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Grenadine substitutes

The closest substitute for Grenadine is Raspberry Syrup, which works but the drink will taste a little different. Berry instead of pomegranate. In a pinch, use Fassionola or Cranberry Juice.

Swap it in 35 drinksLow and zero proofMake your ownQuestions

What to use instead of Grenadine

Substitute

Raspberry SyrupWorks, tastes different

Berry instead of pomegranate.

Same amount

FassionolaLast resort

A red tropical fruit syrup: same colour, different fruit.

Same amount

Cranberry JuiceLast resort

Tart and only lightly sweet; add a little simple syrup.

Same amount

Almost the same: most people won’t notice. Works, tastes different: still a good drink, just a different one. Last resort: better than skipping the drink.

Swap it in your drink

Pick a substitute to see how much to pour in each drink with Grenadine, how strong the drink ends up and when to adjust the sugar.

  • Bacardi Cocktail

    10ml (⅓ oz) Grenadine → 10ml (⅓ oz) Raspberry Syrup

    Same strength

  • Bahama Mama

    15ml (½ oz) Grenadine → 15ml (½ oz) Raspberry Syrup

    Same strength

  • Bahama Mama Mocktail

    15ml (½ oz) Grenadine → 15ml (½ oz) Raspberry Syrup

    Same strength

  • Bahama Mama Slush

    30ml (1 oz) Grenadine → 30ml (1 oz) Raspberry Syrup

    Same strength

  • Brain Hemorrhage

    3 dashes Grenadine → 3 dashes Raspberry Syrup

    Same strength

  • Cinderella

    7.5ml (¼ oz) Grenadine → 7.5ml (¼ oz) Raspberry Syrup

    Same strength

  • Dirty Shirley

    20ml (⅔ oz) Grenadine → 20ml (⅔ oz) Raspberry Syrup

    Same strength

  • Doctor Funk

    15ml (½ oz) Grenadine → 15ml (½ oz) Raspberry Syrup

    Same strength

Low and zero proof

An alcohol-free bottle can’t simply replace Grenadine: without the alcohol the drink needs rebalancing. These versions are worked out for you.

Make your own Grenadine

Real grenadine made from pomegranate juice - nothing like the artificial red syrup. Essential for Tequila Sunrises, Jack Roses, and Shirley Temples.

Time
20 minutes
Makes
2 cups
Keeps
2-4 weeks refrigerated

You need

  • Pomegranate juice, 100% pure, no sugar added2 cups
  • Granulated sugar2 cups
  • Orange flower water, optional1 teaspoon
  • Pomegranate molasses, optional, for depth1 tablespoon

Method

  1. Pour pomegranate juice into a medium saucepan.
  2. Add sugar and stir to combine.
  3. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until sugar dissolves.
  4. Once sugar is dissolved, remove from heat immediately.
  5. Stir in orange flower water and pomegranate molasses if using.
  6. Let cool completely before bottling.

Store in an airtight glass container in the refrigerator.

What is Grenadine?

A sweet, ruby-red syrup traditionally made from pomegranate. Adds colour and sweetness to cocktails like the Tequila Sunrise and Shirley Temple.

All 35 drinks with Grenadine

Questions about Grenadine substitutes

What is the best substitute for Grenadine?

Raspberry Syrup is the closest substitute for Grenadine, though the drink will taste a little different. Berry instead of pomegranate. Use the same amount.

What can I use instead of Grenadine in a Bacardi Cocktail?

Raspberry Syrup: swap 10ml (⅓ oz) of Grenadine for 10ml (⅓ oz) of Raspberry Syrup.

Can I make Grenadine at home?

Yes. Real grenadine made from pomegranate juice - nothing like the artificial red syrup. Essential for Tequila Sunrises, Jack Roses, and Shirley Temples. It takes 20 minutes and makes 2 cups.

More mixer substitutes

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