Substitute for Almond Extract: 7 Smart Options
The best substitute for almond extract is Sliced or Ground Almonds at a Use 200% ratio. There are 6 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Sliced or Ground Almonds
Use 200%
You can use Sliced or Ground Almonds in place of almond extract when needed. Use 200% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. This option is more concentrated than almond extract, so small adjustments make a noticeable difference. It is especially useful in baking.
What are the other substitutes for almond extract?
Almond Oil
Use 50%
Almond Oil works as a substitute for almond extract in many recipes. Use 50% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. This option is more concentrated than almond extract, so small adjustments make a noticeable difference.
Almond Paste
Use 50%
Almond Paste works as a substitute for almond extract in many recipes. Use 50% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. This option is more concentrated than almond extract, so small adjustments make a noticeable difference.
Almond Powder (finely ground)
Same amount (1:1)
Almond Powder (finely ground) works as a substitute for almond extract in many recipes. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. This option is more concentrated than almond extract, so small adjustments make a noticeable difference.
Apricot Kernel Extract
Same amount (1:1)
Apricot Kernel Extract works as a substitute for almond extract in many recipes. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. This option is more concentrated than almond extract, so small adjustments make a noticeable difference. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
Hazelnut Extract
Same amount (1:1)
You can use Hazelnut Extract in place of almond extract when needed. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. This option is more concentrated than almond extract, so small adjustments make a noticeable difference. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
Vanilla Extract
Same amount (1:1)
Vanilla Extract is a workable stand-in for almond extract. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. This option is more concentrated than almond extract, so small adjustments make a noticeable difference. The flavor lands a bit softer than the original, so you may want a final taste adjustment. It is especially useful in baking. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
What should you know before substituting almond extract?
Sliced or Ground Almonds is the easiest starting point because it stays closest to almond extract in everyday cooking. Use 200% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. Choose the substitute that gets you closest in flavor, texture, and ease of use.
How do you substitute almond extract in a recipe?
When a recipe calls for almond extract and you need an alternative, there are 7 tested substitutes available. Sliced or Ground Almonds is the best overall replacement, used at a Use 200% ratio. The right substitute depends on the role almond extract plays in your recipe: whether it provides flavor, texture, moisture, or structure.
The best substitute for almond extract depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Sliced or Ground Almonds (Use 200%), which works well for most recipes.
If you need a different option, Almond Oil (Use 50%) is another reliable choice. Almond Oil works as a substitute for almond extract in many recipes. Use 50% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. This option is more concentrated than almond extract, so small adjustments make a noticeable difference.
When substituting almond extract, consider the flavor profile, texture, and cooking method of your recipe. For vegan alternatives, look for the options marked with the vegan badge above.
Substitution ratios verified against USDA FoodData Central and FoodSafety.gov. See our testing methodology for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best substitute for Almond Extract?
Sliced or Ground Almonds is the best place to start for almond extract. Use 200% of the original amount and then adjust after tasting if the dish needs a little more intensity or balance.
How many substitutes are there for Almond Extract?
This page lists 7 substitutes for almond extract. The best pick depends on whether you want the closest flavor, similar texture, or simply the easiest pantry backup.