We’ve all been there. You’re in the middle of cooking and realize you’re out of rum. What now? No need for a sudden grocery trip!
We’ve got six fantastic substitutes right here for you. These alternatives will keep your recipe on track and might even surprise your taste buds.
Whether you’re whipping up a savory dish or a sweet treat, our suggestions have got you covered. We’ve tested these swaps and trust us, you won’t miss the rum.
Let’s get right to it, friends! Your dinner party or cozy night in will be saved without a hitch.
Ready to find out what works best? Let’s go!

6 Substitutes for Rum in Cooking
When in doubt, reach for one of these ingredients to bring the same depth of flavor and richness that rum provides.
1 – Vanilla Extract
First, vanilla extract is so versatile. The rich, sweet aroma is a delight. It brings warmth to your dish. We love how the flavor integrates smoothly with both sweet and savory dishes.
Remember that time we couldn’t find rum? Vanilla extract saved the day. A little goes a long way, so use it sparingly. The subtle notes blend wonderfully.
If you want more options, read about other vanilla extract substitutes. You’ll find it’s a game-time decision for many home cooks.
2 – Brandy
Brandy brings that sweet, fruity taste that we love. It’s got a stronger kick than rum, giving our dishes a real depth. We use the same amount as rum, keeping it simple.
It holds up well in both sweet and savory recipes. One time, we swapped in brandy for a dessert and the flavor was incredible. It added a rich, caramel note that we still talk about.
For more on how to use brandy, check out brandy substitutes. A handy read for all cooking enthusiasts.
3 – Apple Juice
As a replacement for rum in cooking, apple juice is our go-to for its approachable, sweet taste. It finds a special place in more than just breakfast dishes. Its mild sweetness and slight tartness can enhance savory recipes splendidly.
In particular, we appreciate how apple juice mimics the fruity undertones of rum while keeping it non-alcoholic.
We’ve tried it in glazes, and the results were surprisingly good. Looking for more ideas? Check this guide on apple juice substitutes for even more cooking inspiration.
4 – White Grape Juice
White grape juice is a sleeper hit as a rum substitute. It’s subtly sweet with a hint of tartness. We love how it meshes with both sweet and savory dishes.
Plus, it offers a fruity richness that’s reminiscent of rum. Think about using it in recipes like glazes or marinades.
We’ve had great results every time. Its mild flavor doesn’t overwhelm other ingredients. It enhances them.
Try it in place of rum, use the same amount, and see the magic. This juice really pulls its weight in cooking.
5 – Rum Extract
We love rum extract for its concentrated flavor. It’s a perfect non-alcoholic option that mirrors rum’s characteristics, making it ideal for those avoiding alcohol.
The rich, robust taste of rum extract enhances both sweet and savory dishes alike. We’ve found it works wonders in cakes and marinades. Just a little bit goes a long way, so use it sparingly. It’s important to balance it well because it’s potent.
Curious about other swaps? Check out our rum extract substitutes for more ideas.
6 – Water or broth
Using water or broth is a neat trick. Water is plain and unobtrusive. It lets other flavors shine. Broth, on the other hand, adds an extra depth.
We’ve had success with broth in meat dishes. It enhances the savoury elements. The flavour profile remains rich and balanced.
In our tests, water kept dishes light. It worked best for fruit-based recipes. Broth, by contrast, gave a cozy, hearty feel. We often use veg or chicken broth for its mild, yet impactful taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, vanilla extract offers a sweet, aromatic flavor and works well in both savory and sweet dishes as a rum replacement.
Brandy can replace rum in cooking, providing a rich flavor, but it has a deeper, slightly fruity taste.
Apple juice can mimic the sweetness of rum, and adding a dash of cinnamon can help replicate the warm flavor.
Yes, white grape juice is a great alcohol-free option, though it may lack the richness of rum, so add a little extra spice.
Rum extract provides concentrated flavor and is an excellent substitute when you want the taste of rum without the alcohol.
Yes, water or broth can replace rum in savory dishes, but you’ll miss the sweetness and complexity, so consider adding a touch of sugar or spice.

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.