Yes, you can substitute white vinegar for apple cider vinegar with some careful adjustments. These two vinegars have similar acidity, but they taste quite different. Apple cider vinegar (ACV) has fruity, slightly sweet undertones, while white vinegar is sharper and more neutral.

Here’s what you need to know to make this substitution successfully.

Read next: Vinegar uses and substitutions

How to use white vinegar instead of ACV

White vinegar is more aggressive and lacks the subtle fruitiness of ACV, so the swap works best in savory dishes that don’t rely on ACV’s sweetness. Try this substitution in:

Pickling
Marinades
Braised dishes
Barbecue sauces and other sauces with strong flavors

You may be less successful using white vinegar in salad dressings or slaws.

Substitution ratio

To substitute white vinegar for apple cider vinegar, use ¾ tablespoon white vinegar + ¼ tablespoon water for every 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar. The added water softens white vinegar’s sharpness so that it better mimics ACV.

If the dish doesn’t taste sweet enough with white vinegar, you can add a small pinch of sugar or honey.

Tips for success

These strategies will help you swap in white vinegar for ACV successfully:

Start small and taste as you go. White vinegar can easily overpower delicate recipes. Even if you are diluting the white vinegar, it’s smart to start with less than the recipe specifies. Then, taste and adjust. If the dish gets too sharp suddenly, add sugar to offset it.
Dilute first. Don’t try this substitution without diluting the white vinegar first.
Consider sweetness. ACV naturally has subtle fruity sweetness. White vinegar does not. If your dish tastes funny after the substitution, try adding sugar.
Mind the color. In lighter dishes, white vinegar won’t change the appearance the way ACV sometimes can.

Other substitutes for apple cider vinegar

You might have something else in your pantry that will stand in as an ACV substitute. Here are four options.

Rice vinegar

Rice vinegar is milder and slightly sweet, closer in flavor to apple cider vinegar than white vinegar is. It is a better choice than white vinegar for dressings, slaws, and Asian dishes. You can make this substitution at a 1:1 ratio with no dilution necessary.

White wine vinegar

White wine vinegar has a clean acidity and subtle fruit character. It’s smoother and less sharp than white vinegar, so it works better as a substitute in salad dressings and lighter sauces. The substitution ratio is 1:1 and no dilution is necessary. Remember to taste and adjust.

Lemon juice

Lemon juice provides bright acidity but adds citrus flavor. It’s less harsh but more flavorful than white vinegar. You can use it in dishes that already have citrus or herb notes. Marinades, dressings, and seafood dishes are usually good candidates. Pickling recipes are less ideal.

Use 3/4 teaspoon lemon juice for every 1 teaspoon vinegar required in the recipe.

Balsamic vinegar, with caution

Balsamic vinegar is sweeter and darker than apple cider vinegar. It’s also far sweeter and less sharp than white vinegar. Only use balsamic in recipes where sweetness and darker color won’t be an issue. Start with 3/4 of the required amount of ACV and then adjust.

Recipes that use white vinegar

Carne asada. Carne asada steak is a flavorful, citrus-touched grilled beef dish marinated with ingredients like lime juice, garlic, and white vinegar to help tenderize the meat and brighten its flavor. The white vinegar’s acidity cuts through the richness of the steak and helps the marinade penetrate deeper for a juicier, more aromatic result.
Teriyaki pork chops. Teriyaki pork chops marinate in a savory blend where a splash of white vinegar tenderizes the meat and balances the sweetness of the sauce. The vinegar’s sharpness brightens the rich soy, brown sugar, and ginger flavors.
Taco Bell chicken burrito. This Taco Bell chicken burrito recipe features tender seasoned chicken that’s marinated with a splash of white vinegar. The vinegar’s acidity balances the savory spices and adds a subtle tang that keeps the chicken super flavorful.
Jerk chicken wings. These jerk chicken wings are seasoned with a vibrant blend of spices and a splash of white vinegar. The vinegar’s acidity lifts the robust seasoning and keeps the wings well-balanced as they cook.

BlogChef takeaway

White vinegar can substitute for apple cider vinegar if you dilute it slightly and taste carefully. In truth, rice vinegar or white wine vinegar often make better substitutes if you have those on hand — but this ultimately depends on the dish and whether you prefer acidity or flavor complexity.

Can I substitute white vinegar for apple cider vinegar?