Let’s go over how you can make bitters without alcohol.
What are Homemade Bitters?
Homemade bitters, a key ingredient in cocktail making. Serve as a powerful flavor enhancer. To create homemade bitters, a mixture of herbs, spices, and other elements are infused in high proof alcohol. Incorporating bitters into cocktails allows mixologists to enhance the complexity and depth of flavors. Especially in classic drinks like the Old Fashioned and the Manhattan. Additionally. These natural flavoring agents can also be added to non alcoholic beverages and culinary creations.

How Can You Make Bitters Without Alcohol?
Bitters are a highly regarded component in cocktails because they bring depth, complexity, and balance to the drink. However the traditional method of making bitters involves steeping herbs, spices, and other ingredients in high proof alcohol. This may not be suitable for everyone, especially those who don’t consume alcohol. In this blog post.
We will explore alternative methods for creating bitters without alcohol.
To begin with its’ important to understand what bitters actually are. Bitters are concentrated flavorings frequently used in cocktails. They infuse a combination of herbs, spices, and other ingredients into high proof alcohol to produce a rich and complex taste. They have long been utilized in classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned and the Manhattan.
Moreover they can also be employed in non alcoholic beverages and cooking. For those interested in crafting non alcoholic bitters.
There are several options available.
One alternative is to utilize vinegar or glycerin as a base instead of high proof alcohol.
Here is an easy recipe for non alcoholic bitters:
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups apple cider vinegar or vegetable glycerin
- 1/2 cup chopped dried herbs (such as gentian, chamomile, or wormwood)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh ginger
- 1 tablespoon allspice berries
- 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions:
- Combine all the ingredients in a clean jar. 2.
Cover the jar and allow it to sit for approximately two weeks while shaking it every few days.
- After two weeks have passed strain the mixture and discard any solids.
- Transfer the bitters into bottles and savor them in your preferred cocktails.
Alternatively glycerin can be used as a sweet syrupy substitute when creating non alcoholic bitters. Here is a recipe specifically for glycerin based bitters:
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups vegetable glycerin
- 1/2 cup chopped dried herbs (such as gentian, chamomile, or wormwood)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh ginger
- 1 tablespoon allspice berries
- 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions:
- Combine all the ingredients in a clean jar.
Creating bitters without alcohol opens up opportunities for individuals who wish to experience the flavor and depth they bring without consuming alcohol. These alternatives can be easily incorporated into various beverage and culinary creations. To create your own non alcoholic bitters. Simply cover the jar containing your mixture with a lid and allow it to sit undisturbed for approximately two weeks. During this time remember to give it a gentle shake every few days. Once the two week period has passed. Strain the liquid and dispose of any solid particles. Now you can bottle your bitters for future use in your favorite cocktails. It is worth noting that by using vinegar and glycerin as an alternative to high proof alcohol as a base individuals who do not consume alcohol are still able to enjoy these flavorful additions. They can be used to enhance the depth and complexity of cocktails. As well as in non alcoholic beverages and cooking recipes. It is important to exercise patience during this process as allowing the flavors of your bitters to fully develop requires at least two weeks. So get mixing and enjoy experimenting with these delightful creations!
Here are some resources I recommend:
120 Alcoholic Drinks for Connoisseurs shows you over one hundred unique alcoholic drinks to make and show off to your friends and have a night you won’t forget.
Professional Bartender Kit is a must-have collection for anyone interested in bartending, mixology, or someone who loves to make drinks.
RUBY Decanter w/ Built-in Aerator is easily the best on the market that we recommend.
8oz Premium Flask for when you’re going out and don’t want to blow all your money on drinks.
Stainless Steel Cooling Stones for keeping your drinks cold and classy.
Bartending & Mixology Masterclass teaches you everything you need to know about mixing drinks and alcoholic beverages like a professional.