5 Best Substitute for Creme de Violette

The sweet, summertime taste of Crème de Violette has enticed tongues since the 19^th century. It has a beautiful purple hue that is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the mouth, but what happens if you must find a substitute!? Below, we explore the options. 

Top 5 Substitutes for Creme de Violette

You can use either Parfait Amour, Crème Yvette, Violet Gin, Blue Curacao, or violet syrup as Creme de Violette substitute.

Each of these options will bring its own twist to your drink, whether you’re drinking it straight or using it as a substitute for Crème de Violette. The question is, what kind of taste are you going for?

1. Parfait Amour

While Crème de Violette is all about the summery violet flavor, Parfait Amour adds a little to that flavor. Parfait Amour is a combination of violet and rose petals. The violet and rose petals are mixed with almonds, orange peels, and vanilla to give the drink its uniquely sweet flavor. 

To substitute Parfait Amour for Crème de Violette is relatively simple. Just measure equal parts of the parfait amour and whatever other spirit you’re using and mix them. That’s it! 

The overall look of your beverage will be the same, but the taste will slightly differ. The vanilla and citrus flavors are much more prominent with parfait amour than they are with Crème de Violette. Your drink will reflect that difference, but it is the best substitute for Crème de Violette and it tastes great!

2. Crème Yvette

If you would rather have something a little sweeter, look no further than Crème Yvette! This drink is made with orange peels, vanilla, honey, blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries. This unique mix gives the drink a beautiful red hue. 

Unlike with the parfait Amour, since this drink is redder, you will not have that beautiful purple color. If that is a necessity, you can always add a few drops of blue food coloring to change the color. Beware of using too much though as it could affect the taste of your beverage. 

3. Violette Gin

If you’re looking for a substitute that has a more profound alcohol taste that still tastes sweet, this is the substitute for you. This alcohol still has a nice sweet violet taste but the alcohol taste is like a punch to your tastebuds. 

If this is your substitute choice, but you want less of the alcohol taste? You could always use less. One way to get a nice balance between the tastes is to use a ¾ cup of Violette gin with any cup of the spirit you wish to mix it with. From there, you can substitute the other ¼ cup with violet syrup. 

Violette syrup is another good substitute choice that we will discuss later, but here, it’s a good way to even out the heavy alcohol taste.

4. Blue Curacao

If your substitute must have a violet taste, this substitute is not for you. If it’s not required, Blue Curacao is a great alternative. This liqueur is made from dried orange peels and gives off a pleasant orange flavor. 

While Violette gin has a punch of alcohol taste, this one doesn’t. It’s not incredibly overpowering in the orange or alcohol tastes and makes it a great substitute. If the blue hue is an issue, just ad about 2-3 drops of red food coloring it will undoubtedly make a difference!

5. Violet Syrup

If you’re looking for something with a lovely violet taste without the alcohol. This is the perfect pick. This syrup is made with violet flowers and essential oils and has lavender and rose undertones to its taste. 

Substitution of this ingredient is easy as well. The ratio is 1 part to 1 part. This substitution can also be paired with any of the other substitutions to incorporate more of a violet flavor into your drink. 

If you are concerned about the visual differences between Crème de Violette and violet syrup, don’t be! It would be hard to find! They both look so much alike! 

Make Your Own Crème de Violette

If none of the above substitutes are really hitting the spot, and you have the time, you can actually make your own Crème de Violette.

This is pretty easy, you just need two cups of vodka, two cups of sugar, a cup of water, and a cup of violet flower petals. Your violet flower petals can either be fresh or dried. 

Step 1: In a sealable glass jar, combine your violet flowers and vodka. Let this sit for about 2 days. Remember to keep your jar away from sunlight. 

Step 2: After 2 days, strain and set the liquid portion. I like using a metal, mesh strainer for this part but you can also use something like a coffee filter or cheesecloth. I like the metal strainer because the holes allow for just a small amount of the violet pedals to slip through making it into a bit of a violet garnish that adds to my drink.

Step 3. While your liquid rests, cook water and sugar in a pot under medium heat. Stir the liquid continuously until the sugar is fully incorporated into the water. Once this is done, cut off the heat and let it cool. 

Step 4. Once your water and sugar combination cools, you can mix the two liquids. The easiest way to mix is to pour both into a glass container and shake it. Tada! You have your own homemade Crème de Violette! It’s that easy!

What Is the Flavor of Creme de Violette?

If you’ve never tasted Crème de Violette you certainly should! Crème de Violette has a sweet, floral flavor that has been likened to sweet tart candy. With a beautifully aromatic smell that is reminiscent of a bouquet that only adds to the experience of the flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Crème De Violette Have Lavender?

Yes. While violet pedals are the main ingredient, lavender is also used to enhance the taste.

How much alcohol is in Creme de Violette?

There is anywhere from 16% to 30% alcohol in Crème de Violette. It all depends on the brand you buy. 

How long does an open bottle of Crème de Violette last?

An open bottle of Crème de Violette lasts around 18 months. 

Can I make my own Crème de Violette?

Absolutely, you can brew your own Creme de Violette with the recipe above.

Can I use food coloring in my drink?

Certainly! Just start with 2-3 drops and stir. If you want your drink darker, you can use more food coloring.

If I don’t want to color my drink with food coloring, is there another alternative?

Yes. Violet Syrup is perfect! You will have the wonderful violet flavor along with the purple color you desire. 

Is there a non-alcoholic substitute?

Yes, Violet Syrup is a great non-alcoholic substitute!

Conclusion

Crème de Violette is a wonderful drink by itself but if you ever need a substitute, Parfait Amour, Crème Yvette, Violet Gin, Blue Curacao, or Violet Syrup will certainly do the trick. All you have to do is find the correct one to suit your tastebuds!