Recipe Scaling Calculator

How Recipe Scaling Works

When you scale a recipe, you want to preserve the ratios between ingredients while changing the total yield. The math is straightforward:

Multiplier = Target Volume ÷ Base Volume

Every ingredient amount is multiplied by this factor. If you're scaling from 1 litre to 5 litres, your multiplier is 5. An ingredient that called for 20 g now needs 100 g. One that called for 200 ml now needs 1,000 ml (or 1 L).

The calculator handles unit conversions automatically. If you enter an ingredient in litres, it keeps the result in litres when practical. Gram amounts are always scaled directly. This saves you from manual conversion errors when you're working with large batches or odd bottle sizes.

Accurate scaling is especially important in aperitivo making because balance is delicate. Bitters, in particular, depend on precise botanical-to-spirit ratios. A small scaling error can shift a recipe from vibrant to muddy.

For a deeper look at balancing botanicals and building recipes from first principles, see The Art of Aperitivo.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the recipe scaling calculator work?

Enter your base batch volume, target batch volume, and ingredient list. The calculator computes a multiplier (Target ÷ Base) and applies it to every ingredient amount. Gram amounts are scaled directly; ml and L are preserved in their original unit.

What ingredient format should I use?

Use one ingredient per line in the format: Name : Amount Unit. For example: Gentian root : 2 g or Neutral spirit : 500 ml. The calculator recognises ml, L, g, and kg.

Can I scale non-aperitivo recipes?

Yes. Any recipe with amounts and units can be scaled — bitters, liqueurs, tinctures, syrups, and other cocktail batches all work.

Related Tools

Once you've scaled your recipe, you may need to dilute the final batch to bottling strength. Use the ABV Dilution Calculator to work out exactly how much water (and optionally syrup) to add.