A Beginner’s Guide to Bitters and How to Use Them

Bitters might be one of the smallest bottles on your bar cart, but they pack a powerful punch. Often referred to as the “salt and pepper” of mixology, bitters are concentrated extracts made from botanicals like herbs, roots, spices, and fruits, steeped in alcohol or glycerin. Just a few dashes can dramatically enhance the flavor, depth, and balance of your cocktails.

If you’re new to home bartending, learning how to use bitters can elevate your drinks from basic to bar-quality. This guide breaks down the different types of bitters, how to use them, and which cocktails benefit the most.

What Are Bitters, Exactly?

Bitters originated as medicinal tonics but quickly found their place in the world of cocktails. The most well-known brand, Angostura, dates back to the 1800s and remains a staple in both professional and home bars today.

Bitters are made by infusing alcohol with a blend of botanical ingredients — think dried orange peel, gentian root, cinnamon, cardamom, and dozens of other plants. The result is a highly concentrated liquid that adds layers of complexity and a touch of bitterness to drinks.

Types of Bitters You Should Know

There are dozens of bitters on the market, but these are the core categories to start with:

Aromatic Bitters: This is your go-to classic (e.g., Angostura). Spicy, herbal, and versatile.

Citrus Bitters: Made from orange, lemon, or grapefruit peels — great for bright, refreshing drinks.

Herbal or Spiced Bitters: Infused with flavors like lavender, cardamom, clove, or even coffee.

Flavored/Novelty Bitters: Think chocolate, chili, or celery bitters — excellent for experimentation.

How Bitters Transform Your Drink

Even one or two dashes of bitters can change a cocktail entirely. They work by enhancing certain flavor notes, balancing sweetness, and adding a touch of complexity. In spirit-forward drinks like the Old Fashioned or Manhattan, bitters are absolutely essential.

You can also use bitters in:

Sour cocktails (to balance acidity)

Highballs (a few drops on top for aroma)

Spritzers or mocktails (for extra depth)

Bitters also pair beautifully with food. A drop in soda water before a meal can even stimulate appetite!

How to Use Bitters: Tips for Beginners

Start Small: One dash at a time — bitters are concentrated and powerful.

Use a Dropper or Dash Cap: This helps control the amount more precisely.

Layer with Purpose: Don’t just toss them in — consider what flavors you want to bring out.

Taste Test: Add a few drops to sparkling water to get familiar with the flavor profile.

Want more guidance on when and how to use bitters? Our expert cocktail recipe collection includes beginner-friendly cocktails that feature bitters in just the right amount.

Cocktails That Use Bitters Beautifully

Old Fashioned: Bourbon, sugar, and aromatic bitters

Manhattan: Rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters

Champagne Cocktail: Champagne, sugar cube, and Angostura bitters

Sazerac: Rye, absinthe rinse, sugar, Peychaud’s bitters

These classics are a great starting point for experimenting with bitters. Once you get comfortable, try substituting different types to discover your own signature twist.

Bitters Beyond the Bar

Bitters aren’t just for cocktails. You can add them to:

Coffee (yes, really!)

Sparkling water

Baked goods and sauces

Marinades for meats or vegetables

Their botanical depth makes them surprisingly versatile in the kitchen, too.

Bitters may seem mysterious at first, but once you understand their role, they’ll become one of your favorite tools in cocktail creation. With a few essential bottles and a little experimentation, you’ll be able to transform even simple drinks into complex, elegant concoctions.

Explore more ways to mix with bitters, discover classic and modern recipes, and grow your skills with our complete beginner resources. It’s the best way to turn curiosity into confident cocktail crafting.