Citrus substitute

Best substitute

White Wine Vinegar

Use the same amount (1 tbsp citrus juice = 1 tbsp vinegar) as the citrus you are replacing

Best for marinades

Different taste

Acidic liquid that provides similar tanginess to citrus juice in cooking and marinades.

Other citrus substitutes

Ranked, with the exact amount to use

2Apple Cider Vinegar
Different taste
Use the same amount
Mild vinegar with fruity undertones that works well as a citrus substitute in many applications.
What changes
Best for
marinades, dressings, baking, cooking
Slightly sweeter than white vinegar. Works well in both sweet and savory applications.
3Citric Acid
Different texture
Use 1 tbsp citrus juice for every ¼ tsp citric acid
Concentrated acid powder that provides the same acidity as citrus juice without the liquid.
What changes
Best for
baking, preserving, candy making, beverages
Very concentrated - use sparingly. Dissolve in water before using.
4Lemon Extract
Different texture
Use 1 tbsp juice for every ½ tsp extract
Concentrated lemon flavor that works well in baking and desserts.
What changes
Best for
baking, desserts, frostings, beverages
Provides flavor but not acidity. Add vinegar or citric acid for acidity.
5Yogurt
Taste and texture differ
Use the same amount
Tangy dairy product that can provide acidity and moisture in baking applications.
What changes
Best for
baking, marinades, dressings, sauces
Adds moisture and tanginess. Use plain, unsweetened yogurt for best results.
6Buttermilk
Taste and texture differ
Use the same amount
Tangy dairy liquid that provides acidity and moisture similar to citrus juice.
What changes
Best for
baking, marinades, dressings, batter
Slightly thicker than citrus juice. Works well in baking applications.

What is Citrus?

Citrus is Acidic fruits including lemons, limes, oranges, and grapefruits, commonly used for their juice, zest, and bright, tangy flavor.

Cooking tips

Roll citrus fruits on the counter before juicing to release more juice
Zest citrus before juicing - the zest contains the most flavor
Store citrus at room temperature for best flavor, or refrigerate for longer storage
Freeze citrus juice in ice cube trays for convenient portioning
Use a microplane grater for the finest zest texture
Citrus pairs well with herbs like thyme, rosemary, and basil
Add citrus zest at the end of cooking to preserve the bright flavor

Frequently asked questions

Can I substitute different types of citrus for each other?

Yes, most citrus fruits can be substituted for each other in equal amounts. Lemons and limes are most interchangeable, while oranges and grapefruits are sweeter and less acidic.

How do I get more juice from citrus fruits?

Roll the fruit on the counter with gentle pressure, microwave for 10-15 seconds, or let it come to room temperature. Cut in half and use a citrus reamer or juicer for best results.

Can I use bottled citrus juice instead of fresh?

Yes, bottled citrus juice works as a substitute for fresh, though it may lack some brightness. Use the same amount and add a little fresh zest if available for better flavor.

How do I store citrus zest?

Store citrus zest in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze it for up to 3 months. You can also dry it and store in a cool, dry place.

Related substitutes

More fruits substitutes

Citrus substitute

Other citrus substitutes

2Apple Cider Vinegar

3Citric Acid

4Lemon Extract

5Yogurt

6Buttermilk