Creme de Violette is a delicate, floral liqueur with a distinctive violet aroma and flavor. It’s a classic ingredient in cocktails like the Aviation, where it adds a touch of sweetness and a beautiful purple hue. However, finding Creme de Violette can be difficult in some areas, and it can also be quite expensive. Luckily, there are several substitutes for Creme de Violette that can work just as well in cocktails. In this article, we will explore the seven best substitutes for Creme de Violette.
What is Creme de Violette?
Creme de violette, also referred to as Violet Liqueur, is a liqueur that is often simply known as violet. It typically has a lavender hue and is made from a blend of hibiscus leaves, violets, lavender, and borage. Creme de violette can have either a citrusy flavor or a sweeter taste that includes notes of honey.
According to historical records, Creme de violette was first used in cocktails in the 19th century. During that time, there were not many sophisticated cocktails that used this liqueur, so it was commonly served on its own or paired with vermouth. However, today it is a popular ingredient in many variations of craft cocktails.
Best Creme de Violette Substitutes
1. Creme Yvette
Creme Yvette is a liqueur made with berries, vanilla, and violet petals. It has a similar floral flavor to Creme de Violette, but it’s slightly sweeter and more complex.
Creme Yvette is a great substitute for Creme de Violette in cocktails like the Aviation, where it adds a subtle sweetness and floral note. It can also be used in other cocktails that call for Creme de Violette, such as the Blue Moon or the Blue Danube.
2. Violet Liqueur
As the name suggests, Violet Liqueur is made specifically from violet petals. It has a delicate floral aroma and flavor, with a slightly bitter aftertaste. Violet Liqueur is a great substitute for Creme de Violette in cocktails where you want a strong violet flavor, like the Aviation or the Violet Fizz.
3. Parfait Amour
Parfait Amour is a purple liqueur with a complex flavor profile that includes orange, vanilla, and almonds, as well as violet. It has a sweet, floral taste with a hint of citrus. Parfait Amour is a versatile substitute for Creme de Violette that can be used in a variety of cocktails, such as the Blue Moon, the Clover Club, or the French Pearl.
4. Violet Syrup
Violet Syrup is a syrup made from violet petals and sugar. It has a strong floral aroma and a sweet, slightly tangy flavor. Violet Syrup is a great substitute for Creme de Violette in cocktails where you want a strong violet flavor, such as the Aviation or the Violet Fizz. It can also be used in non-alcoholic drinks like lemonade or iced tea for a floral twist.
5. Hibiscus Syrup
Hibiscus Syrup is a syrup made from hibiscus flowers with a similar floral flavor to violet. It has a bright red color and a tart, fruity flavor. Hibiscus Syrup is a great substitute for Creme de Violette in cocktails where you want a floral note but also a tart, fruity flavor, such as the Hibiscus Sour or the Hibiscus Margarita.
6. Elderflower Liqueur
Elderflower Liqueur is a liqueur made from elderflowers with a similar floral flavor to violet, but with a slightly more herbal taste. It has a sweet, fruity flavor with a hint of citrus. Elderflower Liqueur is a great substitute for Creme de Violette in cocktails like the Aviation, where it adds a sweet, floral note. It can also be used in other cocktails that call for Creme de Violette, such as the Blue Moon or the Blue Danube.
7. Lavender Syrup
Lavender Syrup is a syrup made from lavender with a floral, slightly herbaceous flavor. It has a sweet, floral taste with a hint of citrus. Lavender Syrup is a versatile substitute for Creme de Violette that can be used in a variety of cocktails. It works particularly well in cocktails that call for a floral note, such as the Lavender Martini or the Lavender Collins.
Conclusion
When substituting Creme de Violette with any of these alternatives, keep in mind that the flavor profile may be slightly different, and you may need to adjust the other ingredients in the cocktail accordingly. You may also need to experiment with the amount of substitute used, as some substitutes may be more or less potent than Creme de Violette.
In conclusion, while Creme de Violette is a delicious and unique ingredient in cocktails, there are several substitutes that can be used in its place. From Violet Liqueur to Lavender Syrup, there are plenty of options for adding a floral note to your cocktails. Experiment with different substitutes and find your favorite to use in your favorite cocktails.