🍷 Alcohol & Vinegars

Amaretto Substitute for Cocktails: Complete Guide

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

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Quick Answer

The best amaretto substitutes for cocktails are orgeat syrup, Frangelico, or almond extract with simple syrup. For non-alcoholic cocktails, use orgeat syrup or almond syrup combinations.

Best Substitutes

Orgeat Syrup

1:1

Traditional almond syrup used in tiki drinks and cocktails. Provides authentic almond flavor perfect for cocktail applications.

Best for:

tiki drinksMai TaisAmaretto Sourswhen you want authentic almond flavorclassic cocktails

Slightly thicker than amaretto but similar flavor profile. May need to thin with water for some cocktails. Traditional choice for tiki drinks.

Frangelico

1:1

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

Best for:

Amaretto Sourscoffee cocktailswhen you want nutty flavorchocolate cocktailsdessert drinks

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

Almond Extract + Simple Syrup

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

Pure almond flavor with sweetness to match amaretto's profile. Perfect for when you want authentic almond taste in cocktails.

Best for:

Amaretto Sourscoffee cocktailswhen you want pure almond flavordessert drinks

Mix equal parts sugar and water for simple syrup. Use pure almond extract, not imitation. Provides authentic almond flavor.

Disaronno

1:1

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

Best for:

all cocktail applicationswhen you want identical flavorAmaretto Sourscoffee cocktails

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

Almond Syrup + Vodka

1 oz amaretto = 3/4 oz almond syrup + 1/4 oz vodka

Non-alcoholic almond syrup with vodka for alcohol content. Provides almond flavor with proper alcohol level for cocktails.

Best for:

when you want almond flavorcocktailsmixed drinkswhen orgeat is not available

Adjust vodka amount based on desired alcohol content. Provides almond flavor with alcohol for cocktail applications.

Amaretto Liqueur (Homemade)

1:1

Make your own by steeping almonds in vodka with sugar and vanilla. Provides authentic amaretto flavor for cocktails.

Best for:

all cocktail applicationswhen you want authentic flavorcustom cocktailswhen commercial amaretto is not available

Requires 2-4 weeks to develop full flavor. Use blanched almonds and good quality vodka. Provides authentic amaretto flavor.

Cooking Tips

  • 💡For cocktails, amaretto adds sweetness and almond flavor to mixed drinks and tiki cocktails
  • 💡Use orgeat syrup in tiki drinks for authentic almond flavor and traditional cocktail experience
  • 💡In Amaretto Sours, substitutes work best when shaken with ice for proper dilution and texture
  • 💡For coffee cocktails, amaretto substitutes pair perfectly with coffee liqueur and cream
  • 💡Almond extract combinations work well in shaken cocktails where ingredients are thoroughly mixed
  • 💡For non-alcoholic cocktails, use orgeat syrup or almond syrup combinations for authentic flavor
  • 💡Store cocktail ingredients in the refrigerator for best flavor and consistency
  • 💡Adjust sweetness levels since some substitutes may be sweeter than amaretto

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best amaretto substitute for cocktails?

For cocktails, the best amaretto substitute is orgeat syrup (1:1 ratio) for tiki drinks, or Frangelico for nutty cocktails. Almond extract with simple syrup works well for most cocktail applications.

Can I use orgeat syrup instead of amaretto in cocktails?

Yes, orgeat syrup is an excellent substitute for amaretto in cocktails, especially tiki drinks. Use a 1:1 ratio, though you may need to thin it with water for some cocktails since it's thicker than amaretto.

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

For non-alcoholic cocktails, use orgeat syrup or almond syrup combinations. These provide authentic almond flavor without alcohol content, perfect for mocktails and alcohol-free drinks.

Can I use Frangelico instead of amaretto in cocktails?

Yes, Frangelico works well as an amaretto substitute in cocktails. It provides nutty flavor (hazelnut instead of almond) with similar sweetness and alcohol content. Use a 1:1 ratio.

How do I make an Amaretto Sour without amaretto?

Use orgeat syrup or almond extract with simple syrup as a substitute. Shake with lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white (if using) for the classic Amaretto Sour flavor and texture.

Summary

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