25 Effective Egg Substitutes

Discover 25 of the best and most effective egg substitutes, right here and right now!

From now on, you won’t have to miss out on recipes with eggs because you can use egg alternatives to make an egg-less version. There are different ways to use eggs, and there is a right substitute for each recipe you want.

Today, you will know the egg replaces a thickener, a leavening or flavoring agent, a coloring agent, a glaze, a binder, an emulsifier, and more. I’ll also include a guide on how you can use them properly for your dishes.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to substitute eggs in whatever recipe you need them!

Measurement Guide

In every egg substitute option, you should always use the proper amount. Here’s an easy guide to know how much you need to get the effect of one egg:

Substitutes / Replacements	Amount needed (eq. 1 egg)
Mashed ripe bananas	¼ cup (or 4 tbsp)
Applesauce	¼ cup (or 4 tbsp)
Silken tofu	¼ cup (or 4 tbsp)
Buttermilk	¼ cup (or 4 tbsp)
Yogurt	¼ cup (or 4 tbsp)
Pumpkin puree	¼ cup (or 4 tbsp)
Condensed milk	¼ cup (or 4 tbsp)
Prune puree	¼ cup (or 4 tbsp)
Plant-based milk	¼ cup (or 4 tbsp)
Carbonated water	¼ cup (or 4 tbsp)
Mashed avocado	2 tbsp to ¼ cup
Nut butter (peanut/almond)	3 tbsp
Mayonnaise	3 tbsp
Aquafaba	3 tbsp
Gelatin + water	1 tbsp gelatin + 3 tbsp water
Cornstarch + water	1 tbsp cornstarch + 3 tbsp water
Oats + water	2 tbsp oats + 3 tbsp hot water
Arrowroot powder + water	2 tbsp arrowroot powder + 3 tbsp water
Meringue powder + water	2 tbsp meringue powder + 2 tbsp water
Flax or chia seeds + water	1 tbsp seeds and 2 ½ tbsp water
Xanthan powder + water	¼ tbsp xanthan powder + ¼ cup water
Vinegar + baking soda	½ tsp baking soda + 1 tbsp vinegar
Agar-agar or gelatin	1 tbsp agar-agar + 1 tbsp water
Commercial egg replacer	Depends on the product
Chickpea flour	2 tbsp chickpea flour + 2 tbsp water + 1 tsp oil (let sit for 5 minutes)

How to Use Egg Substitutes

Using egg substitutes always depends on how you intend to use eggs for a recipe. There are various reasons for using egg replacement in a recipe, whether baking or cooking. You can use it for:

• As a source of nutrients – necessary for health and growth
• As a binder (acts as a binding agent) – to provide structure
• As a leavening agent
• As a flavoring agent
• As a tenderizer
• As a coloring agent (egg yolk substitute)
• For glazing (egg white and egg yolk substitute) – egg wash
• As a thickener
• As an emulsifier
• To provide moisture

Egg Replacements for Baking

Substitutes / Replacement	Cakes	Brownies	Cookies	Bars	Bread	Pizzas	Pastries	Egg wash
Mashed ripe bananas	✔︎	✔︎			✔︎
Applesauce	✔︎	✔︎
Silken tofu	✔︎	✔︎
Buttermilk	✔︎	✔︎
Yogurt	✔︎	✔︎						✔︎
Pumpkin puree	✔︎	✔︎	✔︎
Condensed milk	✔︎		✔︎					✔︎
Prune puree	✔︎
Plant-based milk	✔︎				✔︎			✔︎
Carbonated water	✔︎	✔︎			✔︎
Mashed avocado	✔︎	✔︎
Nut butter (peanut/almond)	✔︎	✔︎	✔︎	✔︎	✔︎
Mayonnaise	✔︎	✔︎	✔︎					✔︎
Aquafaba	✔︎
Gelatin + water	✔︎	✔︎	✔︎			✔︎
Cornstarch + water	✔︎	✔︎	✔︎		✔︎	✔︎	✔︎
Oats + water	✔︎		✔︎	✔︎	✔︎
Arrowroot powder + water	✔︎	✔︎	✔︎		✔︎		✔︎
Meringue powder + water								✔︎
Flax or chia seeds + water	✔︎	✔︎	✔︎	✔︎	✔︎		✔︎
Xanthan powder + water	✔︎		✔︎		✔︎
Vinegar + baking soda	✔︎	✔︎	✔︎		✔︎
Agar-agar or gelatin	✔︎		✔︎
Commercial egg replacer	✔︎	✔︎	✔︎
Chickpea flour		✔︎					✔︎

Uses of Eggs

Eggs serve lots of purposes in cooking and baking. You usually use them for baked goods like bread, pie, cake, pastry, cookies, and more. This is because these eggs can provide structure, color, and flavor. 

Have you noticed how they double in volume when you mix them? This is because eggs are also leavening agents, especially egg white. Eggs also give moisture to food like pie for tender and soft results.

Additionally, you can use eggs for glazing. Brushing the pastry like pie and sausage with egg wash can give it a shiny golden brown finish and flaky texture. Most importantly, eggs can make your favorite dishes taste a lot better!

Egg Nutrition

Eggs are good sources of nutrients. They contain choline, vitamins, and antioxidants for energy and health benefits. These are also great for weight loss, brain function, and healthy vision! Below are the nutrition facts for one egg of this.

Calories: 63kcal	Carbohydrates: 0.3g	Protein: 6g
Fat: 4g	Saturated Fat: 1g	Polyunsaturated Fat:1g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2g	Trans Fat: 0.02g	Cholesterol: 164mg
Sodium: 62mg	Potassium: 61mg	Sugar: 0.2g
Vitamin A: 238IU	Calcium: 25mg	Iron: 1mg

Why Use Egg Substitutes?

Here are the primary reasons why you may be in search of egg replacements:

Egg Allergy

Eggs are one of the most common allergens for children and adults. Although some people outgrow this allergy, those who still have it may experience skin irritation, nasal congestion, indigestion, and other symptoms after consumption. 

Vegan diet

A vegan diet is a plant-based diet. Animal products, such as eggs, are not part of the vegan diet. Most nutrients in this diet come from fruits and vegetables. 

Egg intolerance

Egg intolerance is different from an allergy. According to Healthline, egg intolerance means you can still eat eggs, but you may experience side effects. The effects may include bloating, diarrhea, and nausea. 

Medical reasons 

Eggs are high in cholesterol and fat, which can cause complications for people with heart conditions. People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) also mentioned that eggs are a common source of salmonella and other food poisonings. 

Personal preference

Opting not to eat eggs may also be a personal choice. It can be due to religion or social beliefs. For instance, some people do not eat eggs due to animal cruelty in their production. 

Regardless of why you do not eat eggs, this article will provide plenty of alternative options!

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What Can I Use Instead of Eggs?

There are many egg alternatives, but some are more effective than others. Below are the best substitutes for eggs in baking and cooking alike.

Best Egg Substitutes for Baking

• Mashed banana
• Applesauce
• Tofu
• Buttermilk
• Yogurt
• Condensed milk
• Flaxseed (or chia seeds) and water
• Aquafaba
• Arrowroot powder
• Carbonated water
• Vinegar and baking soda
• Commercial egg replacer
• Nut butter

Mashed bananas

With the fruity and sweet flavor of mashed bananas, you can trust that they will make good substitutes for eggs in baking. They make fantastic binders and sweeteners at the same time.

What makes mashed ripe bananas one of the best egg substitutes? Leaf suggests using an additional leavening agent when adding mashed bananas to pastry. I especially suggest using them for baked goods with a sweet and fruity flavor.

Applesauce

Before using applesauce as an egg alternative, ensure its flavor pairs well with the dish you plan to cook. You can buy apples everywhere and at an affordable price and eat them fresh or turn them into applesauce.

Is applesauce an effective egg replacement? Of course! Applesauce is suggested if the recipe includes the egg as a binder. Our Everyday Life also suggests using it for spiced bread. Its sweet and tarty flavor also makes your dishes taste better.

Buttermilk

Buttermilk is a fermented dairy that has a thick and slightly lumpy texture. It also has a tangy and mildly sour smell and flavor to add excellent taste to dishes. Remember to use it for recipes that need its acidic quality.

How can you use buttermilk as an egg alternative? Add it to dishes that need moisture, such as cakes and muffins, to make them extra fluffy and soft. Start out with small amounts to get the hang of using it as an egg substitute.

Silken Tofu

Silken tofu is a moist Japanese product that contains lots of water. It is also a common part of a vegan diet. Moreover, it is known for its quality of becoming firmer as it loses moisture. 

Eggless Cooking also suggests using this for tender pastry, bread, and omelets! Adding another leavening agent is needed if you plan to cook food that expands. However, note that it can cause changes in the texture.

Yogurt

When is the best time to use yogurt as an egg alternative? It’s the perfect o option to use if you want to add a bit of tanginess to your dish. It also adds moisture for a tender texture.

Aside from using it for diet meals, what other recipes can you cook with yogurt? You might be surprised to know that as an egg substitute, it is also used for cakes, muffins, quick bread, pancakes, and waffles!

Condensed milk

While condensed milk has a different texture from eggs, you can still use it as a partial substitute. It is best to use it when you want to give your food a sweet flavor and a tender texture.

Is condensed milk an egg alternative ingredient? Yes, it is. You can also use it for cakes, desserts, and fillings for a creamy and tasty flavor. In some cases, it can even help with structure.

Flaxseed + Water

The combination of flax seeds and water is sometimes called “flax egg.” When you mix them, keep stirring until it has a glutinous consistency. It only adds a mild nutty flavor but it’s effective as a binder.

Have you tried using flaxseeds or chia seeds as egg replacements? Vegan Richa also suggests using it for cookies, burgers, and muffins. Note that it is not suggested to use this option if the recipe requires more than two eggs. 

Aquafaba

Ever wondered what aquafaba is? It’s the drained liquid from chickpeas! It has also been traditionally used as a thickener, binder, and stabilizer for plenty of dishes. and as a substitute for eggs.

How versatile is aquafaba as an egg alternative? In addition, it makes an excellent substitute for egg whites and whole eggs. Whip or whisk it until foamy to use. I also suggest using it for pancakes, cupcakes, meringue, mousse, creams, and more!

Arrowroot powder + water

According to The Spruce Eats, arrowroot powder is a white and flavorless powder that can last up to four years. It is popularly used for low-temperature cooking and quick stir-fry recipes.

Is it suggested to use arrowroot powder as an egg substitute? Definitely! You may also use it as a thickener, binder, or leavening agent for puddings, sauces, and other recipes.

Carbonated water

Carbonated water is a refreshing and sparkling beverage. It doesn’t just keep you feeling fresh, but it will also help you with your recipes. Just remember that it might not be the best for forming or binding ingredients.

Did you know that carbonated water is also an egg replacer? According to Cookist, carbonated water is one of the best substitutes for baked goods. It’s also advised to use it for pastries with a light texture, like cakes, bread, and cupcakes.

Vinegar and baking soda

You may be familiar with this baking soda and vinegar combination as a cleaning mixture. Today, here is a different approach to how to use them. I especially suggest this combination for leavening purposes.

Mixing these two can also make pastries light, airy, and fluffy. You can always use it for cupcakes, cookies, and cakes. Keep in mind that this option is best for recipes that require only one egg. 

Commercial egg replacer

There are plenty of commercial egg replacers you can buy and use. Most of them are suitable for baking but check the packaging for appropriate use. They’re ready to use from the box! 

Have you seen commercial egg replacers in your local grocery stores? Add them to your grocery list now because these can work wonders in baked goods, such as cakes, pancakes, and especially cookies!

Nut butter

Nut butter and other similar products like peanut butter and cashew butter are all-time favorite spreads for sandwiches and fillings for pies. Surprisingly, you can also use nut butter to replace eggs in dishes.

How will nut butter affect your recipes if you use it as an egg alternative? It may add a nutty taste to the recipes, and its creamy texture can also serve as a thickener or binder. Moreover, you can use it for muffins, waffles, cupcakes, and cookies.

Other Egg Substitutes

Gelatin + Water

It’s okay to use gelatin as an egg substitute as long as you use the unflavored variant. Just add water to a pot and add in the gelatin. Keep mixing it as you cook it in medium-low heat until it’s ready to add to your recipe.

Have you been thinking about how to use gelatin to replace eggs for recipes? This egg replacement is certainly suitable for pancakes, cookies, pizzas, and brownies. I especially suggest using it for food that needs a gelling agent.

Pumpkin Puree

Pumpkin puree is an organic and healthy egg substitute you can make at home. It’s also a great egg replacer for recipes that use cinnamon, caramel, and other similar ingredients for better flavor.

How can you turn pumpkin puree into an egg alternative?

1. Slice the pumpkin in half and scrape out the seeds.
2. Afterward, oven-roast or air fry the halves for 45 minutes at 180°C.
3. Then, let them cool and peel. 
4. Puree it using a blender, food processor, or masher. Add water if needed.
5. Finally, store it in the fridge or freezer for a longer shelf life. 

Cornstarch + Water

Cornstarch has many purposes, not just in the kitchen but also in the household. You might have used it as a thickening agent for soups, sauces, marinades, and other desserts.

What other uses are cornstarch and water suitable for? Use it for a moist yet firm texture for pudding, custards, and bread. It also works well for soups, stews, or sauces that are creamy and smooth. 

Oats with water

These oats are useful grains commonly used for weight loss meals, oat flour, fufu, and more. These are rich in protein and fiber for a balanced meal. But oats and water are also perfect for binding and adding moisture to your dishes.

What recipes can you cook with oats and water as egg alternatives? Try these with cookies, pies, bars, cake, cupcakes, and more! I prefer to make it with oat flour or oat powder to make it easier to use.

Xanthan gum + Water

Xanthan gum is a gluten-free ingredient that’s sticky. It is also perfect as a thickener or binder in baked goods. On the other hand, it is not suggested if you need to add moisture to a dish.

How effective is xanthan gun as an egg replacement? Bob’s Red Mill suggests using it with other leavening agents, such as baking powder and baking soda. Moreover, you can utilize this combination for cakes, cookies, and bread.

Mashed avocado

Avocados are creamy, delicious, and healthy ingredients that you might have already used for sandwiches, dips, and dishes. Today is the perfect time to discover another way to use avocados.

What are the best ways to use this creamy, smooth, nutty egg substitute? It can also be perfect for cookies, pies, and cupcakes. Using it as an egg replacement also helps with disposing of ripe avocados. 

Mayonnaise

Mayonnaise is a creamy, fatty, and smooth condiment that works well for baked food. It is also used in sandwiches as spreads. Not only will you use it as a spread, but it will also help replace eggs.

Have you tried using mayonnaise as an egg replacement? Just remember to use plain mayonnaise. It adds to dishes’ flavor, texture, and structure, especially cakes and cupcakes. You may also use it as an egg wash!

Meringue powder

Meringue powder is usually used for frosting and icing. You can also have it in different colors and pipe it into various shapes and sizes. This is also suggested if you only need an egg replacement for the egg white.

In what ways can you use meringue powder as an egg substitute? Use this for icing and souffles. Most meringue powder brands already have leavening agents, so they can be used as they are. 

Plant-based milk

Plant-based milk is suitable for vegan and gluten-free meals and drinks. It also has the texture of milk and added flavor and nutrients. This substitute also comes in different flavors like almond milk, coconut milk, and more.

How great is plant-based milk in egg-free cooking and baking? This is appropriate for desserts such as cakes, bread, and muffins to give the dessert an extra puff. Even the milky and creamy quality it adds makes dishes so much better.

Prune puree

Prune puree is a fresh, pureed fruit egg substitute highly suggested for desserts with chocolate, bananas, and pumpkin flavors. Using it as an alternative is also great for adding flavor and color.

Have you tested prune puree as an egg substitute for recipes? You start by adding it to batters for waffles and pancakes. You may also notice that the prune puree tends to darken the color of baked goods.

Chickpea flour

According to The Hidden Veggies, chickpea flour is a good substitute if you don’t want the flavor or texture to be affected. You can also make it home by putting the chickpeas in a blender or a food processor.

If you love chickpea flour, then you will love it in your dishes and desserts as an egg replacement. Why? This makes an excellent binder for vegan recipes for crepes, brownies, and pies.

Agar-agar or gelatin

Agar-agar is a plant-based ingredient that is commonly made from seaweed. It has a semitranslucent appearance once it sets and stabilizes. Just like gelatin, it is known as a gelling agent.

Have you been thinking about using agar-agar as an egg substitute, but you’re unsure how effective it is? Check the instructions before use, which is best utilized for cookies and cakes.

How Much Egg Substitute Do I Need To Replace An Egg?

Note: eggs vary in weight (ranging from 50 to 70g), size (small to very large), and volume (from 4 to 2.5 tbsp). 1 large egg is a ¼ cup (4 ⅓ tbsp/65ml/2.30oz). So, you’ll need to substitute the volume in your recipe. That’s to say, you’ll need to replace the same amount of the egg(s) you are leaving out.

For example, this delicious banana bread requires two eggs which can be replaced with ½ a cup of prune puree (or applesauce, yogurt, buttermilk, flax mixture)

What Do Vegans Replace Egg with?

There is no best egg replacer or substitution, but some are best suited for your recipe and your needs. Using ingredient substitutes is all about trying out different methods and elements.

Whenever you need an egg substitute, consider the recipe you are cooking. In like manner, consider the flavors you want to intensify, the texture you want to improve, and the outcome you want to achieve. 

So, what dish are you going to cook, and which egg substitute are you planning to use?