There’s a good chance you’ve had benedictine before. It’s a delicious liqueur that has a sweet and herbal flavor.
Unfortunately, it can be expensive to buy in liquor stores. If you’re looking for an alternative, don’t worry – we’ve got you covered!
In this article, we’ll discuss 10 different substitutes for benedictine. We’ll provide the ratios to use as replacements and give examples of how each substitute can be used.
So whether you’re out of benedictine or just want to try something new, we’ve got you covered!
Benedictine Substitutes
- Drambuie
- Yellow Chartreuse
- Chartreuse liqueur
- Glayva
- Amaro
- Regular brandy
- Jagermeister
- Grand Marnier
- Fernet Branca
- Campari
Drambuie
Drambuie is a golden-colored liqueur made from spices, honey, herbs, and scotch whiskey. Benedictine is a French brandy-based liqueur that is also golden in color.
Although Benedictine is the more common of the two, Drambuie can be used as a substitute in many cases. One benefit of using Drambuie is that it is less sweet than
Benedictine, making it ideal for cocktails requiring less syrupy consistency. You can consume it on its own or with rocks.
Additionally, the hint of whisky in Drambuie can add an extra dimension of flavor to drinks. For these reasons, Drambuie can be a great substitute for Benedictine in many cases.
Yellow Chartreuse
Yellow Chartreuse is a popular substitute for Benedictine, as it is made out of herbs and contains 40% alcohol. It also tastes sweeter than Benedictine, making it a good choice for desserts. It contains citric, violet, anise, saffron, honey, and licorice flavors.
When substituting Yellow Chartreuse for Benedictine, be aware that it will impart a more assertive flavor to your dish. If you are looking for a subtler flavor, you may want to use less of the Yellow Chartreuse or add more other ingredients to balance out the flavors.
Chartreuse liqueur
Chartreuse liqueur is a Herbal liqueur made in France, and it contains 55% alcohol. It is the green version of Benedictine and is used in cocktails. You can also use Chartreuse liqueur in desserts to get a deeper and richer flavor.
Chartreuse liqueur can be used as a substitute for Benedictine because it has a similar flavor profile and can be used in the same way.
The benefits of using Chartreuse liqueur as a substitute for Benedictine are that it is less expensive and has a more intense flavor. When using Chartreuse liqueur as a substitute for Benedictine, you may want to use less because it is more potent.
Glayva
Glayva is a liqueur made from scotch and spices, and it originates from Edinburgh. The drink is often used as a substitute for Benedictine, and it can be used in many ways.
For example, Glayva can be used to make cocktails or mixed drinks. It can also be added to coffee or tea. Additionally, Glayva can be used in baking recipes as a flavoring agent.
The benefits of using Glayva as a substitute for Benedictine include the fact that it is less expensive and more readily available. Additionally, Glayva has a more robust flavor than Benedictine, which can benefit certain recipes or drinks.
Its main flavors are honey, almond, cinnamon, and tangerines.
Amaro
Amaro is a type of Italian liqueur that is made from a variety of different herbs and spices. It is often drunk on its own or used as a mixer in cocktails.
Amaro can be used as a substitute for Benedictine. Both liqueurs have a similar flavor profile, with citrus, spice, and sweetness notes.
However, Amaro is usually less sweet than Benedictine, and it also has a more bitter flavor. Nonetheless, Amaro makes an excellent substitute for Benedictine in cocktails such as the Vieux Carre and the Corpse Reviver #2.
When substituting Amaro for Benedictine, you may need to adjust the other ingredients in the cocktail to compensate for the difference in sweetness. For example, you may want to add a little bit of simple syrup to offset the bitterness of the Amaro.
Ultimately, whether you use Benedictine or Amaro in your cocktails is up to you – both liqueurs can make delicious drinks.
Regular brandy
Benedictine is a French liqueur that is made from distilled wines and spices. It is typically around 60% alcohol, making it a good choice for cooking soups and desserts.
However, Benedictine can be difficult to find in some parts of the world. One potential substitute is regular brandy. Brandy is made from distilled wine, and it contains a similar level of alcohol.
Furthermore, brandy has a similar flavor profile to Benedictine, making it a good choice for use in recipes. Of course, brandy is not an exact replacement for Benedictine, but it can be used as a substitute in many cases.
Jagermeister
Jagermeister is a German liqueur becoming increasingly popular as a substitute for Benedictine. There are several reasons for this.
First, Jagermeister has a unique, intense flavor that many people find appealing. Its main flavor notes are licorice, citrus, saffron, and spice.
Second, it mixes well with other ingredients, making it versatile for cocktails. Third, it pairs well with grilled food, making it popular for summer gatherings.
Lastly, Jagermeister is relatively inexpensive. For all of these reasons, Jagermeister is an ideal substitute for Benedictine.
Grand Marnier
Grand Marnier is a wonderful substitute for Benedictine. Hints of vanilla from the cognac give it a delicious flavor that is perfect for baking.
It is also amazing with poultry dishes, especially roasted duck. The orange flavor is a perfect complement to the bird. Grand Marnier is a bit sweeter than Benedictine, so keep that in mind when using it as a substitute.
Fernet Branca
Fernet Branca is a famous Italian liqueur made from 30 roots and herbs. Unlike Benedictine, which is made from Cognac and lemon peel, Fernet Branca is dark in color and has a strong mint flavor.
It is traditionally consumed after dinner as a digestive aid. While it can be used as a substitute for Benedictine in some cases, Fernet Branca is not as sweet or smooth. As a result, it may not be suitable for all recipes.
However, its distinct flavor can be a welcome addition to many dishes. When used judiciously, Fernet Branca can add depth and complexity to a dish that would otherwise be lacking.
Campari
Campari is a popular Italian aperitif that is often used in cocktails. It is bitter and contains herbs and fruit peel.
It is also cherry-red in color and a good substitute for Benedictine. There are several benefits of using Campari as a substitute for Benedictine.
First, it is less expensive than Benedictine. Second, it is easier to find Campari than Benedictine. Third, Campari has a more intense flavor than Benedictine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best benedictine substitute in vieux carre?
The best Benedictine alternative to use in vieux carre is Amaro. Due to its similar taste profile, Amaro gives the cocktail its classic flavor.
What is the best substitute for benedictine in Singapore sling?
If you are making Singapore Sling and can’t find Benedictine, use Yellow Chartreuse or Drambuie instead. These liqueurs have a sweet and spicy taste that complements the Singapore Sling amazingly.
In conclusion
There are many substitutes for benedictine that can be used in cocktails or recipes. Each has its unique flavor profile and benefits. Whether you are looking for an exact replacement or a new twist on an old favorite, there will be a benedictine substitute that will fit the bill. Have you tried any of these Benedictine substitutes yet?