Applesauce as an Egg Substitute for Baking - Egg-Free Cooking

People substitute eggs in recipes for a variety of reasons. Some people are vegan, while others simply run out of eggs at home too frequently. Applesauce is a common substitute for eggs in baking, due to its moist texture and ability to bind ingredients. Not only is applesauce a common household item that most people already have stocked in their pantries, but it also brings a unique, tangy taste to baked goods when used as a substitute.

How much should you use?

In baking, following recipes is critical. It’s important to think of baking as a type of chemistry: the accuracy of every measurement counts. Using exact amounts, as suggested by each recipe, is crucial, otherwise the recipe may not turn out well.

When it comes to substituting applesauce for eggs, the general consensus on the ratio is:

Â¼ cup applesauce per 1 egg
Â½ tablespoon baking powder for extra leavening/rise, according to Taste of Home

Note: if your recipe calls for a different substitution ratio, follow those instructions first. Not all recipes, however, will provide instructions or measurements for substitutions.

Why does applesauce work as a substitute for eggs?

Eggs serve many purposes in baking. Perhaps the most important function is that they act as a binder to other ingredients. In other words, they hold every ingredient in a recipe together. Eggs also provide moisture to dry recipe ingredients, while also allowing the food to rise from oven heat.

Applesauce, though a completely different food than eggs, can be used as a substitute in baking. For one, applesauce brings moisture and added flavor, just like eggs. For another, it can also bind ingredients to create an even batter.

The main difference between the two? The nutrition. While eggs contain lots of protein, vitamin A, and vitamin D, applesauce contains more vitamin C, potassium, and fiber than eggs. Eggs also contain a high amount of cholesterol, another reason why some people look for substitutes in their baking ingredients. In most baking cases, however, most of the baker’s concern regards the substance and taste of the finished baked good, rather than its nutritional value.

What else can applesauce be used as a substitute for?

Chances are, if you’re looking to substitute eggs in your recipes, you are probably also looking for other ingredients applesauce can replace. Other ingredients people commonly substitute with applesauce include:

Butter
Oil

Most people will agree that when substituting applesauce for butter or oil, using the exact, or almost exact, amounts the recipe calls for is acceptable.

Final Thoughts

Applesauce makes a great food to eat after dental operations, and it’s perfect for babies or a quick afternoon snack. The best part? You can incorporate it into almost any recipe.

If you decide to substitute applesauce for eggs while baking, be aware that the end result may taste slightly different. Substituting ingredients is safe to do. Just be sure to follow any guidelines your recipe outlines and make sure your food is fully cooked before consuming.

Substituting traditional baking ingredients with other household food items, such as applesauce, is a fun way to try new recipes and develop new cooking skills.