Apple cider vinegar is one of those kitchen staples that shows up in everything, from dressings to drinks. But what do you do when you run out or just want to try something different? Fortunately, there are plenty of great substitutes that give you that same tang.
When it comes to salads, marinades or even baking, the right replacement can bring a new twist to your dish. You might even discover a new favorite ingredient along the way. Let’s explore some simple apple cider vinegar alternatives that keep your recipes fresh and interesting.
Why you need apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar has a few purposes in cooking and baking. Here are a few reasons why you need it:
- It helps tenderize proteins due to its acidity. That is why it is often used in marinades and other meat recipes like pulled pork.
- Apple cider vinegar enhances flavors and adds a sweet, tangy taste that balances out rich dishes like sauces and marinades.
- It acts as a leavening agent. When combined with baking soda, it creates carbon dioxide, which helps baked goods rise and become light and airy.
- Apple cider vinegar is a natural preservative due to its acidity and can lengthen the shelf life of some foods.
Common substitutes for apple cider vinegar
No apple cider vinegar? No problem. There are plenty of easy swaps using ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
Some options are more acidic, some are a little sweeter, but with a few tweaks, they’ll work just fine. The trick is to pick one that won’t throw off your recipe’s flavor. Here are some of the best substitutes and how to make them work.
White wine vinegar
White wine vinegar has a similar acidity to apple cider vinegar but it doesn’t have a fruity flavor. For that reason, it is best to add 1/4 teaspoon of citrus juice for every tablespoon of vinegar. White wine vinegar works in dressings, pickling and baking. It will add a more acidic flavor to baked goods, so incorporate a small amount of sugar or honey to balance it out. White wine vinegar works as a 1-for-1 replacement for apple cider vinegar.
White vinegar
White vinegar is more acidic and has a neutral flavor. It doesn’t have the fruitiness of apple cider vinegar, so it is best to add a small amount of citrus juice. Due to its acidity, white vinegar works best for pickling. It can be used as a 1-for-1 substitute for apple cider vinegar.
Unseasoned rice wine vinegar
Rice wine vinegar has a slightly acidic and tangy flavor. However, it doesn’t have a fruity taste, so add a quarter teaspoon of citrus juice or a pinch of sugar for every tablespoon of rice wine vinegar used. It works best in stir-fries, soups, salad dressings and rice dishes. Unseasoned rice wine vinegar can be used as a 1-for-1 replacement for apple cider vinegar.
Malt vinegar
Since it’s made from barley, malt vinegar has a slightly different flavor profile. It is more yeasty and has a slightly malty flavor. Add a small amount of citrus juice or a pinch of sugar to balance out the yeasty flavor. Malt vinegar works best in marinades, dressings and sauces, and can also be used for pickling. It works as a 1-for-1 substitute for apple cider vinegar.
Balsamic vinegar
Balsamic vinegar has a sweeter and fruitier flavor than apple cider vinegar because it is made with fermented grape juice. It works best in dressings and vinaigrettes. Balsamic vinegar also works great in dishes like fish, poultry, meat, coleslaw and roasted vegetables. It works as a 1-for-1 replacement for apple cider vinegar.
“Whenever I need a substitute for apple cider vinegar, I consider white wine vinegar or rice vinegar, because they both have a mild acidity that works well in dressings and marinades. I also once made a barbecue sauce using balsamic vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar, and it gave the sauce a richer, slightly sweeter depth. My thinking in choosing a swap is to find one that complements the flavors of the dish while keeping the tangy balance just right.”
— Kristin King, Dizzy, Busy and Hungry
Apple juice
Apple juice can be used instead of apple cider vinegar, but you need to make a few adjustments. Since it isn’t acidic enough, add a small amount of citrus juice or white vinegar to make up for it. If your recipe has sugar in it, you may need to reduce the amount of sugar slightly. Use 2 tablespoons of apple juice for every tablespoon of apple cider vinegar the recipe calls for.
Lemon juice
Lemon juice has a similar acidity and low pH level to apple cider vinegar so it works well as a substitute. It works best in desserts and other dishes that are made with lemon or other fruits. Lemon juice can be used as a 1-for-1 replacement for apple cider vinegar.
Lime juice
Lime juice has a similar pH and acidity, but it has a stronger flavor than lemon juice. It works best in marinades and salad dressings. Make sure the lime flavor complements the recipe you’re making. Lime juice works as a 1-for-1 substitute for apple cider vinegar.
Orange juice
Orange juice is slightly less acidic, but it doesn’t affect the outcome of most recipes. It adds some orange flavor and sweetness as it has a higher sugar content than the other options. It works best in marinades, salad dressings and some baked goods like breads and pie crusts. Make sure the orange flavor complements the recipe. It works as a 1-for-1 replacement for apple cider vinegar.
Final thoughts
Running out of apple cider vinegar doesn’t have to ruin your recipe. Plenty of easy swaps can still give your dish that perfect tang. Whether you grab another vinegar, a squeeze of citrus or a splash of juice, you’ve got options. Try one of these substitutes next time — you might even like it better.
Heidi is a vintage recipe blogger at Real Life of Lulu, where she focuses on recipes that are at least 50 years old, many from her grandparents’ kitchens. When she isn’t writing or baking, she loves spending time with her husband and three kids.