What's the Best Substitute for Prosecco?
Whether you're out of Prosecco or looking for a healthier alternative, finding the right substitute can save your recipe. Italian sparkling wine with light, fruity flavors and crisp acidity, commonly used in cocktails and cooking In this guide, we'll explore the best substitutes that work in most recipes and help you achieve similar results.
Quick Answer
The best substitutes for prosecco are champagne, cava, or sparkling wine using a 1:1 ratio.
Best Substitutes for Prosecco
Champagne
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- cocktails
- cooking
- celebrations
- mimosas
Description
French sparkling wine with similar effervescence and acidity. More expensive but higher quality than prosecco.
Champagne is typically drier and more complex than prosecco
Cava
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- cocktails
- cooking
- everyday use
- mimosas
Description
Spanish sparkling wine with similar characteristics to prosecco. Often more affordable with good quality.
Cava is typically drier than prosecco but has similar effervescence
Sparkling Wine
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- cocktails
- cooking
- general use
Description
Generic sparkling wine that can substitute for prosecco in most applications. Choose dry or extra dry varieties.
Look for dry or extra dry sparkling wine for best results
White Wine + Club Soda
Ratio
3:1 (3 parts wine to 1 part club soda)
Best For
- cooking
- non-alcoholic cocktails
- general use
Description
Non-sparkling alternative that mimics prosecco's effervescence. Use dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
Add club soda just before serving to maintain effervescence
Ginger Ale
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- mocktails
- non-alcoholic cooking
- general use
Description
Non-alcoholic alternative with similar effervescence and slight sweetness. Good for mocktails and non-alcoholic cooking.
Ginger ale adds a slight ginger flavor that may not be desired in all applications
How to Choose the Right Substitute
When choosing a substitute for Prosecco, consider the recipe's requirements for taste, texture, and cooking method. Think about whether you need something that mimics the original exactly or if a different but complementary flavor would work. Also consider dietary restrictions and availability of ingredients.
Cooking Tips
Prosecco is best used in dishes where you want to add acidity and lightness
Add prosecco near the end of cooking to preserve its effervescence and flavor
Prosecco pairs well with seafood, light pasta dishes, and risottos
Use prosecco in cocktails like Aperol Spritz or Bellini
Store prosecco in the refrigerator and serve chilled
Prosecco is excellent for deglazing pans and creating light, flavorful sauces
Use prosecco in desserts like sorbets or fruit-based desserts
Always taste and adjust seasonings when using substitutes
Consider the cooking method - some substitutes work better in certain applications