Paul Kushner
Orgeat syrup is a sweet, nutty syrup that is often used in cocktails, coffee, and other beverages. It is made from almonds, sugar, and orange flower water, and is a popular ingredient in many classic cocktails. However, if you don’t have orgeat syrup on hand or can’t find it at your local grocery store, there are several substitutes that you can use to achieve a similar flavor.
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If your cocktail recipe calls for orgeat and you don’t have any on hand, try these alternatives:
Almond Syrup
Almond syrup is a great substitute for orgeat syrup as it has a very similar almond taste. The nutty flavor of almond syrup is less complex compared with orgeat syrup, as it does not contain any rose water or orange flower water. Almond syrup is widely available in grocery stores and online, and it is often used in coffee drinks and cocktails. It can be used in the same proportion as orgeat syrup in most recipes.
Amaretto and Amaretto Liqueur
Amaretto is an almond-flavored liqueur that can be used as a substitute for orgeat syrup in cocktails. It has a sweet, nutty flavor that is similar to orgeat syrup, but it also has a higher alcohol content. Amaretto liqueur is often used in dessert cocktails, such as the Amaretto Sour and the Godfather.
Homemade Orgeat
Almonds and blanched almonds can be used to make a homemade orgeat syrup that is similar to the commercial version. To make almond orgeat syrup, you need to soak the almonds in water overnight, then blend them with water, sugar, and orange flower water until smooth. The resulting syrup can be used in cocktails and other drinks. Blanched almonds are preferred for making orgeat syrup as they do not contain the skin, which can make the syrup bitter.
Almond Extract
Almond extract is a concentrated almond flavor that can be used in place of orgeat syrup in cocktails. It is made by soaking almonds in alcohol, and then filtering the mixture to remove the solids, but you can also find it in the baking aisle of your grocery store. Almond extract is very strong, so only a small amount is needed to flavor a drink. It can also be used in baking and cooking.
Almond Milk
Almond milk is a popular dairy-free milk alternative that can be used in place of orgeat syrup in cocktails. It has a nutty flavor and a creamy texture that is similar to orgeat syrup. Sweetened almond milk can be used to add sweetness to a drink, while unsweetened almond milk can be used to add a nutty flavor without adding sweetness.
Simple Syrup
Simple syrup is a basic syrup made by dissolving sugar in water. It is a versatile syrup that can be used in a variety of cocktails and drinks. Although it does not have the nutty flavor of orgeat, it can be a good substitute for adding sweetness to a drink.
Orange Syrup
Orange syrup is a sweet, tangy syrup made from orange juice and sugar. It is a great substitute for orgeat in drinks that require a citrusy flavor. Orange syrup can be used in a variety of cocktails, such as the Mai Tai or the Hurricane.
Maple Syrup
Maple syrup is a natural sweetener made from the sap of maple trees. It has a rich, sweet flavor that can be a good substitute for orgeat in drinks that require a sweet, nutty taste. Maple syrup can be used in a variety of cocktails, such as the Maple Old Fashioned or the Maple Manhattan.
Molasses
Molasses is a thick, dark syrup that is made from sugar cane. It has a rich, smoky flavor that can be a good substitute for orgeat in drinks that require a deep, complex taste. Molasses can be used in a variety of cocktails, such as the Dark and Stormy or the Rum Sour.
Crème de Noyaux
Crème de Noyaux is a French crème liqueur that has a distinct marzipan-like taste. Although it does not contain any nuts, it is often used as a replacement for orgeat in cocktails. The unique flavor of Crème de Noyaux comes from the apricot or cherry pits used to create the liqueur.
Frangelico
Frangelico is an Italian liqueur that is made with hazelnuts, vanilla, and cocoa. While it does not have an almond flavor, it can be used as a substitute for orgeat in cocktails that require a nutty flavor. Frangelico is often used in coffee-based cocktails, such as the Nutty Irishman.
