28 Emergency Baking Substitutes for Eggs, Milk, Butter, and More

Inside: Missing an ingredient mid-recipe? Don’t panic. This ultimate list of 28 emergency baking ingredient substitutes shows you exactly what to use instead of eggs, milk, butter, flour, sugar, and more. Keep this handy baking substitution chart bookmarked so you’ll never have to stop baking when your pantry runs low.

It never fails. You’re in the middle of making oatmeal cookies. Or the dessert for today’s potluck. Or your mother-in-law’s specialty cake—and she’s coming to dinner.

And suddenly your heart drops. You could have sworn you had butter. You ALWAYS have butter. But not today.

And baking is an exact science. Unlike other kinds of cooking, you have to follow the rules of ratios. And ingredients. And amounts.

It seems to be either those ingredients you always have on hand like butter, or the ones you never use like buttermilk, that are always missing at the worst time.

But before you throw in the kitchen towel or make a grocery store run, you may already have a good swap right under your nose!

The 28 Most Common Baking Ingredients and Substitution Options to Save the Dessert Day.

This isn’t the endless list of every unusual and unlikely baking substitution ever for you to wade through. These are the most common and most likely ingredients we cook with.

Most of the ones you really need to know.

Remember—because baking is a precise art, changing any of the specific ingredients may change the end result. The outcome may be slightly different in flavor or texture, but you will still have an edible dessert!

Don’t forget to grab your free printable of all of these in the subscriber-only library to keep handy with your baking supplies.

Not a subscriber yet? Sign up below for updates to keep in touch…I have lots of fun and useful freebies you may be interested in in my subscriber-only library like this AND my cheat sheet for emergency spice and seasoning substitutions!

Baking Ingredient Substitutes Everyone Should Know.

These quick baking swaps cover the most common ingredients that people run out of when baking. From egg substitutes for baking to buttermilk replacements, this chart gives you the exact ratios so your cakes, cookies, and breads still turn out delicious.

Baking Substitution FAQs.

What’s the best egg substitute for baking cakes?

The most reliable egg substitute for cakes is unsweetened applesauce—use ¼ cup for each egg. It adds moisture and helps bind ingredients. For a lighter texture, you can also use whipped aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) as an egg replacer.

Can I use water instead of milk in baking?

Yes, but results will vary. Water can replace milk in a pinch, but your baked goods may taste less rich and have a slightly drier texture. For better results, add 1 tablespoon of melted butter or oil per cup of water to mimic milk’s fat content.

How do I make a buttermilk substitute at home?

Combine 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar. Stir and let sit for 5 minutes until it curdles slightly. This homemade buttermilk substitute works in pancakes, biscuits, and cakes.

What can I substitute for butter in cookies?

The closest substitute is margarine or shortening, which will give a similar texture. For a dairy-free option, use coconut oil or vegan butter. If you want added moisture and chewiness, try unsweetened applesauce, though it will change the flavor slightly.

Can I replace baking powder with baking soda?

Yes, but only with an adjustment. For each teaspoon of baking powder, use ¼ teaspoon baking soda plus ½ teaspoon cream of tartar. If you don’t have cream of tartar, you can also use ¼ teaspoon baking soda plus 1 teaspoon vinegar or lemon juice in the recipe.

What’s the weirdest baking substitute that actually works?

One of the most surprising is using mayonnaise in place of eggs or oil in cakes. It sounds strange, but mayo is made of eggs and oil, so it keeps cakes incredibly moist. Another unexpected swap is using mashed avocado instead of butter in brownies!

Can I bake without sugar at all?

Yes, but it depends on the recipe. You can use natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or mashed bananas to add sweetness and moisture. Keep in mind that removing all sugar will affect texture, browning, and flavor, so it works best in quick breads, muffins, and energy bars rather than delicate cakes.

In a baking mood now? Try one of these easy and delicious recipes:

These subs may not be up to snuff with your mother-in-law’s dessert. But they will save you, and a whole lotta stress in a pinch when you’re mid-bake and missing a key ingredient.

And who knows, everyone may think that great substitute with the slightly different flavor they detect was intentional, and praise your culinary skills.👩‍🍳

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