Out of Bitters, one case
Bitters substitutes for cocktails
5 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Angostura bitters
Same amount as the bitters
For cocktails, the best bitters substitutes are Angostura Bitters (1:1), Orange Bitters (1:1), or Peychaud's Bitters (1:1). Each provides complexity and balance to various cocktail recipes.
- Best for —
- cocktails
One casethe full bitters card
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of bitters |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Angostura bitterscocktails | Same amount |
| 2 | Orange bitterscocktails | Same amount |
| 3 | Peychaud's bitterscocktails | Same amount |
| 4 | Homemade aromatic bitterscocktails | Same amount |
| 5 | Fee brothers aromatic bitterscocktails | Same amountWorks |
Angostura bitters
herbal · similar texture
Aromatic bitters with herbal flavor profile. Good substitute for bitters in most cocktails as it provides complexity and balance.
- Best for
- cocktails, when you want herbal flavor, Old Fashioned, Manhattan, most applications
Angostura bitters are the most versatile choice for cocktails. They provide herbal complexity that complements most spirits.
Orange bitters
citrusy · similar texture
Aromatic bitters with citrusy flavor profile. Good substitute for bitters in cocktails when you want citrus notes.
- Best for
- cocktails, when you want citrus flavor, Old Fashioned, Manhattan, most applications
Orange bitters add citrusy complexity to cocktails. They work well with whiskey, gin, and other spirits.
Peychaud's bitters
anise · similar texture
Aromatic bitters with anise and cherry flavor profile. Good substitute for bitters in cocktails when you want anise notes.
- Best for
- cocktails, when you want anise flavor, Sazerac, most applications
Peychaud's bitters add anise complexity to cocktails. They work well with whiskey and provide a unique flavor profile.
Homemade aromatic bitters
customizable · similar texture
DIY bitters made with herbs, spices, and alcohol. Good substitute for bitters in cocktails when you want to customize flavor.
- Best for
- cocktails, when you want custom flavor, most applications
Homemade aromatic bitters can be customized to match traditional bitters' flavor profile. Use herbs like gentian, cinchona, and spices.
Fee brothers aromatic bitters
similar taste and texture
Commercial aromatic bitters with similar flavor profile. Good substitute for bitters in cocktails.
- Best for
- cocktails, when you want similar flavor, most applications
Fee Brothers aromatic bitters have a similar flavor to traditional bitters but may be slightly different in intensity and complexity.
How it behaves in this recipe
For cocktails, bitters substitutes must provide complexity and balance to complement the spirits, sweeteners, and other ingredients. The recommended substitutes work because they can provide similar functionality while offering different flavor profiles that enhance various cocktail recipes.
Tips for substituting bitters
7 tips- Bitters are essential for cocktails as they provide complexity and balance
- Use 2-3 dashes of bitters for most cocktails
- Bitters work well with whiskey, gin, rum, and other spirits
- Store bitters in a cool, dark place to maintain flavor
- Use bitters to enhance the flavor of other cocktails and dishes
- Add bitters to marinades and sauces for depth of flavor
- Experiment with different bitters to find your preferred flavor profile
Notes on bitters
- Use Angostura bitters for traditional herbal flavor
- Use orange bitters for citrusy complexity
- Use Peychaud's bitters for anise-forward flavor
- Use homemade aromatic bitters for custom flavor
Questions
5 questionsWhat's the best bitters substitute for cocktails?
Angostura bitters are the most versatile choice for cocktails. Orange bitters or Peychaud's bitters also work well for different flavor profiles.
Can I use orange bitters in cocktails?
Yes, orange bitters work well in cocktails. They add citrusy complexity that complements whiskey, gin, and other spirits.
Why are bitters important in cocktails?
Bitters are important in cocktails because they provide complexity and balance to the spirits, sweeteners, and other ingredients.
Can I make cocktails without bitters?
While bitters are traditional in many cocktails, you can make versions without them. However, they will lack the complexity and balance that bitters provide.
How much bitters should I use in cocktails?
Use 2-3 dashes of bitters for most cocktails. Adjust to taste based on your preference and the strength of the bitters.