Orange peel substitutes
Orange peel substitutes — 6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Lemon zest
Same amount as the orange peel
Similar zest with different flavor.
The best substitutes for orange peel are lemon zest, lime zest, or orange extract, depending on the use.
- Verdict —
- Tweak it
- What changes —
- different taste, similar texture
- Best for —
- baking
Updated 26 Jul 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of orange peel | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lemon zestbaking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 2 | Lime zestbaking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Orange extractbaking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 4 | Orange juicebaking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 5 | Orange liqueurbaking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 6 | Candied orange peelbaking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
Lemon zest
different taste, similar texture
Similar zest with different flavor.
- Best for
- baking, cooking, cocktails, desserts
Different flavor, similar texture.
Lime zest
different taste, similar texture
Similar zest with different flavor.
- Best for
- baking, cooking, cocktails, desserts
Different flavor, similar texture.
Orange extract
similar taste, different texture
Similar flavor with different form.
- Best for
- baking, cooking, cocktails, desserts
Different form, similar flavor.
Orange juice
similar taste, different texture
Similar flavor with different form.
- Best for
- baking, cooking, cocktails, desserts
Different form, similar flavor.
Orange liqueur
similar taste, different texture
Similar flavor with different form.
- Best for
- baking, cooking, cocktails, desserts
Different form, similar flavor.
Candied orange peel
similar taste, different texture
Similar peel with different preparation.
- Best for
- baking, cooking, cocktails, desserts
Different preparation, similar flavor.
Questions
4 questionsCan I use lemon zest instead of orange peel?
Yes, lemon zest is a good substitute for orange peel. It has a different flavor but similar texture and can be used in most recipes.
What's the difference between orange peel and lemon zest?
Orange peel has a sweet, citrusy flavor, while lemon zest has a tart, citrusy flavor. Both are citrus zests but have different taste profiles.
Can I use orange extract instead of orange peel?
Yes, orange extract can work as a substitute, though it has a different form. It provides similar flavor and can be used in most recipes.
Why is orange peel so popular in baking?
Orange peel is popular because it adds bright, citrusy flavor and is versatile in many different types of baked goods and desserts.
Tips for substituting orange peel
6 tips- Orange peel adds bright, citrusy flavor to dishes
- Orange peel can be used in both sweet and savory dishes
- Orange peel pairs well with chocolate, vanilla, and warm spices
- Orange peel works well in baking, cooking, and cocktails
- Orange peel can be used to make marmalade and candied peel
- Store orange peel in the refrigerator