Eggs are a staple in many recipes, particularly in baking, where they play a critical role in creating structure, adding moisture, and binding ingredients together.
For those following a vegan or plant-based diet, finding suitable egg substitutes can be a challenge (we know!), as they need to replicate not just one but often multiple functions of eggs. Cake without egg? It sounds almost impossible!
Well, let us tell you, it is actually possible! There’s a wide variety of plant-based alternatives that can step in for eggs, each with its unique properties and best uses.
In this guide, we’ll explore some of the most effective egg substititutes and binders for cooking and baking, providing examples and instructions for how to use them in different recipes. No need to give up cake!
In this blog post we also share how to replace butter, dairy, and gelatine in vegan baking!
how to use different egg substitutes
Tapioca, Cornstarch, or Arrowroot Powder
These starches are excellent for thickening and binding, making them ideal for recipes like custards, puddings, and pie fillings. They create a smooth texture without adding any strong flavor. They also create a sticky texture that helps hold patties and fritters together during cooking.
How to Use:
- Mix 1 tablespoon of tapioca, cornstarch, or arrowroot powder with 3 tablespoons of water to replace one egg.
- Stir until it forms a slurry, then add it to your recipe.
Best For:
- Pumpkin pies
- Lemon curd
- Sauces and gravies
- Veggie fritters and hash browns.
Shop for Tapioca, Cornstarch, and Arrowroot Powder here!
Read more: Perfect your baking, cooking, and canning with EZ-Gel thickener
Flaxseed or Chia Seed Gel
Flax and chia seeds are two of the most popular egg substitutes in vegan baking due to their ability to create a gel-like consistency when mixed with water. They’re high in omega-3 fatty acids and add a slight nutty flavor to recipes.
How to Use:
- Grind the seeds and mix 1 tablespoon of flax or chia seeds with 3 tablespoons of water.
- Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it thickens to a gel.
- Use this mixture to replace one egg.
Best For:
- Cookies
- Brownies
- Pancakes
- Quick breads like banana or zucchini bread
- Vegan burger patties
- Vegan meatballs
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Applesauce and Other Fruit or Vegetable Purées
Unsweetened applesauce and purées made from bananas, pumpkin, or sweet potatoes are excellent for adding moisture and binding ingredients.
These options work especially well in heartier baked goods like muffins or cakes. However, they may subtly affect the flavor of your dish, so it’s best to match the purée with the recipe.
How to Use:
- Replace one egg with ¼ cup of unsweetened applesauce, mashed banana or pumpkin purée.
- Add a pinch of baking powder to help with leavening if needed.
Best For:
- Banana bread
- Morning glory muffins
- Dense cakes and quick bread
- Fritters
Aquafaba (Chickpea Liquid)
Aquafaba (a weird name, right?!), the liquid from canned chickpeas (garbanzo beans), is a versatile and miraculous egg replacer, especially for recipes that rely on egg whites.
It can be whipped into soft or stiff peaks, just like egg whites, making it perfect for meringues, macarons, and pavlovas.
How to Use:
- Use 3 tablespoons of aquafaba to replace one egg.
- For recipes requiring whipped egg whites, whisk aquafaba with a hand or stand mixer until foamy, adding a stabilizer like cream of tartar to make it more stable. Add ⅛ teaspoon of cream of tartar per 2 tablespoons of aquafaba.
Best For:
- Meringues
- Macarons
- Pavlovas
- Light, airy cakes
Baking Soda and Vinegar
When you need an egg replacer for leavening in recipes like cakes and muffins, baking soda and vinegar are an excellent combination. The reaction between the acid (vinegar) and the base (baking soda) creates carbon dioxide, which helps your baked goods rise.
How to Use:
Combine 1 teaspoon of baking soda with 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar) to replace one egg.
Best For:
- Sponge cakes
- Muffins
- Pancakes
- Vegan omlettes (check out this chickpea vegan omlette recipe!)
Vegan Yogurt
Plain plant-based yogurt provides moisture, creaminess, and mild binding power, making it a great egg substitute in recipes with a creamy base. It’s also excellent for creating tender textures in baked goods.
How to Use:
Use ¼ cup of plain, unsweetened vegan yogurt to replace one egg.
Best For:
- Custards
- Cheesecakes
- Moist cakes
- Waffles
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Silken Tofu
Silken tofu is another excellent option for adding creaminess and structure to recipes. It has a neutral flavor and blends seamlessly into batters and fillings and savory dishes. However, it’s best suited for dense recipes since it doesn’t add much leavening.
How to Use:
Blend ¼ cup of silken tofu until smooth to replace one egg.
Best For:
- Cream pies
- Dense cakes
- Quiches and frittatas
- Brownies
- Veggie patties with grains and beans
- Tofu-based patties
- Savory loaf recipes
Commercial Egg Replacers
There are several store-bought egg replacers available that are specifically formulated to mimic the properties of eggs in cooking and baking. These typically contain starches and leavening agents and are incredibly convenient to use.
Popular Brands:
- Bob’s Red Mill Egg Replacer
- Ener-G Egg Replacer
- Neat Egg
Best For:
- All-purpose baking
- Cookies
- Cakes
choosing the right egg substitute for your recipe
The key to successfully substituting eggs is understanding the role they play in your recipe.
Here’s a breakdown of which egg replacer to use based on the desired function:
Binding:
- Flaxseed or chia seed gel
- Silken tofu
- Applesauce
Leavening:
- Baking soda and vinegar
- Commercial egg replacers
Moisture:
- Applesauce
- Vegan yogurt
- Silken tofu
Thickening:
- Tapioca, cornstarch, or arrowroot powder
- Silken tofu
Whipping (Egg Whites):
- Aquafaba
Replacing eggs in vegan and plant-based cooking doesn’t have to be daunting. With the wide range of egg substitutes available, you can tackle everything from cookies and cakes to patties and fritters with confidence.
By understanding the role eggs play in a recipe and selecting the appropriate substitute, you’ll be able to create delicious and satisfying dishes that everyone can enjoy!
