Best Brandy Substitutes
What Can I Use Instead of Brandy in a Recipe?
Use the same amount as the original. Use 1:1 for brandy in most recipes. The flavor profile is slightly different and less complex; taste and adjust as needed.
Looking for the best Brandy substitute? You're in the right place. We've rounded up 4 reliable Brandy replacements that work in cooking and baking — ranked and explained so you can pick the right one for your recipe. Great for when you want to save money at the store or keep things plant-based. The top pick is Cooking Sherry — it's the closest match for most recipes. Use 1:1 for brandy in most recipes. The flavor profile is slightly different and less complex; taste and adjust as needed.
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Get ratios for Brandy →All Brandy Substitutes (4 options)
Use 1:1 for brandy in most recipes. The flavor profile is slightly different and less complex; taste and adjust as needed.
Apple juice lacks the depth and alcohol of brandy. Use equal volume but simmer longer to reduce and concentrate flavor.
Orange juice adds acidity and sweetness similar to brandy's notes. Use 1:1 for braising and sauces, but avoid recipes where alcohol burn-off is critical.
Red wine is slightly less concentrated and has more acidity than brandy. Use 1:1 in most recipes; may require slightly longer cooking time to reduce.
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Tips for Substituting Brandy
For most recipes, Cooking Sherry is the best starting point. Use 1:1 for brandy in most recipes. The flavor profile is slightly different and less complex; taste and adjust as needed. Going plant-based? Orange Juice, Apple Juice are both vegan-friendly options that work well in most recipes. Watching your grocery budget? Orange Juice is the most wallet-friendly swap and does a solid job in most uses. If you're unsure which Brandy substitute to use, think about why the original is in the recipe: flavor, texture, moisture, or binding? Choose the substitute that best matches that function.
Common Questions About Brandy Substitutes
The best substitute for Brandy is Cooking Sherry. Use the same amount. Use 1:1 for brandy in most recipes. The flavor profile is slightly different and less complex; taste and adjust as needed.
This guide lists 4 Brandy alternatives. The best one depends on your recipe, dietary needs, and what you have on hand — check the substitution cards above for details on each.
Orange Juice is a great plant-based alternative to Brandy. Orange juice adds acidity and sweetness similar to brandy's notes. Use 1:1 for braising and sauces, but avoid recipes where alcohol burn-off is critical.
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