Updated on: 6/3/2025
Can I Substitute Grenadine Syrup With Something Else?
Running out of grenadine syrup doesn't need to derail your cocktail plans. Grenadine is known for its sweet, slightly tart character and deep red hue—traits that can be mimicked with a few smart alternatives using ingredients you might already have. Whether you want to avoid artificial colors or simply need a quick replacement, there are several ways to replicate its signature profile.
Why Substitute Grenadine Syrup?
Most commercial grenadine relies on high-fructose corn syrup and artificial flavors rather than the pomegranate that inspired the original. Some drinkers look for natural options, others seek similar color and flavor when grenadine isn’t handy. Understanding what grenadine brings—sweetness, tartness, and a rich red tone—helps you choose the best alternative.
Top Grenadine Alternatives and How to Use Them
- Pomegranate Molasses + Simple Syrup: Mix 15 ml pomegranate molasses with 10 ml simple syrup for every 25 ml grenadine needed. This closely mimics grenadine’s tang and color, with a richer fruit note.
- Raspberry Syrup + Lemon Juice: Combine 20 ml raspberry syrup and 5 ml fresh lemon juice as a stand-in for 25 ml grenadine. This offers a similar blend of sweetness, tartness, and color.
- Homemade Grenadine: Simmer 100 ml pomegranate juice with 100 ml sugar until dissolved. Cool and use equal amounts as you would grenadine syrup.
- Cranberry Juice Concentrate + Sugar: For a lighter alternative, combine 15 ml cranberry juice concentrate with 10 ml sugar syrup for each 25 ml grenadine needed. Expect more tartness.
- Cherry Syrup: If you have maraschino cherry syrup or a tart cherry syrup, use a slightly smaller amount (20 ml for every 25 ml grenadine) to avoid over-sweetening.
Flavor Considerations and Adjustments
Grenadine’s role isn’t just about color—it balances sharpness with sweetness. Substitutes with too much acidity or not enough sugar can alter a drink’s profile. If using a particularly tart ingredient, like straight pomegranate molasses, adjust with extra syrup to keep things smooth. With sweeter syrups, add a drop of lemon juice for brightness.
Best Drinks for Grenadine Substitutions
These substitutes work well across classic drinks such as the Tequila Sunrise, Shirley Temple, or a Ward Eight. The visual effect will stay close to the original—especially when using pomegranate molasses blends—while the taste may have greater depth and freshness than store-bought grenadine.
- Tequila Sunrise
- Shirley Temple
- Sea Breeze
- Ward Eight
- Clover Club (try raspberry-lemon method)
Tips for the Perfect Substitution
- Taste your substitute before adding to your drink, adjusting sugar and acidity as needed.
- Aim for a bold, clear red color for visual appeal.
- When using juice-based alternatives, reduce the liquid elsewhere to avoid watering down the drink.
