Egg yolks are one of those things we only realize we’re out of after cracking the last egg. We’ve definitely been mid-recipe, ready to get mixing, only to pause and think, “Okay, now what?”
Good news—there are solid swaps for egg yolks that work really well. We’ve used everything from applesauce to yogurt to keep our recipes on track. It’s all about finding that balance in texture and flavor.
Most of these substitutes are probably already in your fridge or pantry. They’re easy, affordable, and save you the stress of abandoning a recipe halfway through.
Whether it’s for cookies, custards, or cakes, these alternatives keep the dish rolling without skipping a beat.
5 Easy Substitutes for Egg Yolk
Here are some tried-and-true egg yolk substitutes that work well in most recipes:
1 – Egg Whites
In terms of eggs, egg whites might seem like the boring sibling, but they work. They step in easily for egg yolks in a pinch. For every one yolk, use two egg whites. Boom—problem solved.
They’ve got that nice binding thing going on. Texture stays smooth. Flavor? Neutral enough to not throw things off. We’ve used them in baked goods, and they totally hold up.
Just keep in mind, they lack the richness yolks bring. They’re lighter, both in texture and taste. Still, they’re dependable for cookies, cakes, or puddings.
2 – Silken Tofu
The silken tofu swap is seriously solid. It’s smooth, creamy, and blends like a pro. Use one tablespoon of silken tofu for every egg yolk. Easy.
It locks in moisture, keeps textures soft, and works wonders in custards, cakes, and other baked goods. It’s completely flavorless, so it won’t mess with your recipe’s taste, making it ideal for both sweet and savory dishes.
What’s even better? It’s packed with plant-based protein, so it adds a little nutritional boost to your recipes without any dairy or eggs. Plus, it’s widely available and budget-friendly.
Got it on hand? Cool, you’re set for dairy-free and egg-free needs. If you’re out, don’t worry—there are other great alternatives. Want more options? Check out best silken tofu substitutes.
3 – Greek Yogurt
The Greek yogurt swap is creamy, tangy, and super flexible. It works well in baking and cooking. Use 1/4 cup of Greek yogurt to replace one egg. Simple.
It brings moisture and structure to recipes. It’s also high in protein, so it adds a nice nutritional punch. It’s ideal for pancakes, muffins, and quick bread.
Some versions can taste slightly tart. Adjust sweetness if needed, especially in desserts. Use plain yogurt for more neutral flavor.
If plain Greek yogurt is not your style, check out these Greek yogurt substitutes for more options that might fit your needs: best Greek yogurt substitutes.
4 – Mashed Avocado
In case you haven’t heard—this trendy toast topper also works as a solid egg yolk substitute. Avocado is loaded with healthy fats and adds creaminess to recipes. Use 1/4 cup of mashed avocado for every egg yolk.
Avocado brings moisture, richness, and flavor to recipes. It’s great in cakes, brownies, or even as a dip for veggies.
It does make the final product slightly greener, but we’ve never had any complaints from taste testers! Plus, it’s another dairy-free option that can work wonders as an egg yolk replacement.
5 – Commercial Egg Replacers
Last but not least, if you’re really stuck and need a quick fix, there are commercial egg replacers available on the market. These products are specifically designed to mimic the binding and leavening properties of eggs in baking.
Some popular brands include Bob’s Red Mill Egg Replacer, Ener-G Egg Replacer, and Flaxseed Meal. Follow the instructions on the package for measurements, as they may vary slightly.
These options can be more expensive than other substitutes, but they work well in recipes where traditional binding and leavening agents like eggs are essential.
Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.