Some recipes call for it, but I’m not quite sure about what it is….can it be like Cointreau?

Yes, cointreau is a type of triple sec.  Basically, anything orange flavored would work, like grand marnier, but grand marnier is probably a little stronger.

Yes, it’s an orange liqueur, like Cointreau or Grand Marnier. Just use your favorite orange liqueur. I’d stay away from the really cheap brands and things like orange-flavored vodka, they mostly use artificial flavors.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Triple_sec
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cointreau
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grand_Marnier

Just make sure you reduce the quantity if you’re substituting triple sec with cointreau or grand marnier. I made True Orange Genoise last weekend and use grand marnier instead of triple sec. I did reduce the quantity but my cake taste a bit boozey . No complaints though, I love grand marnier!

Grand Marnier has a cognac base with the orange, while triple sec (Cointreau is a brand of triple sec) is just a straight orange flavor, with no cognac.  Both are lovely in cakes and buttercreams.

That’s good to know Julie. I will try Cointreau next time (yes, there will be next time with the Orange Genoise, it’s that good ).

Julie - 09 February 2010 07:04 PM

Grand Marnier has a cognac base with the orange, while triple sec (Cointreau is a brand of triple sec) is just a straight orange flavor, with no cognac.  Both are lovely in cakes and buttercreams.

That was a great explanation, Julie.
I was about to buy a bottle of Grand Marnier, but as I don’t like cognac too much I will change for Cointreau.
Thanks!

Thank you Julie, already have Grand Marnier, so I’ll give Cointrau a try!!!!

I love, love, love Grand Marnier with dark chocolate, the two together taste better than either alone.

Cointreau just tastes fresh and clean, of sweet/tart oranges.  I brushed that over ladyfingers a few days ago, and it is perfect for the delicate taste of a plain sponge cake.