Non-Alcoholic Bourbon Substitute: Complete Guide
Find the best non-alcoholic substitutes for bourbon in cooking, baking, and cocktails. Learn proper ratios and techniques for alcohol-free recipes.
Quick Answer
The best non-alcoholic substitute for bourbon is apple juice with vanilla extract. Use 1:1 ratio of apple juice to bourbon, plus 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract per 1/4 cup of liquid.
Best Substitutes
Apple Juice + Vanilla Extract
1:1 + 1/2 tsp vanilla per 1/4 cupThe closest non-alcoholic substitute to bourbon
Best for:
Provides sweetness and depth similar to bourbon
Bourbon Extract
1/4 tsp per 1/4 cup liquidConcentrated bourbon flavoring without alcohol
Best for:
Very concentrated - use sparingly
Apple Cider + Vanilla + Brown Sugar
1:1 + 1/2 tsp vanilla + 1 tsp brown sugar per 1/4 cupRich, complex substitute with caramel notes
Best for:
Adds caramel and vanilla complexity
Grape Juice + Vanilla + Molasses
1:1 + 1/2 tsp vanilla + 1/2 tsp molasses per 1/4 cupDeep, rich substitute with complex flavors
Best for:
Provides depth and richness similar to bourbon
Pineapple Juice + Vanilla + Cinnamon
1:1 + 1/2 tsp vanilla + 1/4 tsp cinnamon per 1/4 cupTropical twist on bourbon substitute
Best for:
Adds warmth and spice similar to bourbon
Cooking Tips
- 💡For the most authentic bourbon flavor, use apple juice with vanilla extract
- 💡Bourbon extract is very concentrated - start with less and add more to taste
- 💡When using fruit juices, choose unsweetened varieties to control sweetness
- 💡Add a pinch of salt to non-alcoholic substitutes to enhance flavor
- 💡For baking, the alcohol in bourbon cooks off anyway, so non-alcoholic substitutes work perfectly
- 💡Store homemade bourbon extract in the refrigerator for up to 6 months
- 💡For cocktails, consider using non-alcoholic whiskey alternatives
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best non-alcoholic substitute for bourbon?
Apple juice with vanilla extract is the best non-alcoholic substitute for bourbon. Use a 1:1 ratio of apple juice to bourbon, plus 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract per 1/4 cup of liquid.
Can I use bourbon extract instead of bourbon?
Yes, bourbon extract is a great non-alcoholic substitute. Use 1/4 teaspoon per 1/4 cup of liquid. It's very concentrated, so start with less and add more to taste.
What can I substitute for bourbon in baking?
For baking, apple juice with vanilla extract works perfectly as a non-alcoholic substitute. The alcohol in bourbon cooks off during baking anyway, so non-alcoholic substitutes work just as well.
How do I make a non-alcoholic bourbon substitute?
Mix apple juice with vanilla extract at a 1:1 ratio to bourbon, plus 1/2 teaspoon vanilla per 1/4 cup. For more complexity, add brown sugar or molasses.
Can I use apple cider instead of bourbon?
Yes, apple cider with vanilla extract and brown sugar makes an excellent non-alcoholic bourbon substitute. It provides the sweetness and depth similar to bourbon.
What's a good non-alcoholic substitute for bourbon in cocktails?
For cocktails, use non-alcoholic whiskey alternatives or apple juice with vanilla extract. You can also find non-alcoholic bourbon products specifically designed for cocktails.