Running low on almond extract? Here are the best verified substitutes, including how to adjust your measurements.

About almond extract
Almond extract is a concentrated flavouring made by combining bitter almond oil (or synthetic benzaldehyde) with alcohol. It delivers an intensely sweet, nutty, marzipan-like aroma and flavour that is far more potent than whole almonds. It is widely used in baked goods, icings, and confectionery to add a classic, unmistakable almond character.
Best substitute
Vanilla extract is the most accessible swap and provides a warm, sweet complexity that complements the same baked goods where almond extract is used. It won't replicate the marzipan note but keeps the overall flavour balanced and familiar.
Alternative
Amaretto is an almond-flavoured Italian liqueur that shares the same benzaldehyde-driven flavour profile as almond extract. Because it is much less concentrated and contains alcohol, a larger quantity is needed, which may slightly affect the liquid balance of a recipe.
| Country | Name |
|---|---|
| Australia | almond extract |
| Canada | almond extract |
| New Zealand | almond extract |
| United Kingdom | almond extract |
| United States | almond extract |
Alternative
Marzipan is made from ground almonds and sugar, giving it a concentrated almond flavour that can stand in for extract when the recipe can accommodate a solid or paste-like ingredient. It is best dissolved or finely grated into batters rather than used in liquid applications.
Alternative
Cherry extract is derived from the same benzaldehyde compound that gives almonds their characteristic flavour, so it produces a very similar aromatic result. It is a lesser-known but surprisingly effective direct swap in most baking applications.
Alternative
Almond butter adds genuine almond flavour along with fat and texture, making it more suitable for recipes where a mild almond taste is acceptable rather than an intense extract-level hit. It works best in cookies, energy balls, and no-bake slices where the extra fat can be accommodated.