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Lime Juice substitutes

The closest substitute for Lime Juice is Lime, which works and barely changes the drink. Squeeze fresh: 1 lime gives about 25 ml. Lemon Juice also works. In a pinch, use Lime Cordial.

Swap it in 159 drinksLow and zero proofQuestions

What to use instead of Lime Juice

Substitute

LimeAlmost the same

Squeeze fresh: 1 lime gives about 25 ml.

Same amount

Lemon JuiceWorks, tastes different

Softer, different aroma.

Same amount

Lime CordialLast resort

Sweetened, so cut the recipe's 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 Lime Juice, how strong the drink ends up and when to adjust the sugar.

  • Airmail

    15ml (½ oz) Lime Juice → 15ml (½ oz) Lime

    Same strength

  • Ancient Mariner

    22.5ml (¾ oz) Lime Juice → 22.5ml (¾ oz) Lime

    Same strength

  • Añejo Highball

    7.5ml (¼ oz) Lime Juice → 7.5ml (¼ oz) Lime

    Same strength

  • Apple Ginger Slush

    30ml (1 oz) Lime Juice → 30ml (1 oz) Lime

    Same strength

  • Appletini

    15ml (½ oz) Lime Juice → 15ml (½ oz) Lime

    Same strength

  • Art of Choke

    3.75ml (¼ oz) Lime Juice → 3.75ml (¼ oz) Lime

    Same strength

  • Bacardi Cocktail

    20ml (⅔ oz) Lime Juice → 20ml (⅔ oz) Lime

    Same strength

  • Banana Daiquiri

    22ml (¾ oz) Lime Juice → 22ml (¾ oz) Lime

    Same strength

How they compare

Lime Juice vs Lemon Juice
PropertyLime JuiceLemon Juice
StrengthAlcohol-freeAlcohol-free
Sugar1.7 g per 100 ml2.5 g per 100 ml
TasteTart, Acidic, Citrus, Slightly bitterTart, Acidic, Citrus, Slightly sweet
AromaCitrus, Bright, Fresh, ZestyCitrus, Bright, Clean, Fresh
FinishClean, Refreshing, TangyClean, Crisp, Refreshing

Low and zero proof

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

What is Lime Juice?

Fresh lime juice is essential to countless cocktails, providing bright acidity and citrus flavour. Always use freshly squeezed for best results.

All 159 drinks with Lime Juice

Got Lime Juice? It also replaces

Questions about Lime Juice substitutes

What is the best substitute for Lime Juice?

Lime is the closest substitute for Lime Juice and barely changes the drink. Squeeze fresh: 1 lime gives about 25 ml. Use the same amount.

What can I use instead of Lime Juice in a Bacardi Cocktail?

Lime: swap 20ml (⅔ oz) of Lime Juice for 20ml (⅔ oz) of Lime.

More mixer substitutes

Out of Lime Juice?

Proof knows these swaps. Tell it which bottles you have and it shows the drinks you can still make.

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