Skip to Content

7 Licorice Root Substitutes That Bring the Sweet and Earthy Flavor

You’re in the middle of brewing a soothing herbal tea or crafting a batch of homemade cough drops, and the recipe calls for licorice root.

But as you rummage through your pantry, you realize you’re fresh out.

That distinct sweet, earthy flavor you were counting on is missing. Before you abandon the recipe, take a moment to consider this: Licorice root’s unique taste and medicinal properties can be replicated with ingredients you might already have on hand.

Licorice root, with its natural sweetness and grounding earthiness, is a staple in both culinary and herbal medicine traditions.

But whether you’re out of licorice root, avoiding its strong flavor, or just experimenting with alternatives, these swaps deliver the same depth and sweetness.

From pantry staples to herbal twists, here’s how to keep your recipes on track—no last-minute store runs required.


7 Easy Substitutes for Licorice Root

Licorice root’s charm lies in its sweet, earthy flavor and soothing properties. These substitutes mimic its taste and benefits while adding their own unique flair. Perfect for teas, desserts, or herbal remedies, here’s how to pivot without missing a beat:


1. Anise Seed: The Sweet and Spicy Twin

Anise seed is the closest match to licorice root’s flavor profile, with its sweet, aromatic, and slightly spicy notes. Use 1 teaspoon of anise seed to replace 1 tablespoon of licorice root in teas or infusions.

This substitute works beautifully in herbal teas or baked goods. I once used anise seed in a homemade chai blend when I ran out of licorice root, and the result was just as comforting. For a stronger flavor, lightly crush the seeds before steeping.

Pro tip: Pair anise seed with fennel for a more complex licorice-like flavor.
Need more anise ideas? Try these anise seed substitutes.


2. Fennel Seed: The Mild and Versatile Option

Fennel seed has a milder, sweeter flavor compared to licorice root, making it a great alternative for those who find licorice too intense. Use 1 tablespoon of fennel seed to replace 1 tablespoon of licorice root.

This swap is perfect for teas, soups, or even desserts. My friend, a herbal tea enthusiast, swears by fennel seed for her digestive blends. For a more pronounced licorice flavor, toast the seeds lightly before using.

Fun twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon for a warming touch.
Explore more in our fennel seed substitutes.


3. Star Anise: The Bold and Fragrant Choice

Star anise packs a punch with its strong, sweet, and slightly spicy flavor. Use 1 star anise pod to replace 1 tablespoon of licorice root in teas or broths.

This substitute shines in both sweet and savory dishes. I once used star anise in a mulled wine recipe, and the licorice-like aroma was a hit. For a milder flavor, remove the pod after steeping.

Pro tip: Crush the star anise slightly to release more flavor.
Love star anise? Check out these star anise substitutes.


4. Stevia: The Sweetener with a Twist

Stevia, a natural sweetener, can mimic licorice root’s sweetness without the earthy flavor. Use 1 teaspoon of stevia powder to replace 1 tablespoon of licorice root in teas or desserts.

This swap is ideal for those looking to reduce sugar while maintaining sweetness. My cousin used stevia in a licorice-flavored smoothie, and the result was surprisingly close to the original. For a more balanced flavor, mix stevia with a pinch of fennel or anise.

Watch out: Stevia is much sweeter than licorice root, so start with less and adjust.
Discover more in our stevia substitutes.


5. Marshmallow Root: The Soothing Alternative

Marshmallow root shares licorice root’s soothing properties and mild sweetness, though it lacks the strong licorice flavor. Use 1 tablespoon of marshmallow root to replace 1 tablespoon of licorice root in teas or herbal remedies.

This substitute is perfect for throat-soothing blends or digestive teas. My neighbor, a herbalist, uses marshmallow root in her cough syrup recipes. For a touch of sweetness, add a bit of honey.

Pro tip: Combine marshmallow root with fennel or anise for a more licorice-like flavor.
Get creative with these marshmallow root recipes.


6. Dried Figs: The Sweet and Earthy Swap

Dried figs bring natural sweetness and a subtle earthiness, making them a great licorice root substitute in desserts or teas. Use 2-3 chopped dried figs to replace 1 tablespoon of licorice root.

This swap works well in baked goods or herbal infusions. I used dried figs in a licorice-flavored cake once, and the result was rich and satisfying. For a stronger flavor, steep the figs longer.

Fun twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom for extra warmth.
Explore more in our dried fig substitutes.


7. Chicory Root: The Bitter-Sweet Option

Chicory root has a slightly bitter, earthy flavor with a hint of sweetness, making it a unique licorice root substitute. Use 1 tablespoon of roasted chicory root to replace 1 tablespoon of licorice root in teas or coffee blends.

This substitute is perfect for those who enjoy a more complex, bitter-sweet flavor. My brother, a coffee lover, uses chicory root in his morning brew for a licorice-like twist. For a sweeter result, mix with a bit of honey or stevia.

Pro tip: Roast the chicory root lightly to enhance its sweetness.
Find more ideas in our chicory root substitutes guide.