Maybe you're out of orange bitters, or you just want to try something new (orange bitters are a concentrated cocktail flavoring made from bitter citrus peels and botanicals like gentian).
Our comprehensive list will give your drinks that extra zing. From citrus juices to other bitters, there's a whole range of options.
I once ran out midway through making cocktails for friends.
It was a moment of improvisation and discovery.
These substitutes work so well, some could even become your new favorite. Buckle up, because we're about to make your drinks sing with flavor!
7 Easy Substitutes for Orange Bitters
While orange bitters add a unique and delicious flavor to cocktails, there are plenty of other ingredients that can achieve the same effect. Here are seven easy substitutes for orange bitters:
1 - Angostura Bitters with a Twist of Orange
The cool thing about Angostura bitters (an aromatic bitters originally formulated in Trinidad) with a twist of orange is that they bring a warm, spicy goodness with a fresh citrus kick.
The peel's zestiness adds brightness; see orange marmalade swaps for recipes.
Smooth and mellow, but still zippy. Perfect for sprucing up cocktails.
We tried it in our old fashioned. Worked great.
Almost tasted like tropical vacation.
Discover more tricks by checking out this detailed guide on the best Angostura bitters substitutes.
2 - Orange Extract with a Dash of Bitterness
The orange extract with a dash of bitters is a nifty substitute (a concentrated distilled orange oil flavoring). We love its zesty tang paired with a slight bitterness.
Mix ¼ teaspoon of orange extract and 1-2 dashes of regular bitters.
The flavor stands out in cocktails.
We tried it in our margaritas. Wow, the citrusy punch was intense but balanced.
Super easy and effective. No need to miss out on your favorite cocktail.
Want more tips? Check out the guide on other orange extract substitutes and lemon extract options for baking.
3 - Triple Sec or Cointreau
Buzz around Triple Sec and Cointreau is worth the hype. Both are sweet, with a strong, clear orange flavor.
They're liqueurs (orange-flavored spirits made with brandy or neutral alcohol), so they add sweetness to your drink.
Triple Sec is like candy-orange sweet. It works well if you're aiming for a more pronounced citrus vibe.
Cointreau, on the other hand, is smoother and has a balanced orange profile. It's a bit more refined.
For a stand-in for orange bitters, try using ½ teaspoon of either in your cocktail. We used them in whiskey sours and they added a delicious twist.
Check out more Triple Sec substitutes and Cointreau substitutes.
4 - Fresh Orange Juice and Bitter Lemon Soda
The combo of fresh orange juice and bitter lemon soda is pretty stellar. Think about the bright and tangy burst from oranges (Citrus sinensis) paired with a zesty bitterness.
It's refreshing and adds a complex twist.
Mix 1 tablespoon of fresh orange juice with a splash of bitter lemon soda. We've tried it in gimlets, and they absolutely sang.
The balance of sweet and zesty made our drinks pop.
For more handy swaps, check out this guide on orange juice substitutes and fresh lemon juice substitutes for cocktails.
5 - Homemade Orange Bitters
Ever tried making your own orange bitters? It's incredibly simple and oh-so-rewarding.
We experimented with it, and the results were spectacular.
Just combine dried orange peels (Citrus sinensis) with a mix of spices and alcohol. Let it sit for a few weeks.
A little patience goes a long way.
Flavor-wise, it's a blend of citrusy zing and spicy warmth. We found it adds a strong, aromatic quality to cocktails.
Use 1 dash for every 2 dashes of store-bought bitters.
Our Negronis tasted richer and more complex. You'll be impressed!
For more tips and tricks, peek at this guide on how to make homemade bitters and rich sauce substitutes for savory recipes.
6 - Aromatic Bitters with a Squeeze of Orange Juice
Aromatic bitters mixed with fresh orange juice is a solid choice (aromatic bitters often contain gentian root and warming spices). The bitter notes from aromatic bitters balance well with the citrusy tang of orange juice.
We love how this substitute keeps drinks refreshing and flavorful. Try mixing 1 dash of aromatic bitters with 1 teaspoon of fresh orange juice.
It's a fantastic blend for spicing up cocktails; see apple juice swaps for cocktails.
The flavors were bold and well-rounded.
7 - Citrus Vodka and Regular Bitters
Citrus vodka and regular bitters make a dynamic duo. The citrus vodka (vodka infused with citrus oils from lemon or orange peels) offers a zesty, sharp flavor, while the bitters add a deep, spiced note.
We love how these two together bring a balanced, complex taste to our drinks.
Mix ½ teaspoon of citrus vodka with a dash of regular bitters. The flavors are lively with a clear citrus punch.
We tried it in our old-fashioned, and it gave the cocktail a refreshing twist.
For us, this combo is an easy win. Give it a whirl!
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, adding a twist of orange to Angostura Bitters provides a similar flavor to orange bitters, with a nice balance of spice and citrus.
Orange extract combined with a small amount of a bittering agent (like gentian or quinine) mimics the fruity and bitter qualities of orange bitters.
Triple Sec or Cointreau can provide an orange flavor but with more sweetness and less bitterness. They're a good option for drinks where sweetness is a plus.
This combo gives a nice citrusy flavor with the bitterness from the lemon soda. It's a lighter substitute and works well for cocktails like spritzers or highballs.
Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.
