Cooking Substitutions, Recalculated

What can I use instead of egg?

Best substitute for 1 egg
1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
Applesauce — Best in cakes, muffins and quick breads.
eggs
Amounts below are for 1 egg

8 substitutes for egg

SubstituteUse this muchNotes
Applesauce1/4 cup unsweetened applesauceBest in cakes, muffins and quick breads.
Mashed banana1/4 cup mashed bananaAdds sweetness and banana flavor.
Flax egg1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp waterMix and rest 5 min. Vegan; great in hearty bakes.
Chia egg1 tbsp chia seeds + 3 tbsp waterRest 5-10 min until a gel forms.
Plain yogurt1/4 cup plain yogurtKeeps cakes moist and tender.
Aquafaba3 tbsp aquafabaChickpea liquid; ideal for meringue.
Silken tofu1/4 cup blended silken tofuBest for dense, fudgy bakes.
Buttermilk1/4 cup buttermilkGood when extra liquid is okay.

Out of eggs? Eggs add structure, moisture and binding, so the best swap depends on whether you're baking a fluffy cake, chewy cookies, or binding a veggie burger.

Tips

  • 1 egg is about 1/4 cup of most liquid or puree swaps.
  • For 2+ eggs, purees can turn bakes gummy - add 1/4 tsp extra baking powder per egg.

FAQ

How do I replace 2 eggs?
Double the swap - for example 1/2 cup applesauce, or 2 flax eggs (2 tbsp flax + 6 tbsp water).
Best egg substitute for binding?
A flax or chia egg binds best in burgers, meatballs and hearty bakes.