Looking to shake things up with some orange bitters substitutes? We’ve got you covered. Maybe you’re out of orange bitters, or you just want to try something new.
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 with a twist of orange is that they bring a warm, spicy goodness with a fresh citrus kick.
Mix 1 dash of Angostura bitters with a small piece of orange peel. The peel’s zestiness adds brightness. 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. We love its zesty tang paired with a slight bitterness. Mix 1/4 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 our guide on other orange extract substitutes.
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, 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 1/2 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 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.
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 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 robust, 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.
6 – Aromatic Bitters with a Squeeze of Orange Juice
Aromatic bitters mixed with fresh orange juice is a solid choice. 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. We tried it in our martinis, and it was incredible. 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 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 1/2 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!
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.