract with vanilla extract and a touch of almond syrup.

Best Substitutes

Almond Extract + Simple Syrup

1 oz amaretto = 1/4 tsp almond extract + 1 oz simple syrup

Perfect combination for baking that provides authentic almond flavor with the right sweetness. Most commonly used substitute in baked goods.

Best for:

cakescookiesmuffinsbreadsfrostingswhen you want authentic almond flavor

Mix equal parts sugar and water for simple syrup. Use pure almond extract, not imitation. This combination works in almost any baked good.

Orgeat Syrup

1:1

Sweet almond syrup that provides similar flavor and sweetness to amaretto. Slightly thicker but works well in most baking applications.

Best for:

cakescookiesmuffinswhen you want authentic almond flavorfrostings

May need to reduce other liquids slightly due to thickness. Provides authentic almond flavor perfect for baking.

Frangelico

1:1

Hazelnut liqueur with similar sweetness and alcohol content. Provides nutty flavor that works well in many baked goods.

Best for:

cakescookiesmuffinswhen you want nutty flavorchocolate desserts

Hazelnut instead of almond flavor, but similar sweetness. Works especially well with chocolate and coffee flavors in baking.

Almond Syrup + Vanilla Extract

1 oz amaretto = 3/4 oz almond syrup + 1/4 tsp vanilla extract

Non-alcoholic combination perfect for family baking. Provides sweet almond flavor without alcohol content.

Best for:

family bakingnon-alcoholic recipescakescookieswhen alcohol is not desired

No alcohol content, so no need to adjust baking time. May be sweeter than amaretto, so reduce sugar slightly.

Ground Almonds + Sugar + Vanilla

1 oz amaretto = 2 tbsp ground almonds + 1 tbsp sugar + 1/2 tsp vanilla

Natural combination that adds both flavor and texture to baked goods. Perfect for when you want authentic almond presence.

Best for:

cakescookiesmuffinswhen you want texture and flavornutty baked goods

Adds texture to baked goods. Use blanched almonds for best results. May need to adjust liquid content slightly.

Disaronno

1:1

Another brand of amaretto liqueur with virtually identical flavor profile. Perfect substitute for any baking application.

Best for:

all baking applicationswhen you want identical flavorcakescookiesmuffins

Essentially the same as amaretto, just a different brand. Perfect 1:1 substitute for any baking recipe.

Cooking Tips

  • 💡For baking, amaretto adds sweetness and almond flavor to cakes, cookies, and pastries
  • 💡Add amaretto substitutes to the creamed butter and sugar mixture for even distribution in cookies
  • 💡In cakes, add amaretto substitutes with other liquid ingredients for best flavor incorporation
  • 💡For frostings, add amaretto substitutes gradually and taste as you go to avoid overpowering
  • 💡Amaretto substitutes work especially well in Italian desserts like tiramisu and cannoli
  • 💡Pair amaretto substitutes with chocolate, coffee, and vanilla flavors in baking
  • 💡For non-alcoholic baking, use almond extract combinations to maintain authentic flavor
  • 💡Store baked goods with amaretto substitutes in airtight containers to preserve flavor

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best amaretto substitute for baking?

For baking, the best amaretto substitute is almond extract with simple syrup (1/4 tsp extract + 1 oz syrup per 1 oz amaretto). This provides authentic almond flavor with the right sweetness for baked goods.

Can I use almond extract instead of amaretto in baking?

Yes, but you'll need to add sweetness since amaretto contains sugar. Mix 1/4 teaspoon almond extract with 1 ounce simple syrup for every ounce of amaretto needed in your baking recipe.

What's a good non-alcoholic amaretto substitute for baking?

For non-alcoholic baking, use almond syrup with vanilla extract (3/4 oz almond syrup + 1/4 tsp vanilla per 1 oz amaretto). This provides sweet almond flavor without alcohol content.

Can I use orgeat syrup instead of amaretto in baking?

Yes, orgeat syrup works well as an amaretto substitute in baking. Use a 1:1 ratio, but you may need to reduce other liquids slightly since orgeat is thicker than amaretto.

How much almond extract should I use to substitute amaretto in baking?

Use 1/4 teaspoon almond extract plus 1 ounce simple syrup for every 1 ounce of amaretto called for in your baking recipe. This provides the right balance of almond flavor and sweetness.

Summary

Find the best amaretto substitutes for baking. Learn proper ratios, techniques, and tips for perfect baked goods without amaretto.