If you're out of BEST Angostura Bitters, reach for Peychaud's Bitters, Boker's Bitters, Regan's Orange Bitters No. 6, Amaro, and Campari.
Peychaud's Bitters
Peychaud's bitters are a type of aromatic bitter that is traditionally used in cocktails.
For cooking, Boker's Bitters also works well - adjust the amount to taste.
Angostura bitters are the secret sauce in iconic cocktails. But sometimes, you just can't find them on your shelf.
There are some pretty awesome stand-ins that can save your cocktail game.
Think outside the bottle. This list is going to be your cocktail hack, transforming "Oh no" moments into "Aha!" ones.
Welcome to the club where missing ingredients spark even better creations. Ready to mix things up?
The 5 Best Substitutes for Angostura Bitters
If you're looking for a substitute for the distinctive taste of Angostura bitters, there are several other options that can provide similar aromas and flavors - see Cooking Secrets: 5 Best Substitutes for Eggs in Meatballs for an unrelated-but-useful substitution approach.
Here is a look at five of the best substitutes for Angostura bitters:
1 - Peychaud's Bitters
Peychaud's bitters are a type of aromatic bitter that is traditionally used in cocktails.
It is made from a blend of herbs and spices, including anise, licorice, and peppermint.
The flavor is slightly sweet and citrusy, with a distinct herbal finish.
Peychaud's bitters can be used as a substitute for Angostura bitters in cocktails - check Peychaud's swap suggestions for cocktails for exact proportions and tips.
When substituting, keep in mind that Peychaud's bitters are more strongly flavored, so you may want to use less than the recipe calls for.
You can also experiment with different proportions to find the flavor that you prefer.
2 - Boker's Bitters
Boker's Bitters is a non-alcoholic bitter that has been produced since 1828.
It is made from a variety of herbs and spices, including gentian root, quinine, and orange peel.
The bitters have a strong, aromatic flavor that is often used to add depth and complexity to cocktails.
Boker's Bitters can be substituted for Angostura bitters in any recipe - learn more about flavor differences in bitters taste guide for substitutions.
The two bitters are very similar in taste and texture, making Boker's a great option for those who prefer not to use alcohol.
To use Boker's Bitters in place of Angostura, simply add the same amount of bitters to your cocktail recipe.
You may find that the flavor of your cocktail is slightly different, but the overall taste will be similar.
3 - Regan's Orange Bitters No. 6
Regan's Orange Bitters No.
6 is a type of aromatic bitter that is used to add flavor and depth to cocktails.
The bitters are made with a blend of orange peel, spices, and botanicals, and they have a deep, rich flavor that can be used to enhance many different types of drinks.
The bitters are also very versatile and can be used in place of Angostura bitters in cocktails - for alternatives with floral citrus notes see orange flower water substitute ideas.
To substitute Regan's Orange Bitters for Angostura bitters, simply add the same amount of bitters to your cocktail recipe.
The orange flavor of Regan's Orange Bitters will add a unique twist to your favorite recipes.
4 - Amaro
Amaro is an Italian herbal liqueur that is often used as a digestif.
It is bittersweet, with a complex flavor that can include notes of citrus, herbs, and spice.
Amaro is typically served neat or on the rocks, but it can also be used in cocktails in place of Angostura bitters - review Amaro Nonino substitute options for similar Italian liqueurs to try.
When substituting Amaro for Angostura bitters, use it sparingly, as the flavor is very concentrated.
Start with just a few dashes and add more to taste.
You may also want to reduce the amount of sweetener in your cocktail recipe, as Amaro is already quite sweet.
Whether you're enjoying it on its own or using it to add depth to a cocktail, Amaro is a nice way to end a meal.
5 - Campari
Campari is a type of bitter that originates from Italy.
It is made from a blend of different herbs and spices, including bitter orange, rhubarb, and quinine.
Campari has a strong, distinctive flavor that is both bitter and sweet.
It is often used to add flavor to cocktails, as well as to make aperitifs and digestifs.
The taste of Campari can be somewhat acquired, but once you get used to it, it can be quite enjoyable.
In terms of texture, Campari is thick and syrupy.
It is also very potent, so a little goes a long way.
If you are looking for a substitute for Angostura bitters, Campari is a good option.
It will replicate the bittersweet flavor of Angostura bitters and add a similar depth of flavor to your cocktail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Peychaud's Bitters, Boker's Bitters, Regan's Orange Bitters No. Use it at a 1:1 ratio in any recipe that calls for BEST Angostura Bitters.
Absolutely. Peychaud's Bitters is the closest swap.
Boker's Bitters also works in a pinch. Match the original amount and tweak from there.
Can this substitute be used in baking as well as cooking?
Some work in both, but baking is less forgiving.
Substitutes that alter fat content, sweetness, or moisture can shift the structure of baked goods.
Test with a small batch first.
Frozen substitutes sometimes change texture after thawing. This matters more in raw applications like salads than in cooked dishes where texture is softened by heat anyway.
Peychaud's vs Angostura: A Comparison of Bitters is a useful reference for differences. Peychaud's vs Angostura comparison guide and further reading on specific swaps is available at Peychaud's swap suggestions for cocktails.