Substitutes for Lemon Juice

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Acidic citrus juice used for flavor, preservation, and activating baking soda.

Can't find Lemon Juice in your kitchen? No problem! Below are 5 tested substitutes with exact ratios, perfect for baking, cooking, and everything in between.

Substitute Ratio Best For Dietary
Lime Juice 1:1 replacement dressings, marinades, baking, preserving
Vegan Gluten-Free
White Wine Vinegar 1/2 tsp vinegar per 1 tsp lemon juice dressings, marinades, sauces
Vegan Gluten-Free
Apple Cider Vinegar 1/2 tsp per 1 tsp lemon juice baking, dressings, marinades
Vegan Gluten-Free
Orange Juice 1:1 replacement baking, dressings, glazes
Vegan Gluten-Free
Lemon Zest + Water 1 tsp zest + 1 tbsp water per 2 tbsp lemon juice baking, dressings
Vegan Gluten-Free

How to Use

Very similar acidity and citrus flavor. Slightly more bitter.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best substitute for Lemon Juice?
The best substitute depends on your recipe, but Lime Juice is a reliable choice for most applications. Use 1:1 replacement.
What's a vegan substitute for Lemon Juice?
Lime Juice is an excellent vegan option. Use 1:1 replacement.
Can I use any of these substitutes interchangeably?
Most substitutes work well in their recommended use cases, but they may produce slightly different results. The notes above explain the differences and best practices.
Will the taste be affected?
Some substitutes may subtly change the flavor profile of your dish, but they'll work great in the recommended use cases. Start with the suggested ratio and adjust to your taste.

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