Looking for a delicious Bourbon substitute for cooking?
I know that you love the taste of Bourbon in your recipes, but what do you do when it’s out of stock? Never fear; we have some amazing substitutes that will make your food just as delicious.
Not only are my substitutes great-tasting, but they’re also versatile and can be used in a variety of recipes. Also, the non-alcoholic alternatives are just as delicious and perfect for cooking. You won’t even be able to tell the difference!
You’ll be able to enjoy your favorite dishes without having to miss out on the flavor of Bourbon.
What is Bourbon whiskey?
Bourbon whiskey is a type of American Whiskey that’s made from at least 51% corn and aged in new, charred oak barrels. To be labeled as Bourbon whiskey, it must be distilled to no more than 80% ABV (160 proof) and entered into the barrel at no more than 62.5% ABV (125 proof).
Bourbon is versatile and used for many types of cocktails, including the Manhattan, Old Fashioned, and Mint Julep, also in recipes including pancakes, chicken marinades, and sauces, like the Southern Champagne and Bourbon Egg Nog, and as a base for iced tea and iced coffee.
What liquor is similar to Bourbon?
Bourbon is an American Whiskey that is often produced from corn. Scotch, or corn whiskey, is comparable to Bourbon whiskey.
What to use instead of Bourbon in Different Recipes?
Bourbon is a famous American whiskey and uses in different recipes like Bourbon chicken, Cocktails, Pumpkin pie, Chocolate cake, a variety of confections, etc.
If you don’t have Bourbon, consider the following alternatives: Brandy, Amarula, Rum, Whiskey, Scotch, Cognac, Dark Beer, Ginger Extract, Almond Extract, Vanilla Extract, Fruit juices, Fruit-based cocktails, ACV with sugar and peach nectar, and Bourbon extract for non-alcoholic alternatives.
See, there are tons of options to make your recipe more special. No move forward to details of these all substitutes used place of Bourbon.
15 Best Bourbon Substitutes for Cooking
1. BRANDY – Perfect Choice for Substituting Bourbon
Brandy is always the first choice to replace Bourbon, from cooking to cocktails. Brandy is a type of distilled wine that is made from grapes. It has a strong, fruity flavor that can be a good substitute for Bourbon in recipes.
Brandy is also a good choice if you are looking for a less expensive option. You can brandy into cocktails or use it in cooking, including sauces, glazes, and marinades.
Check More- Best Non-Alcoholic Substitute for Brandy
2. AMARULA
Amarula is a African cream liqueur. It has sugar, Marula juice, and cream- it is excellent for making any dessert or cocktail.
When it comes to cooking with Amarula, there are a few things to keep in mind.
· First, since it is a liqueur, it is quite sweet. This means that you will want to use it in recipes that call for other sweet ingredients, like fruits or chocolate.
· Second, since it is made with cream, it can be a bit heavy. This means that you may want to use it in recipes that also include other rich ingredients, like cream cheese or eggs.
Here are some ideas for recipes that would be delicious with Amarula substituted for Bourbon:
Amarula Chocolate Cake: Replace the Bourbon in your favorite chocolate cake recipe with Amarula. The result will be a rich, moist cake with a hint of sweetness from the liqueur.
Amarula Fruit Salad: Use Amarula in place of the syrup or alcohol in your favorite fruit salad recipe. The result will be a refreshing, sweet salad that is perfect for a summer party.
Amarula Cream Cheese Frosting: Use Amarula in place of the Bourbon in your favorite cream cheese frosting recipe. The result will be a rich, sweet frosting perfect for decorating cakes or cupcakes.
Amarula Tiramisu: Replace the coffee liqueur in your tiramisu recipe with Amarula. The result will be a creamy, sweet dessert that is perfect for impressing your guests.
As you can see, there are many ways to use Amarula in place of Bourbon in your cooking. So, next time you are looking for a way to add a bit of sweetness to your recipes, consider using this delicious liqueur. Your guests will be sure to thank you!
3. RUM- Great Substitute for Bourbon in Baking and Cooking
Rum is another good alternative option for Bourbon. So, when it comes to cooking, you can substitute rum for Bourbon by using an equal amount of liquor.
Just be aware that the flavor of your dish will be slightly different since rum is sweeter than Bourbon. If you’re looking to add a bit more depth of flavor to your dish, consider using a dark rum instead of a light one.
One of the most popular ways to use rum is in cocktails. Rum can be used in various cocktails, from simple mixed drinks to more complex concoctions. Whether you are looking for a refreshing summertime drink or a festive holiday cocktail, rum is a versatile spirit that can be used in a variety of ways.
In addition to cocktails, rum can also be used in cooking. Rum can be utilized as a marinade for meats or added to sauces and soups for an extra depth of flavor. Rum can also be used in baking, either as a flavoring for cakes and cookies or added to the batter of cakes and quick bread.
Read More- 10+ Ideal Rum Extract Substitutes including Non-Alcoholic Alternative Too
4. WHISKEY
You can substitute Whiskey for Bourbon in cooking; keep in mind that the flavors will be different.
Whiskey is generally more intense, so you may want to use a little less than the recipe calls for. On the other hand, Bourbon is typically sweeter and mellower, so you may want to add a bit more to the taste.
Whiskey can be used in a number of ways in cooking, from deglazing a pan to making a simple salad dressing.
It can also be used in desserts or mixed into cocktails when cooking with Whiskey.
Here are some ideas for using Whiskey in the kitchen:
-Deglaze a pan: When you deglaze a pan with Whiskey, you add a depth of flavor to whatever dish you are making. To deglaze a pan, simply add a shot of Whiskey to a hot pan and scrape up the brown bits that have formed on the bottom. This will add richness to whatever you are cooking.
-Make a salad dressing: A simple salad dressing can be made by whisking together Whiskey, olive oil, vinegar, and salt and pepper. This dressing will add a nice smoky flavor to any salad.
-Use in desserts: Whiskey can be used in many desserts, from cakes and cookies to pies and cobblers. Adding a bit of Whiskey to a dessert will give it a unique flavor that will stand out from the rest.
-Mix into cocktails: Whiskey can be used in various cocktails, from the classic Old Fashioned to the more modern Whiskey Sour. Mixing Whiskey into a cocktail will add a depth of flavor that will be sure to please any palate.
5. COGNAC
Cognac is another sub easily used as a substitute for Bourbon in many recipes. It has a similar flavor profile to Bourbon but is often smoother and more complex.
When substituting cognac for Bourbon, use a high-quality brandy and be sure to adjust the recipe accordingly to account for the different proof levels.
Cognac can be used in place of Bourbon in cocktails, marinades, sauces, and baking recipes. When substituting cognac for Bourbon in baking, use 1/3 less cognac than the recipe calls for Bourbon. This will keep your baked items from being overly boozy.
If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic substitute for cognac, you can use apple cider or apple juice. To account for the sweetness of the cider or juice, lower the amount of sweetener in the recipe.
6. DARK BEER
When cooking with Bourbon, you can substitute dark beer for a similar flavor. This will give your dish a more complex flavor, as well as add some depth and richness. Just be careful not to use a beer that is overly hoppy or bitter, as this can overpower the flavor of your dish.
7. SCOTCH
Bourbon is a type of American Whiskey that is made from corn. Scotch, on the other hand, is a type of whisky that is produced in Scotland. While both alcoholic beverages are made from different grains, they can be used interchangeably in cooking.
So, if you’re looking to add a smoky flavor to your dish without using Bourbon, scotch is a great substitute. Just be sure to adjust the amount you use since scotch is typically more potent than Bourbon.
Here are some dishes that would work well with scotch:
-Smoked salmon
-Beef stew
-Chicken curry
-Vegetarian chili
-Baked beans
Scotch can also be used in baking. It adds a unique flavor to cakes, cookies, and pies. So if you’re feeling adventurous, try substituting scotch for Bourbon the next time you bake.
Non-Alcoholic Substitutes for Bourbon in Recipes
8. NON-ALCOHOLIC VANILLA EXTRACT – A Good Non-alcoholic substitute for Bourbon in baking
As a non-alcoholic extract, vanilla provides the same great flavor to baked goods as Bourbon would, without the addition of alcohol.
· This makes it a perfectly safe and delicious option for those looking to avoid alcohol or for those baking for young children. Simply substitute an equal amount of vanilla extract for Bourbon in any recipe.
9. GINGER EXTRACT
Ginger extract is made by boiling the ginger root in water. This creates a concentrated liquid that has a strong, gingery flavor.
It can be used as a substitute for Bourbon in cocktails and other recipes. Ginger extract is also said to have some health benefits, including aiding digestion and helping to relieve nausea.
If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic alternative to Bourbon, give ginger extract a try. It’s a great way to enjoy the flavor of Bourbon without the alcohol content.
10. A MIXTURE of ACV & PEACH NECTAR
Make a mixture of ACV and Peach Nectar. This mixture works well as a non-alcoholic substitute for Bourbon in many cocktails.
The subtle sweetness of the peach nectar complements the tartness of the vinegar, making it a perfect balance for cocktails that need a little bit of both sweet and sour. This combination is also a great way to add some extra fruit flavor to your drinks without making them too sweet.
The most important thing to remember when using this combination in cocktails is to use high-quality vinegar. Acidity is key in cocktails, so you want to make sure that the vinegar you’re using will give your drink the right amount of tartness.
A good quality peach nectar will also add some sweetness and body to the drink, so it’s worth splurging on a good brand if you can.
The Best Substitute for Bourbon in Bourbon Chicken
11. NON-ALCOHOLIC BOURBON EXTRACT
Looking for a way to add that classic bourbon flavor to your favorite recipes without the alcohol?
This non-alcoholic bourbon extract is perfect for baking, cooking, and so much more.
This extract, made with natural flavor, is an excellent method to improve the flavor of your dish without adding any alcohol.
Simply add a few drops to your recipe and enjoy the delicious flavor of Bourbon without the alcohol. Whether you’re looking to add a little something extra to your baked goods or just want to enjoy the flavor of Bourbon without the alcohol, this extract is perfect for you.
So go forward and give it a try; I know you’ll love it!
12. FRUIT JUICES
Not all fruit juices are paired well for replacing Bourbon. There are a few fruit juices that work well as substitutes for Bourbon, depending on the cocktail recipe.
For example, apple juice can be used in place of Bourbon in an Old Fashioned. Orange juice is a good substitute for Bourbon in a Manhattan, and grape juice can be used to make a non-alcoholic version of a Kentucky Mule.
When choosing a fruit juice to substitute for Bourbon, it’s important to consider the other ingredients in the recipe. For instance, if a cocktail calls for lemon juice, using grapefruit juice as a stand-in for the Bourbon would likely result in a very tart drink.
Similarly, using cranberry juice in place of Bourbon would likely make a cocktail too sweet. Ultimately, it’s up to the individual bartender or home cook to decide which fruit juice will work best in a given recipe.
13. NON-ALCOHOLIC ALMOND EXTRACT
Almond Extract is a must-have ingredient for any baker’s cupboard. It imparts a rich, nutty flavor to baked goods and other dishes without the addition of alcohol.
This extract is also an excellent choice for those who are looking for a natural, almond-flavored alternative to traditional extracts.
Add Almond Extract to your favorite recipes for an extra boost of almond flavor, or use it to enhance the flavor of other ingredients. It is also a fantastic method to add almond flavor to coffee, tea, and other beverages.
Almond Extract can also be used in savory dishes, such as chicken or fish recipes. Just a few drops will give your dish a delicious almond flavor.
14. APPLE CIDER VINAGER+SUGAR
While using apple cider vinegar instead of Bourbon may seem strange at first, it might be beneficial when cooking certain dishes.
For every tablespoon of Bourbon, take 1/2 tablespoon apple cider + 1/3 teaspoon brown sugar.
If you want to make BBQ sauce, ribs, pecan pie, eggnog, and pulled pork, use this mixture instead.
15. FRUITS BASED COCKTAIL
Fruits Based Cocktail is our last favorite non-alcoholic alternative to Bourbon. This mix of fruit juices and spices is a delicious way to enjoy your next party.
Ingredients:
- -1 liter apple juice
- -1/2 liter cranberry juice
- -1/4 liter lime juice
- -1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- -1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- -1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- -1/2 cup sugar
- -1 liter club soda or its alternatives
Directions:
1. Combine apple juice, cranberry juice, lime juice, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and sugar in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Release from heat and let cool for 10 minutes.
4. Stir in club soda and serve over ice.
The combination of apple, cranberry, and lime juices makes a delicious and refreshing drink, while the spices add a warm and inviting touch. This fruit-based cocktail is sure to hit the spot. Cheers!
What can I substitute for Bourbon in a recipe?
| Bourbon Substitute in Recipes | Substitutes |
|---|---|
| bourbon substitute for bourbon chicken | Rum, Whiskey, Brandy, Scotch, Almond extract, Bourbon Extract, fruit juice, ACV |
| substitute for Bourbon in bbq sauce | ACV, cognac, whiskey, rum, brandy |
| substitute for Bourbon in cocktails | use any of the substitutes |
| replacement for Bourbon in pecan pie | ACV, Scotch, Whiskey |
| alternate for Bourbon in bread pudding | Fruit Juice, Cognac, Rum |
| Replace Bourbon in ham glaze | Whiskey, Brandy |
| substitute for Bourbon in eggnog | Brandy, Amarula, ACV |
| substitute for Bourbon in caramel sauce | Amarula |
| substitute for Bourbon in mint julep | Whiskey, Gin |
| bourbon substitute in baking | Almond extract, Bourbon Extract, Vanilla Extract, Scotch, Cognac, Rum |
Wrap Up on Bourbon Alternatives For Cooking
Bourbon might be a delicacy, but it isn’t necessary to make pecan pie or eggnog taste better. Substitute bourbon with our list of ingredients and recipes that don’t require it for the same result.
For instance, you can use Whiskey in place of Bourbon when making mocktails like an old-fashioned sour cocktail.
Or, if you want something savory, try substituting your favorite aged liquor in lieu of Bourbon in this recipe for fried chicken made famous by Kentucky’s Colonel Sanders!
FAQs Related to Substitutes for Bourbon
Q1. Can you use Whiskey instead of Bourbon in a recipe?
Yes. You can use either Whiskey or Bourbon in any recipe that calls for the other, though you will obviously need to adjust the amounts based on the differences in alcohol content.
Generally speaking, when a recipe calls for Bourbon, you can use rye instead, and vice versa. However, this is not true in all cases.
Rye and Bourbon are two distinctly different styles of Whiskey (rye tends to be spicier and more full-bodied; Bourbon tends to be sweeter and smoother). Because of the differences in production, you may find that some recipes come out tasting better when you use the proper Whiskey.
Using Whiskey instead of Bourbon, though, feel free to substitute as you see fit. Either way, I hope your next batch of whiskey balls turns out delicious!
Q2. Can I substitute Bourbon for cognac?
Yes, you can substitute Bourbon for cognac in any coquito recipe. It’s not the same thing, but it will do in a pinch if you are out of cognac. I have done it many times.
Q3. Is Bourbon just Whiskey?
There are many different types of Whiskey, but “Bourbon” is one type of Whiskey. But, Bourbon can also be made from rye or corn.
The basic definition of Bourbon is that it must be made in America at least 51% corn or grain and stored in new charred oak containers. It’s recommended to drink Bourbon neat (without ice) because chilling alters the taste too much.