With the current high price of eggs, you might be looking for reliable egg substitutes for baking.
Not much can replace an egg “eggs-actly,” but some replacements can be suitable alternatives in a pinch. Jessica Clifford, a CSU Extension nutrition specialist and registered dietitian with the Food Science and Human Nutrition Department, has several egg substitutes that can work in a variety of recipes.
Why are eggs hard to replace?
Eggs provide structure and moisture in recipes. Eggs hold together other ingredients, and yolks contain compounds that can help evenly blend liquids that usually don’t mix, like oil and water. When whipped, egg whites raise batters by adding air into the mixture through a process called leavening.
Since few single ingredients can replicate all these properties at once, finding the right substitute often depends on the specific role eggs play in a recipe. For instance, flaxseed meal works well for binding, while baking powder and vinegar help with lift. Testing different substitutes will help you find the best option for your needs.
7 top egg substitutes for baking
How to use flaxseed meal to replace eggs
Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water and let it sit for 15 minutes to form a gel-like consistency.
Best uses for baking with flaxseed meal
- Baked goods that need binding and moisture (e.g., pancakes, muffins, quick breads, cookies).
- Vegan recipes where eggs are used as a structural component.
- Dishes with a slightly nutty flavor (e.g., whole-grain or hearty baked goods).
Health benefits of flaxseed meal as an egg substitute
Flaxseed meal is high in fiber, which can help improve heart health, as well as omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants.
How much does it cost to replace an egg with flaxseed meal?
It costs roughly 5 cents for the amount of flaxseed meal required to replace an egg.
How to use mashed bananas to replace eggs
Use ¼ cup of mashed banana to replace one egg in baking.
Best uses for baking with mashed bananas
- In moist baked goods like banana bread, muffins and brownies.
- As a healthier alternative where natural sweetness is beneficial.
- In vegan baking.
Avoid using mashed bananas in recipes where:
- You don’t want banana flavor.
- Excess moisture could be problematic (e.g., crispy cookies).
Health benefits of mashed bananas as an egg substitute
Mashed bananas are naturally sweet, rich in potassium and a good source of fiber.
How much does it cost to replace an egg with mashed banana?
It costs roughly 10 cents for the ¼ cup of mashed banana required to replace an egg.
How to use aquafaba to replace eggs
Aquafaba is the liquid from cooked or canned chickpeas. It can replace egg whites in recipes. Use 3 tablespoons of aquafaba per egg.
Best uses for baking with aquafaba
- Meringues, macarons and marshmallows (ideal for whipping into stiff peaks).
- Vegan or egg-free mousses and soufflés.
- Vegan mayonnaise and dressings.
Avoid using aquafaba in recipes that require a strong binder.
Health benefits of aquafaba as an egg substitute
Aquafaba is low in calories and fat-free.
How much does it cost to replace an egg with aqaufaba?
It costs roughly 40 cents to replace an egg with aquafaba from a can of chickpeas. That doesn’t factor in the value of the chickpeas, which you can still use.
How to use baking powder and vinegar to replace eggs
Combine ½ teaspoon of baking powder, 1 tablespoon vinegar and 1 tablespoon water to replace one egg.
Best uses for baking with baking powder and vinegar
- Cakes, muffins, cupcakes and quick breads where eggs mainly provide leavening.
- Recipes that need a light, airy texture.
- Vegan baking recipes.
Avoid using baking powder and vinegar in recipes that require a strong binder.
How much does it cost to replace an egg with baking powder and vinegar?
It costs roughly 8 cents to replace an egg with baking powder and vinegar.
How to use cornstarch to replace eggs
To maintain structure and moisture, replace only one egg in every three with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Because you’re just replacing 1/3 of the eggs, this works best for recipes that call for more than three eggs and still require eggs for structure and moisture.
Best uses for baking with cornstarch
- Thickening custards, puddings and sauces.
- Baked goods where structure is important (e.g., cookies, shortbread).
- Eggless batters (e.g., tempura or coatings for fried foods).
How much does it cost to replace an egg with cornstarch?
It costs roughly 4 cents to replace a single egg with cornstarch.
How to use gelatin to replace eggs
Soften 1 tablespoon of unflavored gelatin in 3 tablespoons of cold water, add 3 teaspoons boiling water, cool and beat until frothy before using. Reduce other liquid in the recipe by 2 tablespoons.
Best uses for baking with gelatin
- Dense or structured desserts (e.g., cheesecakes, mousse, panna cotta).
- Gluten-free baking to improve texture.
- Savory dishes like meatballs where eggs act as a binder.
Avoid using gelatin in recipes that:
- Are vegan or vegetarian.
- Require whipping.
How much does it cost to replace an egg with gelatin?
It costs roughly 50 cents to $1 to replace a single egg with gelatin.
How to use commercial egg substitutes to replace eggs
Substitute 1/4 cup commercial egg replacer for each egg.
What are commercial egg replacers made from?
Many commercial egg substitutes contain some sort of starch as a binding or stabilizing agent, a leavening agent like baking soda, an emulsifier and possibly other things like oils, colors or flavors. Some may include a plant-based protein isolate to increase the protein.
How much does it cost to replace an egg with a commercial egg replacer?
It costs roughly 15 cents to $1 to replace a single egg with a commercial egg substitute.
Other egg substitutes
Chia seeds as an egg substitute
Chia seeds are a fiber powerhouse and work similarly to flaxseed meal, but usually cost more.
Applesauce, Greek yogurt and silken tofu as egg substitutes
Applesauce, Greek yogurt and silken tofu can be used the same way banana is used; they help with moisture. They are best used in moist, dense baked goods, like quick breads.
You may want to avoid using them in baked goods that are meant to be light and fluffy.
Tofu and Greek yogurt supply protein, but the amount in each cookie from a batch or piece of bread from a loaf would be minimal.
Are there nutritional downsides to egg substitutes?
Some commercial replacements provide plant protein but still may not be equivalent to the protein in real eggs. Commercial egg replacers also may contain additives and preservatives. DIY substitutes like flaxseed or aquafaba are more natural but don’t offer the same protein content.
Resources for egg-free recipes
Pro tip: Search for a vegan version of the recipe you want to make, such as “vegan brownie recipe” or “vegan salad dressing.” Adding “vegan” to recipe searches will yield results that don’t use eggs or other animal products.
