Orange vs Lemon Zest
A side-by-side guide to substituting Lemon Zest for Orange (or vice versa).
Use 0.5 tbsp of Lemon Zest for every 1 tbsp of Orange.
Side-by-side
Lemon Zest
Conversion: Use 50% as much (0.5 tbsp per 1 tbsp)
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Notes: Lemon zest is much more concentrated and tart than orange zest. Start with half the amount and adjust to taste, as lemon flavor can overpower quickly.
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Open calculator →When to use Lemon Zest instead of Orange
Lemon zest is much more concentrated and tart than orange zest. Start with half the amount and adjust to taste, as lemon flavor can overpower quickly. The conversion is use 50% as much (0.5 tbsp per 1 tbsp).
Common questions
Yes — Lemon zest is much more concentrated and tart than orange zest. Start with half the amount and adjust to taste, as lemon flavor can overpower quickly. Ratio: Use 50% as much (0.5 tbsp per 1 tbsp).
Use 50% as much (0.5 tbsp per 1 tbsp). For other quantities, use the SubSwap calculator.
They are similar in most uses, but Lemon zest is much more concentrated and tart than orange zest..
Lemon Zest is one of the options SubSwap lists for Orange. The 'best' choice depends on your recipe — see the full list of Orange substitutes.
Looking for more Orange substitutes beyond Lemon Zest?
See all Orange swaps →