Picture this: You’re ready to whip up a delicious Moroccan feast. You’ve got all your ingredients prepped, spices measured, and tagine preheating. Suddenly, you realize you’re missing a key ingredient: orange blossom water.
This floral water adds a unique and delicate touch to many Middle Eastern and North African dishes. It can feel pretty disheartening to hit pause right as your cooking process is about to start.
But don’t fret. An orange blossom water substitute might be right there in your pantry, or, even better, you might already have something on hand to easily whip up a batch yourself.
It’s important to know that while it may not perfectly replicate the delicate floral essence of orange blossom water, several simple substitutes like rose water for example can help you achieve a similar flavor profile in your dishes.
This is especially good to know because orange blossom water can be tricky to find in traditional supermarkets. Finding an alternative with similar aromatic or flavor qualities depends on what you want to accomplish.[feast_advanced_jump_to]
Orange flower water is a popular ingredient in many recipes that adds a lovely floral citrus flavor. But what if you don’t have any on hand when a recipe calls for it? Not to worry – there are several excellent stand-ins you can use instead.
In this article, we’ll explore what makes orange flower water so special and look at the top recommended substitutes to recreate that magic when you’ve run out. Whether you use common pantry items like vanilla and orange zest or get creative with infusions and extracts, these alternatives ensure your dish still shines.
What is Orange Flower Water?
Orange flower water, sometimes called orange blossom water, is a clear, fragrant liquid made by steam-distilling bitter orange blossoms. It imparts a delicate citrusy perfume along with subtle floral notes. The bitterness of the Seville oranges prevents them from being eaten raw, but their aromatic peel and flowers are prized in cooking
A little bit of orange flower water goes a long way to add complex depth to both sweet and savory dishes. It’s especially popular in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines Common uses include pastries, puddings, beverages, salad dressings, marinades, and anywhere you want a touch of floral orange essence
Best Substitutes for Orange Flower Water
When you find yourself without this specialty ingredient, don’t let your cooking grind to a halt. Turn to your pantry and fridge for these recommended substitutions:
Rose Water
With its similar production process and delicate floral aroma, rose water makes the best direct 1:1 substitute for orange flower water. It lacks the citrusy notes but contributes a soft floral quality. Replace the orange flower water in a recipe with an equal amount of rose water.
Orange Zest
Freshly grated orange zest packs bright citrus flavor without the flowery element. For 1 teaspoon orange flower water, use around 1⁄2 to 1 teaspoon grated zest from an orange. Adjust to taste. The zest adds wonderful citrus essence to batters, dressings, marinades, etc.
Orange Juice
While not as complex as orange flower water, orange juice can provide nice citrus flavor in a pinch. Replace the flower water with an equal amount of juice, adding sugar if needed to balance acidity. Orange juice works in sauces, salad dressings, marinades, and more.
Orange Extract
For a more potent orange flavor, use a tiny bit of orange extract, which concentrates the taste. Start with just 1⁄4 teaspoon for 1 teaspoon flower water and adjust as needed.
Vanilla Extract
Vanilla provides a lovely floral note to complement the orange. Use 1⁄4 to 1⁄2 teaspoon vanilla extract per 1 teaspoon orange flower water. It adds warmth and richness.
Orange Liqueur
To add sweetness and orange flavor, swap in a liqueur like Cointreau or Grand Marnier. Reduce other liquids to account for the added moisture. Replace 1 teaspoon flower water with about 1-2 teaspoons liqueur.
Almond Extract
With its nutty, marzipan-like aroma, almond extract somewhat mimics the floral fruity essence of oranges. Substitute 1⁄4 to 1⁄2 teaspoon almond extract for every 1 teaspoon orange flower water called for.
Orange Oil
For an intense citrus punch, a tiny drop or two of orange oil equals about 1 teaspoon flower water. Use sparingly as it’s very concentrated.
Creative Twists
Don’t limit yourself to direct ingredient swaps. Try these crafty ideas to mimic orange flower water:
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Infuse cream with orange zest, then use the citrus-scented cream in place of flower water.
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Add neroli essential oil for the floral aspect along with orange juice for citrus flavor.
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Substitute jasmine tea or an edible flower like violets for the flowery notes.
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Use an orange-flavored tea or add orange bitters to drinks.
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Garnish dishes with pansies or nasturtiums to provide a floral accent.
Tips for Substitution Success
When using orange flower water alternatives, keep these tips in mind:
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Start with less substitute at first, then tweak to get the right orange blossom intensity.
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Consider how the flower water is used in the recipe and choose an appropriate complementing flavor.
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Allow for differences in the substitute’s taste profile and adjust other ingredients like sugar if needed.
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Savory dishes work best with zest, juice, tea, extracts or edible flowers as substitutes.
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For sweets, rose water, vanilla, almond extract, liqueurs and infusions make good stand-ins.
Make Your Own Orange Flower Water
You can even DIY orange flower water at home if you can source fresh, organic orange blossoms. Simply layer the blossoms in a mason jar, cover with a neutral spirit like vodka, and infuse for 2 to 3 weeks. Strain out the blossoms then dilute the infusion with water and simple syrup to taste.
So don’t let a lack of specialty orange flower water derail your cooking plans. With a versatile array of substitutes, from common vanilla extract to floral rose water, you can still achieve that magical orange blossom essence. Get creative with your ingredients and garnishes. Next time a recipe calls for it, you’ll be ready with an arsenal of top-notch backups.
What Can I Use as an Orange Blossom Water Substitute?
When considering substitutes, keep in mind that they can influence the overall outcome of the dish. Consider the intended use of orange blossom water (also called orange flower water in the culinary world) in your recipe and find an appropriate orange flower water substitute to achieve the desired pleasant taste and flavor.
Are you orange extracts in baked goods, a savory tagine, or perhaps a refreshing beverage? Fortunately, there are several orange blossom water substitutes that can help you achieve a similar flavor profile in your dishes.
Orange blossom water lends a beautiful, delicate touch to pastries and desserts. If you find yourself without it while baking, consider these substitutes:
Additionally, you can consider using orange flavor enhancements to replicate the citrusy flavor in your baked goods.
Rose water, a common ingredient in many recipes, shares a similar floral sweetness with orange blossom water. Orange blossom water is made by distilling the petals of bitter orange blossoms in water, giving it a unique floral and citrusy flavor.
You can use it as a direct, one-to-one replacement in most recipes, but you might need slightly more, as it’s milder than orange blossom water. Use it sparingly to avoid overpowering other flavors, ensuring a delicate and nuanced floral touch in your baked goods.
Best for: Rose water serves as a great substitute for orange blossom water in baking, Middle Eastern pastries, cakes, or puddings, imparting a floral and slightly sweet essence to recipes. It offers a distinct floral note that complements ingredients such as almonds, pistachios, and citrus fruits superbly.
For a more pronounced citrus flavor, try using orange zest; grated orange peels as orange blossom water substitutes. The flavor of orange zest is similar to biting on orange peel, providing a bright and citrusy taste.
Use about one teaspoon of finely grated orange zest for every tablespoon of orange blossom water the recipe calls for.
Use finely grated orange zest to achieve the desired citrus punch without altering the texture of your baked goods. Adjust the amount according to your taste preference to bring out the overall flavor profile of your recipe.
Best for: Orange zest substitutes for orange blossom water in recipes like cakes, cookies, or scones, providing a fresh citrusy flavor and aroma. It infuses them with a bright, zesty essence that complements both sweet and savory dishes beautifully.
Try these substitutes for orange zest: 13 Best Orange Zest Substitutes
A more potent option than orange zest, use orange extract sparingly. Start with just a few drops to replace a tablespoon of orange blossom water and adjust to taste. Another potent alternative is orange oil, which offers a concentrated orange and citrusy flavor with mild floral notes.
Best for: Orange extract is another excellent substitute for orange blossom water in recipes like cakes, muffins, or frostings, offering a concentrated orange flavor and aroma, similar to orange zest but more potent.
If youre looking to add warmth and a touch of sweetness, try incorporating a little vanilla extract. Use half a teaspoon for every tablespoon of orange blossom water called for.
Adjust the quantity based on your preference, keeping in mind that vanilla extract will impart a different but complementary flavor profile compared to orange blossom water.
Best for: Vanilla extract is a versatile stand-in for orange blossom water in cakes, cookies, or custards. While it doesnt replicate the citrusy flavor of orange blossom water, it adds a rich, sweet, and aromatic profile to baked goods.
Substitutes for Savory Dishes
In savory applications, like tagines or marinades, where orange blossom water adds depth and fragrance, try these substitutions: These substitutes provide a strong orange taste that complements savory ingredients.
Opt for a good quality orange juice without pulp to replicate a milder citrus note as orange blossom water substitutes. A one-to-one substitution usually works well. You can always start with less and add more to taste. Orange blossom water is made from the distillation of orange blossoms, giving it a unique floral and citrusy flavor.
The orange juice adds a bright and zesty note that complements savory ingredients, providing a burst of freshness and enhancing the overall taste of your dish. Adjust the amount of orange juice to achieve the desired level of citrus flavor, ensuring it balances well with other savory elements in your recipe.
Best for: Orange juice can serve as a direct substitute for orange blossom water in savory dishes, marinades for chicken or fish, salad dressings, or glazes for roasted vegetables, offering a tangy and citrusy flavor profile.
Cointreau, Grand Marnier, or Triple Sec work well. They add a complex, zesty flavor to both desserts and savory recipes. Start with half the amount of orange blossom water called for, as liqueurs tend to be stronger in flavor.
Best for: Orange liqueur works well as a perfect substitute for orange blossom water in savory dishes, sauces, marinades, or glazes for meats and seafood. Its sweet and citrusy notes add depth and complexity. Use it sparingly to avoid overwhelming the dish with alcohol, ensuring the orange flavor compliments the savory components without dominating.
Honey is great for adding natural sweetness and depth, especially to savory dishes that could use a touch of warmth and complexity. Adjust the amount of honey to balance with other savory ingredients, ensuring it harmonizes well with the overall dish.
Best for: Honey offers a subtle sweetness and viscosity as a substitute for orange blossom water that can complement savory dishes and recipes like marinades, salad dressings, or glazes for meats and vegetables.
For beverages, cocktails, or even mocktails, the citrusy and slightly floral notes of orange blossom water can be substituted with:
Orange bitters are a bartenders best friend, offering a complex citrus profile. Just a dash or two in your cocktails or mocktails will make all the difference.
Best for: Orange bitters can effectively substitute for orange blossom water in cocktails like Old Fashioneds, Martinis, or mocktails to impart a distinct highly concentrated orange essence and complexity, offering a concentrated citrusy and slightly bitter flavor. Start with a few dashes, adjusting to taste.
Since rose water plays a prominent role in many Middle Eastern drinks, try substituting it in beverages where orange blossom water is desired. Remember, it has a lighter floral aroma. It’s best to incorporate it gradually.
Best for: Rose water serves as an excellent substitute for orange blossom water in cocktails like spritzers, lemonades, or mocktails, adding a refreshing and aromatic touch, and imparting a floral and delicate flavor profile. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste to achieve the desired floral essence in your drink.
Note: Another option is cherry extract as a substitute for orange flower, which offers an intense floral taste and can be used as a substitute in various beverages.
Substituting orange flower water doesn’t have to be an exact science. Feel empowered to experiment in the kitchen. You are in control of what flavors you like. However, to help guide you along, here are some helpful tips to help make sure your culinary creations turn out delicious:
- Start small: When substituting orange blossom water with a new ingredient, start with smaller quantities.
- Adjust to taste: Once you’ve added a small amount, taste and decide if you would like more. This helps prevent an overpowering flavor and ensures you get the flavor profile just right.
- Consider using orange flavor enhancements to achieve the desired citrusy flavor in your dishes. Opt for natural versions to avoid artificial ingredients and start with a small amount, adjusting as needed.
- Read your recipes thoroughly: Before you begin, fully read through the instructions.
- Enjoy the process: Experimenting is half the fun.
There are quite a few suitable replacements for orange blossom water. Some good alternatives include rose water, orange zest, orange extract, orange liqueur, or even a combination of these, depending on your recipe. It really comes down to your taste preferences.
To perform a taste test, use half the amount of orange blossom water substitute and adjust to taste, as it may require twice the amount for the desired flavor.
Although you can’t quite recreate orange blossom water, you can make a good substitute with just orange zest and sweet wine. Orange blossom water is traditionally made by distilling the petals of bitter orange blossoms in water. Let the orange zest infuse the sweet white wine for at least 24 hours for delicately sweet and subtly citrus-flavored water that mimics the flavor of real orange blossom water.
Not at all. Orange blossom water is made from distilling the fragrant blossoms of the bitter orange tree, while orange extract comes from the peel of the orange fruit. While they both share citrusy elements, they have distinct flavor profiles.
Orgeat, a sweet almond syrup commonly used in cocktails, sometimes calls for orange blossom water. If you dont have any, try substituting an equal amount of almond extract. You can also experiment with a combination of almond and vanilla extracts for added complexity.
It’s certainly frustrating when a highly anticipated baking session gets put on hold due to a missing ingredient. Finding the perfect orange blossom water substitute can sometimes feel intimidating, but I assure you, it’s easier than you think.
With a little bit of knowledge from above, you’ll have your recipe back on track in no time and possibly find your new favorite ingredient that provides a similar orange taste to orange blossom water!
How to make Orange Blossom Water | DIY recipe
FAQ
What can replace orange blossom water?
If you are using the orange flower water in baking then very finely grated orange zest or 2-3 of drops of orange oil can be used as an alternative. The water is quite delicate so the zest of 1/2 to 1 full orange should be enough.
How to make orange flower water?
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1. Gather your materials:You’ll need fresh orange blossoms, a jar with a lid, distilled water, and a mortar and pestle.
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The Spruce Eatshttps://www.thespruceeats.comMake Your Own Orange Flower Water – The Spruce EatsJan 13, 2023 — The traditional method of making pure orange flower water requires steam distillation in special copper equipment known as a still or katara in Moro…
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2. Prepare the blossoms:Macerate the petals (crush them gently) using a mortar and pestle, says the Spruce Eats. This helps release the fragrance.
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The Spruce Eatshttps://www.thespruceeats.comMake Your Own Orange Flower Water – The Spruce EatsJan 13, 2023 — The traditional method of making pure orange flower water requires steam distillation in special copper equipment known as a still or katara in Moro…
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Instagram · diana_yen_https://www.instagram.comDiana Yen | Orange Blossom Water// I think the reason to make something …May 3, 2024 — Macerate the orange blossoms in a mortar and pestle; let sit for 2 hours. Leave the jar, with the lid on, in the sun for a week, and check the scent.
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3. Incorporate the blossoms:Place the macerated petals in a jar, says Food.com. Add distilled water, leaving some space at the top, according to Food.com.
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4. Sunlight infusion:Seal the jar tightly and place it in a sunny location, says Diana Yen on Instagram. Check the scent periodically, adding more water if needed, notes Food.com.
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5. Strain and store:After a week or two, strain the liquid into sterilized jars with lids and store them in the refrigerator, says Diana Yen on Instagram.
Is orange flower water the same as orange extract?
While orange extract is made from the orange fruit itself, orange blossom water is the essence captured from the flowers of the bitter orange tree (which are also referred to as Seville oranges, its name a nod to the Spanish city).
What is a substitute for orange blossom water in baklava?
Instead of orange blossom water, substitute with rose water for another floral flavor. If the floral waters are not available, you can omit and make the simple syrup with cinnamon and lemon peel.
Can I use orange flower water as a substitute?
You can use substitutes but it depends on how the orange flower water is being used. If you are using the orange flower water in baking then very finely grated orange zest or 2-3 of drops of orange oil can be used as an alternative. The water is quite delicate so the zest of 1/2 to 1 full orange should be enough.
What is a good substitute for orange blossom water?
Orange liqueur of just about any kind can serve as a good replacement for orange blossom water, although it must be mentioned that this is an alcoholic substance that shouldn’t be used in recipes if children are going to eat the food being prepared too. It may be a little sharp tasting, but that can be fixed by mixing it with a little sugar.
Can you use orange liqueur instead of orange flower water?
Use an equal amount of orange liqueur as a substitute for orange flower water in your recipes. One is solid while the other is liquid, but orange zest can substitute orange flower water in many dishes. The zest is the brightly colored outermost part of the orange.
Can I use orange oil instead of orange blossom water?
Psst… you can also try St Germaine for more of a flowery flavor, it’s an elderflower based liqueur. Orange oil is extracted from orange peel and 2-3 drops will be enough to replace orange blossom water in your baking recipes. And I mean just 2-3 drops – its flavor is very potent! A heads up, though.
Can you use orange zest instead of orange blossom water?
You can use the orange zest as an alternative in a variety of different desserts and baking recipes involving the orange flower water, and it can be used for some other types of foods as well. You’ll have to look up exactly what proportion of orange zest to orange blossom water needs to be substituted depending on the recipe that you’re following.
Can you use rose water instead of orange blossom water?
Best for: Rose water can be used instead of orange blossom water in baking, Middle Eastern pastries, cakes, and puddings. It gives recipes a floral and slightly sweet flavor. It offers a distinct floral note that complements ingredients such as almonds, pistachios, and citrus fruits superbly.