# Egg Yolk Substitute Ideas: What To Use Instead

URL: https://tastessence.com/substitutes/egg-yolk-substitute
Category: Substitutes
Published: 2021-01-13T09:13:13
Updated: 2021-01-13T09:13:13
**Egg yolks are a common ingredient in baked goods such as cakes, cookies, and custard.** But if you’re making one of these treats and you’re fresh out of eggs (or you don’t eat them in your diet), **what can you use as an egg yolk substitute?** As it turns out, there are **numerous foods that you can use as an egg yolk substitute.** From tofu to oil to mashed fruit, you probably already have at least one of these animal-free alternatives on hand. **Keep reading to learn how to use them effectively as an egg yolk substitute.**

## What’s the purpose of egg yolks in recipes?

Before we explore what you can add in place of egg yolks, **it’s necessary to first understand why we use them.** As a bit of background, the yolk is important because it contains most of the [egg’s nutritional value](https://www.saudereggs.com/blog/what-are-the-functions-of-eggs/#2_Egg_Yolks), **including nearly all of the vitamins and minerals.** In some recipes, **egg yolks add a rich taste,** since they’re high in fat. Other times, bakers use them to bind ingredients together or create a rising effect. In short, **yolks serve different purposes in various dishes,** but the point remains: no matter how you’re using egg yolks, you shouldn’t have much trouble finding a [suitable alternative](https://tastessence.com/substitutes/applesauce-egg-substitute).

## Best egg yolk substitute options

With that in mind, let’s take a look at **a few of the best options for replacing egg yolks** in your recipe.

### Tofu

It might not be your immediate thought to replace egg yolks, but **blended silken tofu makes an excellent substitute.** Not only is tofu packed with protein ([like eggs](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320445)), but it also doesn’t contain animal products, which makes it a great vegan swap for yolks. **It’s a good option when you need to replicate the leavening effects of egg yolks.**

### Oil or butter

When you need **an ingredient to replace the richness and high-fat content of egg yolks,** you can grab pretty much any kind of oil from your pantry. Extra virgin [olive oil](https://tastessence.com/substitutes/substitute-olive-oil-for-butter), sunflower oil, and avocado oil will all get the job done. Don’t have any oil on hand? **You can also swap in butter.**

### Mashed fruit

**Pureed fruit, including avocado and banana,** is a remarkably good replacement for egg yolks in many recipes. However, you should be mindful that you might get a hint of the fruit taste in your final product. **Make sure you’re comfortable with that slight bit of flavor** before mashing the fruit and adding it into your dish.

### Flax or chia seeds

Many vegan recipes use a **combination of flax or chia seeds and water** to replace eggs, creating what is known as a “[flax egg](https://minimalistbaker.com/how-to-make-a-flax-egg/)“ or “chia egg.” To make one, all you need to do is **combine one tablespoon of ground raw flax seeds or chia seeds with two to three tablespoons of water.** Keep stirring until you reach a creamy consistency. Choosing an egg yolk substitute is a **matter of personal taste and preference,** but you should be fine with any of the ingredients listed above. Plus, **they’re all vegan-friendly (except for butter)**, so you can whip up some delicious treats without relying on animal byproducts. For more recipe tips and suggestions, [**check out the Tastessence blog.**](https://tastessence.com/)