Go Back
–+ servings
6 Best Substitutes for Orange Bitters for Classic Cocktails

6 Best Substitutes for Orange Bitters

5 from 1 vote
Use these six substitutes to replace orange bitters by matching aromatic bitterness, citrus oils, or both. Choose based on whether you want herbal depth, citrus brightness, or alcohol-free options.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 7 minutes
Cook Time 6 minutes
Total Time 13 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 0.5 teaspoon Angostura Bitters Use half the amount of orange bitters for a spicier, herbal flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Lemon Bitters Use in equal amounts for a citrusy lemon flavor without orange sweetness.
  • Zest & Angostura Mix Use 1 teaspoon Angostura bitters plus ½ teaspoon fresh orange zest per teaspoon of orange bitters.
  • 0.25 teaspoon Orange Extract Use ¼ teaspoon per teaspoon of orange bitters; add a drop of Angostura if flat.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Celery Bitters Use half the amount; add fresh orange juice for citrus balance if needed.
  • 1 teaspoon Non-Alcoholic Syrup Use equal amounts; suitable for mocktails with sweeter flavor and no alcohol.

Method
 

  1. Choose your substitute based on whether you want herbal depth, citrus brightness, or alcohol-free options.
  2. If using Zest & Angostura Mix, finely grate orange zest and muddle in the shaker or glass before adding other ingredients.
  3. Apply the substitute according to its recommended ratio to orange bitters in your recipe.
  4. For Orange Extract, add a drop of Angostura bitters if the drink tastes flat to add complexity.
  5. Taste-test after adding the substitute and adjust slightly if needed, especially with Celery Bitters and Non-Alcoholic Syrup.

Notes

Add orange zest slowly when using zest mix to avoid overpowering your drink's balance.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!