Eggs play a central role in many recipes, but for those who are vegan, have an egg allergy, or simply want a plant-based alternative, there are plenty of substitutions that work beautifully. Each substitute serves different purposes, whether for binding, leavening, or adding moisture. Below, you’ll find step-by-step recipes for popular egg replacements, from flax eggs to banana substitutions, so you can confidently swap eggs in your favorite dishes.
Recipes for Egg Substitutes
1. Vegan Flax Egg
Flax eggs are one of the most versatile and easy-to-make egg substitutes, perfect for binding in baked goods like muffins, pancakes, and cookies.
What you'll need:
- 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed
- 3 tablespoons water
How to mke it:
- In a small bowl, mix the ground flaxseed with water.
- Stir well to combine.
- Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it thickens to a gel-like consistency.
- Use as a 1:1 replacement for one egg in your recipe.
Best Uses:
Baked goods like brownies, cookies, and quick breads.
2. Vegan Chia Egg
Chia eggs work similarly to flax eggs but are more neutral in flavor. They’re excellent for recipes where you don’t want the nuttiness of flaxseed.
What you'll need:
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 3 tablespoons water
How to mke it:
- Combine the chia seeds and water in a small bowl.
- Stir and let the mixture rest for 5-10 minutes until it forms a thick gel.
- Use as a 1:1 egg replacement in your recipe.
Best Uses:
Pancakes, waffles, and energy bars.
3. Using Avocado as an Egg Substitute
Mashed avocado is a great egg alternative, providing moisture and creaminess. Its mild flavor works well in both savory dishes and chocolate-based desserts.
What you'll need:
- ¼ cup mashed ripe avocado (equivalent to 1 egg)
How to use make it:
- Mash a ripe avocado until smooth, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Measure ¼ cup of mashed avocado per egg you are replacing.
- Add it directly to your wet ingredients in the recipe.
Best Uses:
Brownies, cakes, or creamy savory dishes like vegan mayonnaise or sauces.
4. Banana as an Egg Substitute
Mashed bananas add sweetness and moisture to recipes, making them ideal for baked goods.
What you'll need:
- ¼ cup mashed ripe banana (equivalent to 1 egg)
How to make it:
- Peel and mash a ripe banana with a fork or blender until smooth.
- Measure ¼ cup of mashed banana for each egg you’re replacing.
- Add the banana to your wet ingredients.
Best Uses:
Muffins, pancakes, and sweet cakes.
5. Applesauce as an Egg Substitute
Unsweetened applesauce is a simple, affordable substitute that adds moisture without altering the flavor too much.
What you'll need:
- ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce (equivalent to 1 egg)
How to make it:
- Measure ¼ cup of unsweetened applesauce per egg.
- Stir directly into your recipe's wet ingredients.
- If the recipe becomes too wet, slightly reduce the other liquids.
Best Uses:
Cakes, muffins, and quick breads.
6. Silken Tofu as an Egg Substitute
Silken tofu is an excellent choice for recipes that require a creamy texture, like custards, cheesecakes, or dense baked goods.
What you'll need:
- ¼ cup silken tofu, blended until smooth (equivalent to 1 egg)
How to make it:
- Blend silken tofu in a blender or food processor until it’s smooth and creamy.
- Measure ¼ cup of the blended tofu per egg.
- Incorporate it into your recipe’s wet ingredients.
Best Uses:
Dense cakes, brownies, and creamy desserts.
7. Aquafaba (Chickpea Brine) as an Egg Substitute
Aquafaba, the liquid from a can of chickpeas, mimics egg whites and is ideal for meringues, mousses, and light baked goods.
Substitution Ratio:
- 3 tablespoons aquafaba (equivalent to 1 egg)
What you'll need:
- 1 can of chickpeas
How to make it:
- Drain a can of chickpeas and reserve the liquid (aquafaba).
- Measure 3 tablespoons of aquafaba per egg.
- Whisk the aquafaba lightly for added volume if needed.
Best Uses:
Meringues, macarons, and mousses.
Give Egg Substitutes a Try
Egg substitutions are more than just a dietary workaround—they’re an opportunity to experiment with plant-based ingredients that enhance your recipes in unique ways. Whether you're whipping up cookies with flax eggs, brownies with mashed avocado, or pancakes with bananas, these substitutes ensure your dishes stay delicious and satisfying.
The best part? These alternatives are simple to make, affordable, and widely available, making egg-free cooking and baking accessible for everyone. Start experimenting today and discover your favorite egg replacement!