Substitutes for Lemon Zest

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Grated lemon peel used to add bright, citrusy flavor to baked goods, dressings, and sauces.

Can't find Lemon Zest in your kitchen? No problem! Below are 4 tested substitutes with exact ratios, perfect for baking, cooking, and everything in between.

Substitute Ratio Best For Dietary
Lemon Extract 1/4 tsp extract per 1 tsp zest baking, desserts, glazes
Vegan Gluten-Free
Lime Zest 1:1 replacement baking, dressings, desserts
Vegan Gluten-Free
Orange Zest 1:1 replacement baking, desserts, sauces
Vegan Gluten-Free
Lemon Juice 2 tsp lemon juice per 1 tsp zest baking, dressings
Vegan Gluten-Free

How to Use

Concentrated flavor. Use sparingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best substitute for Lemon Zest?
The best substitute depends on your recipe, but Lemon Extract is a reliable choice for most applications. Use 1/4 tsp extract per 1 tsp zest.
What's a vegan substitute for Lemon Zest?
Lemon Extract is an excellent vegan option. Use 1/4 tsp extract per 1 tsp zest.
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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