Amaretto substitutes
Amaretto substitutes — 6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Almond extract + simple syrup
Per 1 oz amaretto
¼ tsp almond extract + 1 oz simple syrup
Pure almond flavor with sweetness to match amaretto's profile.
The best substitutes for amaretto are almond extract with simple syrup, orgeat syrup, or Frangelico hazelnut liqueur.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- baking
Updated 19 Aug 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked · per 1 oz amaretto| # | Substitute | Instead of 1 oz amaretto | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Almond extract + simple syrupbaking | ¼ tsp almond extract + 1 oz simple syrupWorks | Works |
| 2 | Orgeat syrupcocktails | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Frangelicococktails | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 4 | Disaronnococktails | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 5 | Almond syrupnon-alcoholic drinks | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 6 | Amaretto liqueur (homemade)cocktails | Same amountWorks | Works |
Almond extract + simple syrup
similar taste and texture
Pure almond flavor with sweetness to match amaretto's profile.
- Best for
- baking, desserts, cocktails, coffee drinks
Mix equal parts sugar and water for simple syrup. Use pure almond extract, not imitation.
Orgeat syrup
similar taste, different texture
Sweet almond syrup traditionally used in cocktails, especially tiki drinks.
- Best for
- cocktails, coffee drinks, desserts, baking
Slightly thicker than amaretto but similar flavor profile. May need to thin with water.
Frangelico
different taste, similar texture
Hazelnut liqueur with similar sweetness and nutty flavor profile.
- Best for
- cocktails, desserts, coffee drinks, baking
Hazelnut instead of almond flavor, but similar sweetness and alcohol content.
Disaronno
similar taste and texture
Another brand of amaretto liqueur with very similar flavor profile.
- Best for
- cocktails, desserts, coffee drinks, baking
Essentially the same as amaretto, just a different brand. Direct substitute.
Almond syrup
similar taste, different texture
Non-alcoholic almond-flavored syrup used in coffee shops.
- Best for
- non-alcoholic drinks, coffee, desserts, baking
No alcohol content, so adjust other ingredients accordingly. May be sweeter than amaretto.
Amaretto liqueur (homemade)
similar taste and texture
Make your own by steeping almonds in vodka with sugar and vanilla.
- Best for
- cocktails, desserts, coffee drinks, baking
Requires 2-4 weeks to develop full flavor. Use blanched almonds and good quality vodka.
Questions
4 questionsCan I use almond extract instead of amaretto?
Yes, but you'll need to add sweetness since amaretto contains sugar. Mix ¼ teaspoon almond extract with 1 ounce simple syrup for every ounce of amaretto needed.
What's the difference between amaretto and Disaronno?
Disaronno is a brand of amaretto liqueur. They're essentially the same product with very similar flavor profiles, so Disaronno is a direct substitute for amaretto.
Can I make amaretto at home?
Yes, you can make a homemade version by steeping blanched almonds in vodka with sugar and vanilla extract for 2-4 weeks. The flavor will be similar but may not be as complex as commercial brands.
Is amaretto gluten-free?
Most amaretto brands are gluten-free as they're made from almonds, sugar, and alcohol. However, always check the label as some brands may contain gluten-containing ingredients.
Tips for substituting amaretto
8 tips- Amaretto adds sweetness and almond flavor to both sweet and savory dishes
- Use in coffee drinks like amaretto lattes or Irish coffee variations
- Good for tiramisu, cheesecake, and other Italian desserts
- Add to whipped cream for a flavored topping
- Use in marinades for pork or chicken dishes
- Amaretto pairs well with chocolate, coffee, and vanilla flavors
- Store amaretto in a cool, dark place to preserve flavor
- Add a splash to hot chocolate for a warming winter drink