Substitute for Brandy: 4 Smart Options
The best substitute for brandy is Cooking Sherry at a Same amount (1:1) ratio. There are 3 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Cooking Sherry
Same amount (1:1)
You can use Cooking Sherry in place of brandy when needed. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
What are the other substitutes for brandy?
Apple Juice
Same amount (1:1)
Apple Juice is a workable stand-in for brandy. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
Orange Juice
Same amount (1:1)
Orange Juice works as a substitute for brandy in many recipes. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. It is especially useful in sauces.
Red Wine
Same amount (1:1)
You can use Red Wine in place of brandy when needed. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. This option is more concentrated than brandy, so small adjustments make a noticeable difference.
What should you know before substituting brandy?
Cooking Sherry is the easiest starting point because it stays closest to brandy in everyday cooking. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Absorption changes from flour to flour, so keep an eye on batter thickness and dough texture as you mix.
How do you substitute brandy in a recipe?
When a recipe calls for brandy and you need an alternative, there are 4 tested substitutes available. Cooking Sherry is the best overall replacement, used at a Same amount (1:1) ratio. The right substitute depends on the role brandy plays in your recipe: whether it provides flavor, texture, moisture, or structure.
The best substitute for brandy depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Cooking Sherry (Same amount (1:1)), which works well for most recipes.
If you need a different option, Apple Juice (Same amount (1:1)) is another reliable choice. Apple Juice is a workable stand-in for brandy. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
When substituting brandy, 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 Brandy?
Cooking Sherry is the best place to start for brandy. Use a 1:1 swap and then adjust after tasting if the dish needs a little more intensity or balance.
How many substitutes are there for Brandy?
This page lists 4 substitutes for brandy. The best pick depends on whether you want the closest flavor, similar texture, or simply the easiest pantry backup.
What is a vegan substitute for Brandy?
Cooking Sherry is a good vegan option for brandy. Start with a 1:1 swap and fine-tune after tasting.