5 Best Substitutes for Amer Picon in Cocktails

We were making cocktails the other day and realized we were out of Amer Picon. Total bummer, right? Amer Picon has that bittersweet orange flavor that takes certain drinks to the next level.

We had to think fast. No one wants to give up on a good drink just because one ingredient is missing. That’s where substitutes come in handy. Trust us, we’ve tried and tested a bunch of swaps to make sure nothing misses the mark.

Some options bring out the classic citrusy vibe. Others lean toward herbal and slightly bitter flavors that still work. Turns out, there’s more than one way to keep your cocktails tasting amazing.

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5 Quick Substitutes for Amer Picon

Here are our top 5 picks for substitutes that work just as well as Amer Picon in cocktails.

1 – Torani Amer

Torani Amer does the trick when you need a stand-in for Amer Picon. Swap it 1:1 in any cocktail recipe. It’s got that same orange-bitter flavor with a slightly stronger herbal kick.

We tried it in a classic Americano, and it blended beautifully. The bitterness is a touch more pronounced, so it shines in robust, spirit-forward drinks. If you’re after balance, add a splash of orange juice or a hint of simple syrup.

Torani Amer may not be identical, but it’s close enough to keep your drinks tasting spot-on with minimal effort.

2 – Amaro CioCiaro

Amaro CioCiaro steps in nicely when we’re out of Amer Picon. Use it 1:1 as a direct substitute. It has a similar bittersweet orange profile with a richer, spiced finish.

We’ve tried it in a Boulevardier, and it added an extra layer of depth. It leans slightly sweeter than Amer Picon, so it works great with bold or citrusy cocktails. If the drink feels too sweet, a dash of bitters balances things out.

Amaro CioCiaro offers a flavorful twist while staying close to the original taste. It’s a reliable pick for cocktails that call for that signature bitter-orange note.

3 – Aperol

Aperol works well when we need to replace Amer Picon in drinks. Use it at a 1:1 ratio for a similar bittersweet orange flavor. It’s lighter and less bitter, with a gentle herbal tone that blends easily.

We’ve tested it in a French 75, and it added a citrusy sweetness that stood out. Aperol’s mild profile makes it better for refreshing and fruity cocktails. If you want more depth, combine it with a touch of bitters or a stronger liqueur.

For more options, check out this guide on substitutes for Aperol. It’s packed with ideas for similar swaps.

4 – Campari

Campari comes pretty close if you’re out of Amer Picon. Use it at a 1:1 ratio for that bittersweet orange flavor. It’s more bitter and herbal, which gives drinks a bolder edge.

We tried it in a classic cocktail, and it brought a stronger bitterness that worked well. Campari pairs best with simple syrups or sweet vermouth to balance the sharp notes. Adding a splash of orange liqueur can also brighten up the flavor.

For even more ideas, check out this list of Campari alternatives. It’s full of great options to keep your drink recipes on track.

5 – Angostura Orange Bitters

Angostura Orange Bitters works in a pinch if you have no Amer Picon. Use about 2-3 dashes per drink as a substitute. It’s more concentrated, with bold citrus and spice notes that stand out.

We’ve added it to an Old Fashioned, and it gave the drink a bright, orangey kick. Because it’s stronger, it’s best mixed with a sweeter ingredient to balance the sharpness. You can pair it with a splash of orange liqueur or simple syrup for smoother results.

If you’re curious about more ideas, check out this guide on Angostura Bitters replacements. It’s packed with helpful alternatives.