Apple Cider Vinegar Substitutes – 5 Easy Alternatives
The best substitute for apple cider vinegar is White Wine Vinegar at a 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar = 1 tbsp white wine vinegar ratio. It works best for dressings, sauces, pickling. There are 4 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
White Wine Vinegar
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar = 1 tbsp white wine vinegar
Very similar acidity level with a cleaner, less fruity flavor. Works in all cooking applications.
What are the other substitutes for apple cider vinegar?
Rice Vinegar + Honey
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar = 1 tbsp rice vinegar + 1/4 tsp honey
Rice vinegar is milder, so a touch of honey approximates the fruity sweetness of apple cider vinegar.
Lemon Juice
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar = 1 tbsp lemon juice
Provides equivalent acidity with a fresh citrus note instead of apple. Great in baking as a buttermilk substitute base.
Red Wine Vinegar
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar = 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
Slightly more robust flavor and darker color. Works well in heartier dishes and marinades.
Distilled White Vinegar (diluted)
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar = 1 tbsp white vinegar diluted with a splash of water
White vinegar is harsher, so dilute slightly. Lacks the fruity depth but provides the same acidity for baking.
What should you know before substituting apple cider vinegar?
Apple cider vinegar's mild fruitiness makes it versatile. In baking, it reacts with baking soda just like any vinegar. For health drinks, there's no perfect substitute-white wine vinegar with a drop of apple juice comes closest.
How do you substitute apple cider vinegar in a recipe?
A mildly fruity vinegar made from fermented apple cider, popular in dressings, baking, health tonics, and everyday cooking.
The best substitute for apple cider vinegar depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is White Wine Vinegar (1 tbsp apple cider vinegar = 1 tbsp white wine vinegar), which works well for dressings, sauces, pickling.
If you need a different option, Rice Vinegar + Honey (1 tbsp apple cider vinegar = 1 tbsp rice vinegar + 1/4 tsp honey) is another reliable choice. Rice vinegar is milder, so a touch of honey approximates the fruity sweetness of apple cider vinegar.
When substituting apple cider vinegar, 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.
What can you use instead of apple cider vinegar in specific recipes?
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I use instead of apple cider vinegar in baking?
Lemon juice or white wine vinegar both work as 1:1 replacements in baking. They react with baking soda the same way to provide lift and tenderness.
Is white vinegar a good substitute for apple cider vinegar?
White vinegar works but is more harsh and acidic. Dilute it slightly with water and note that it lacks the mild fruity flavor of apple cider vinegar.
Can I substitute rice vinegar for apple cider vinegar?
Yes, rice vinegar is a great substitute. It's milder and less acidic, so add a small pinch of sugar or drop of honey to mimic apple cider vinegar's subtle sweetness.