🔧 General

Bourbon Substitute for Cooking: Complete Guide

Find the best substitutes for bourbon in cooking recipes. Learn proper ratios, techniques, and tips for perfect dishes without bourbon.

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Quick Answer

The best substitutes for bourbon in cooking are whiskey, brandy, rum, or apple juice with vanilla extract for non-alcoholic options. Use a 1:1 ratio for most recipes.

Best Substitutes

Whiskey (any type)

1:1

Any whiskey can substitute for bourbon in cooking

Best for:

saucesmarinadesglazespan saucesstews

Scotch, Irish whiskey, or Canadian whiskey all work well

Brandy

1:1

Fruit-based spirit with similar complexity

Best for:

saucesglazesdessertspan sauces

Slightly sweeter and fruitier than bourbon

Rum

1:1

Sugarcane-based spirit with similar sweetness

Best for:

glazessaucesmarinadesdesserts

Darker rum works best for closer flavor match

Apple Juice + Vanilla Extract

1:1 + 1/2 tsp vanilla per 1/4 cup

Non-alcoholic substitute for bourbon

Best for:

glazessaucesmarinadesfamily-friendly recipes

Best non-alcoholic option for most recipes

Cognac

1:1

Premium brandy with similar complexity

Best for:

saucesglazespan saucesdesserts

More expensive but very similar flavor profile

Cooking Tips

  • 💡Bourbon is excellent for deglazing pans after searing meat
  • 💡It adds depth to barbecue sauces and glazes
  • 💡Bourbon works well in marinades for chicken, pork, and beef
  • 💡For non-alcoholic cooking, apple juice with vanilla is the best substitute
  • 💡Bourbon's caramel and vanilla notes enhance both sweet and savory dishes
  • 💡Use bourbon in slow-cooked dishes where it has time to mellow
  • 💡Bourbon pairs beautifully with brown sugar, maple syrup, and spices
  • 💡For pan sauces, add bourbon after removing meat, then reduce by half

Frequently Asked Questions