Out of Bourbon, one case
Non-alcoholic bourbon substitute
5 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Apple juice + vanilla extract
Same amount as the bourbon
Plus ½ tsp vanilla per ¼ cup
The best non-alcoholic substitute for bourbon is apple juice with vanilla extract. Use 1:1 ratio of apple juice to bourbon, plus ½ teaspoon vanilla extract per ¼ cup of liquid.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- baking
One casethe full bourbon card
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of bourbon | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Apple juice + vanilla extractbaking | Same amountPlus ½ tsp vanilla per ¼ cupWorks | Works |
| 2 | Bourbon extractbaking | ¼ tsp per ¼ cup liquid | No verdict on record |
| 3 | Apple cider + vanilla + brown sugarsauces | Same amountPlus ½ tsp vanilla + 1 tsp brown sugar per ¼ cupWorks | Works |
| 4 | Grape juice + vanilla + molassessauces | Same amountPlus ½ tsp vanilla + ½ tsp molasses per ¼ cupTweak it | Tweak it |
| 5 | Pineapple juice + vanilla + cinnamondesserts | Same amountPlus ½ tsp vanilla + ¼ tsp cinnamon per ¼ cupTweak it | Tweak it |
Apple juice + vanilla extract
similar taste and texture
The closest non-alcoholic substitute to bourbon
- Best for
- baking, desserts, sauces, glazes, marinades
Provides sweetness and depth similar to bourbon.
Bourbon extract
very similar · different texture
Concentrated bourbon flavoring without alcohol
- Best for
- baking, desserts, frostings, ice cream
Very concentrated - use sparingly.
Apple cider + vanilla + brown sugar
similar taste and texture
Rich, complex substitute with caramel notes
- Best for
- sauces, glazes, marinades, baking
Adds caramel and vanilla complexity.
Grape juice + vanilla + molasses
different taste, similar texture
Deep, rich substitute with complex flavors
- Best for
- sauces, glazes, baking, desserts
Provides depth and richness similar to bourbon.
Pineapple juice + vanilla + cinnamon
different taste, similar texture
Tropical twist on bourbon substitute
- Best for
- desserts, baking, glazes, sauces
Adds warmth and spice similar to bourbon.
The longer answer
About this case
Whether you're cooking for someone who doesn't drink alcohol, preparing family-friendly meals, or simply want to avoid alcohol in your recipes, these non-alcoholic bourbon substitutes will give you the flavor and depth you're looking for without the alcohol content.
Tips for substituting bourbon
7 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 well
- Store homemade bourbon extract in the refrigerator for up to 6 months
- For cocktails, consider using non-alcoholic whiskey alternatives
Questions
6 questionsWhat'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 ½ teaspoon vanilla extract per ¼ cup of liquid.
Can I use bourbon extract instead of bourbon?
Yes, bourbon extract is a great non-alcoholic substitute. Use ¼ teaspoon per ¼ 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 well 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 ½ teaspoon vanilla per ¼ 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.