Substitute for Almond Extract
Alternatice tof Almond Extract
Almond extract is used in a wide variety of recipes, whether it’s pastry, dessert, or even some beverages.
Yet, for whatever reason, you might be looking for a substitute for an almond extract that will give you a similar flavor enhancement effect, and that is where this guide hops in for the help!
In today’s article, we’ll walk you through a brief guide that includes 4 of the most suitable almond extract substitutes. Let’s jump right in!
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What Does Almond Extract Taste Like?
A lot of people who have never tasted almond extract before are quite fascinated by how almond extract and actual almonds taste nothing alike!
Almond extract is made from bitter almond oil, with “benzaldehyde” being the major contributor to the extract’s taste and flavor.
Unlike almonds themselves, the almond extract has a fruity flavor with sweet hints that are close to the distinctive taste of Amaretto.
Thanks to this complex and potent taste, the extract is used in very small amounts and is often coupled with vanilla, chocolate, coffee, and cherry.
What Are the Best Substitutes for Almond Extract?
In the following list, we’ll show you some of the best items and ingredients that you can use in replacement to almond extract to give your drinks and pastry the same effect of almond extracts:
1. Vanilla Extract
The best substitute for almond extract, especially when it comes to pastry, is vanilla extract. These two are not related chemically, so it’s ideal for those who suffer from allergy problems.
You should keep in mind that vanilla extract only produces a sweet aroma but doesn’t add to the flavor. For every 3 drops of almond extract, you can add about 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
2. Almond Liqueur
The closest thing out there to almond extract is liquors that have the flavor of bitter almonds, such as Amaretto. The alcohol in the liquor evaporates upon heating, so you don’t have to worry about that.
Almond liqueur is also great for beginners because it spares you from doing the math, as you use it in a 1:1 ratio to almond extract.
3. Cinnamon
While cinnamon and almond offer two different notes, they both work like charm in adding a unique aroma to pastry, especially the sweet but non-fruity ones.
To substitute almond extract, you should use about 1/2 a teaspoon of cinnamon for every 2 to 3 drops of the extract.
4. Cherry Juice
Since the almond extract is often added to cherries to complement their flavor and aroma, you can replace your potent extract with some concentrated cherry juice.
Ideally, you should use about 2 1/2 teaspoons of concentrated cherry juice or 4 teaspoons of regular cherry juice to replace every 3 drops of almond extract.
Final Thoughts
With that said, you now have a brief overview of the top ingredients that you can use as a substitute for almond extract.
If you’re looking for an almond extract substitute due to allergy problems, you should keep in mind that almond-containing elements, like almond liqueur, won’t work for you.