Whether you're embracing plant-based cooking, managing food allergies, or simply ran out of eggs, this comprehensive guide will transform your kitchen confidence. After testing over 50 recipes with 15 different egg substitutes, we've uncovered the secrets to perfect egg-free cooking.
Eggs serve multiple purposes in recipes: they bind ingredients, add moisture, provide leavening, and contribute to texture. Understanding these functions is key to choosing the right substitute. Some alternatives excel at binding, others at leavening, and a few can handle multiple roles.
In this guide, you'll discover 15 tested egg substitutes, learn which ones work best for specific recipes, and get expert tips for perfect results every time. Plus, we'll troubleshoot common issues so your egg-free dishes turn out amazing.
The 15 Best Substitutes
1. Aquafaba (Chickpea Liquid)
Substitution Ratio
3 tablespoons per egg
Pros & Cons
Pro Tip
Chill aquafaba and bowl for best whipping results. Save liquid from low-sodium chickpeas.
2. Ground Flaxseed + Water (Flax Eggs)
Substitution Ratio
1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg
Pros & Cons
Pro Tip
Let mixture sit 5-15 minutes to gel. Use golden flax for lighter-colored baked goods.
3. Unsweetened Applesauce
Substitution Ratio
¼ cup per egg
Pros & Cons
Pro Tip
Reduce other liquids slightly. Works best in recipes calling for 1-2 eggs.
4. Mashed Banana
Substitution Ratio
¼ cup mashed banana per egg
Pros & Cons
Pro Tip
Use very ripe bananas for best results. Reduce sugar by 2-3 tablespoons.
5. Chia Seeds + Water
Substitution Ratio
1 tbsp chia seeds + 3 tbsp water per egg
Pros & Cons
Pro Tip
Let mixture sit 15-20 minutes until gel forms. Grind seeds for smoother texture.
6. Commercial Egg Replacer
Substitution Ratio
1½ tsp replacer + 3 tbsp water per egg
Pros & Cons
Pro Tip
Follow package instructions. Ener-G and Bob's Red Mill are popular brands.
7. Yogurt (Plain)
Substitution Ratio
¼ cup per egg
Pros & Cons
Pro Tip
Use plain yogurt for best results. Greek yogurt works but is thicker.
8. Buttermilk
Substitution Ratio
¼ cup per egg
Pros & Cons
Pro Tip
Reduce other liquids slightly. Add ¼ tsp baking soda for better rise.
9. Vinegar + Baking Soda
Substitution Ratio
1 tbsp vinegar + 1 tsp baking soda per egg
Pros & Cons
Pro Tip
Mix just before adding to batter. Creates immediate chemical leavening.
10. Silken Tofu
Substitution Ratio
¼ cup blended silken tofu per egg
Pros & Cons
Pro Tip
Blend until completely smooth. Works best in recipes calling for 1-2 eggs.
11. Carbonated Water
Substitution Ratio
¼ cup per egg
Pros & Cons
Pro Tip
Use immediately while still fizzy. Works best with leavening agents.
12. Arrowroot Powder + Water
Substitution Ratio
2 tbsp arrowroot + 3 tbsp water per egg
Pros & Cons
Pro Tip
Mix until smooth paste forms. Works well in gluten-free recipes.
13. Pumpkin Puree
Substitution Ratio
¼ cup per egg
Pros & Cons
Pro Tip
Works best in spiced or chocolate recipes. Reduce other liquids slightly.
14. Sweet Potato Puree
Substitution Ratio
¼ cup per egg
Pros & Cons
Pro Tip
Cook and puree sweet potato until smooth. Works in colored baked goods.
15. Gelatin + Water
Substitution Ratio
1 tbsp gelatin + 3 tbsp water per egg
Pros & Cons
Pro Tip
Dissolve gelatin in warm water, then cool. Not suitable for vegans.
Essential Tools for Perfect Egg Substitutions
These professional-grade tools make egg substitutions easier and ensure consistent results every time.
⚖️Measuring & Mixing
Digital Kitchen Scale
Precise measurements are crucial for successful substitutions. This scale measures in grams and ounces.
Why it helps:
Accurate measurements ensure consistent results, especially with flax eggs and chia seeds.
Glass Measuring Cup Set
Heat-resistant borosilicate glass for accurate liquid measurements and easy aquafaba preparation.
Why it helps:
Essential for measuring aquafaba, plant milks, and liquid substitutes accurately.
Stainless Steel Whisks
Set of 3 whisks for different mixing tasks. Perfect for whipping aquafaba to peaks.
Why it helps:
Aquafaba requires vigorous whipping - quality whisks make this much easier.
🍽️Food Preparation
High-Speed Blender
Essential for smooth silken tofu preparations and creating aquafaba foam quickly.
Why it helps:
Makes silken tofu completely smooth and helps create stable aquafaba foams.
Coffee Grinder for Seeds
Dedicated grinder for flaxseeds and chia seeds. Fresh grinding maximizes binding power.
Why it helps:
Freshly ground flax and chia seeds work much better than pre-ground versions.
Fine-Mesh Strainers
Set of stainless steel strainers for separating aquafaba and straining mixtures.
Why it helps:
Clean aquafaba separation and smooth mixture preparation.
🏺Storage Solutions
Airtight Glass Jars
Perfect for storing ground flax, chia seeds, and prepared egg substitute mixtures.
Why it helps:
Keeps ground seeds fresh longer and prevents rancidity.
Refrigerator Containers
BPA-free containers for storing prepared flax eggs and aquafaba in the fridge.
Why it helps:
Pre-made egg substitutes can be stored for 3-5 days with proper containers.
💡 Expert Recommendation
Start with a digital scale and good whisks - these two tools will improve 90% of your egg substitute results!