We’ve all been there – the moment when you need apple extract for a recipe and realize you don’t have any!
Many home bakers keep apple extract in their baking cupboards for flavoring a range of desserts, however, some do not.
Not to worry!
This article is here to help with five great substitutes for apple extract so your kitchen creations don’t have to suffer.
Sometimes we find ourselves needing something that isn’t immediately available or accessible.
That’s certainly true when it comes to cooking and baking recipes calling for an apple extract – however, that doesn’t mean you can’t make a suitable substitution if needed.
You just need to think outside of the box a bit!
What is Apple Extract?
Apple extract is a type of flavoring made from real apples that has been concentrated into a powerful, aromatic form.
The extraction process involves simmering down fresh apple pieces with water until it reduces to a thick syrup-like consistency.
This concentrate is then strained and mixed with alcohol to create a flavor extract.
It can be used as an ingredient in baking recipes or added to beverages for additional sweetness and natural apple flavor.
It can also be used in sauces, marinades, and other savory dishes where its subtle fruity notes will add brightness without overwhelming the other flavors present.
Apple extract is especially popular during the fall season when apples are in abundance but can be found year-round at most stores that specialize in baking ingredients or culinary extracts.
5 Best Substitutes for Apple Extract
Apple extract is a great flavoring for baked goods, but it can be difficult to find in stores.
Fortunately, there are several substitutes that you can use to give your recipes the same delicious apple flavor without having to purchase store-bought apple extract.
Here are five of the best substitutes for apple extract:
1. Pear Extract
Pear extract is a great alternative to apple extract.
It has a mild, sweet flavor that can be used in baking and cooking recipes in place of apple extract.
Pear extract is made from real pears, so it will provide an authentic taste to your dishes.
It has a light sweetness and subtle fruitiness that makes it perfect for many desserts.
Pear extract can also be used in savory dishes as well, such as marinades or sauces.
Its delicate flavor pairs nicely with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for added depth of flavor.
It’s easy to find pear extract at most grocery stores or online retailers, making it a convenient substitution when you run out of apple extract!
2. Apricot Extract
Apricot extract is a great alternative to apple extract.
It has a similar flavor profile, but it adds its own unique twist.
Apricot extract can be used in baking recipes such as muffins and cakes, as well as savory dishes like sauces and marinades.
Apricot extract is made from apricots that have been dried and ground into a powder before being mixed with alcohol or glycerin to create the flavoring.
The resulting product has a sweet taste with hints of tartness that makes it perfect for adding complexity to both sweet and savory dishes.
It’s also an excellent way to add fruity flavor without having to worry about using fresh fruit in your recipe since the extracts are shelf-stable for long periods of time.
3. Cranberry Extract
Cranberry extract is a great substitute for apple extract when baking.
It has the same sweet and tart flavor that goes well in many recipes, such as muffins, cakes, cookies, pies and more.
Cranberry extract can be found in most grocery stores or online.
When using it as a substitute for apple extract, use half the amount of cranberry extract called for in the recipe.
For example if the recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of apple extract use ½ teaspoon of cranberry extract instead.
It pairs especially well with other fruit flavors like orange or lemon zest to create a unique flavor profile that’s sure to please your taste buds!
4. Peach Extract
Peach extract is a great alternative to apple extract and will still add a sweet, fruity flavor to your recipes.
Peach extract has a delicate flavor that is slightly tart with notes of almond and vanilla.
It can be used in many different types of baking, from cakes and cookies to muffins and pies.
It pairs particularly well with other fruits like strawberries or blueberries as well as nuts like almonds or walnuts.
You can also use it in savory dishes for added sweetness and depth of flavor.
You can find peach extract at most grocery stores or online retailers, but make sure you check the label for ingredients before purchasing since some extracts may contain artificial flavors or colors.
5. Plum Extract
Plum extract is a great substitute for apple extract.
It has a sweet, fruity flavor that pairs well with cinnamon, nutmeg and other spices.
Plum extract can be used in place of apple extract in baking recipes such as pies, cakes and muffins.
It adds an interesting depth of flavor to dishes like oatmeal or yogurt parfaits.
The plum flavor also complements savory dishes such as pork chops or roasted vegetables.
When substituting plum extract for apple extract, use half the amount called for by the recipe since it is more potent than apple extract.
5 Best Substitutes for Apple Extract
Ingredients
- Pear Extract
- Apricot Extract
- Cranberry Extract
- Peach Extract
- Plum Extract
Instructions
- Pick your favorite substitute from this list.
- Prepare the rest of your recipe.
- Enjoy in no time!