Egg Prices Are Soaring: Here Are the Best Substitutes and Recipes

With egg prices skyrocketing and shortages hitting grocery stores across the U.S., consumers are seeking creative alternatives. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average price of a dozen large, grade-A eggs reached $4.15 in December, and the USDA projects a further 20% increase this year. The ongoing bird flu outbreak has led to the culling of millions of chickens, reducing supply and forcing people to rethink their kitchen staples.

Eggs are a culinary powerhouse, offering versatility and nutrition. Fortunately, there are plenty of alternatives that work well for baking, cooking, and even whipping up breakfast favorites. Whether you’re looking for plant-based substitutes or dairy-based swaps, these egg replacements will help you navigate the shortage with ease.

Best Egg Substitutes for Cooking and Baking

1. Aquafaba (Chickpea Liquid)

Perfect for meringues, marshmallows, and even mayonnaise, aquafaba is the liquid found in canned chickpeas. It whips up into soft or stiff peaks just like egg whites, though it has a slightly earthy taste.

How to Use:

• 3 tablespoons of aquafaba = 1 egg

Recipe: Vegan Meringue Cookies Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup aquafaba (liquid from a can of chickpeas)
• 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 225°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Using a hand mixer, beat aquafaba and cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
3. Gradually add sugar while mixing, then add vanilla extract.
4. Pipe or spoon small meringues onto the baking sheet.
5. Bake for 1.5 hours, then let cool completely.

2. Flaxseed Egg

Flaxseeds are an excellent substitute for binding in baked goods like muffins and pancakes.

How to Make a Flax Egg:

• 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water (let sit for 5 minutes)

Recipe: Flaxseed Pancakes Ingredients:

• 1 cup flour
• 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water (flax egg)
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 cup almond milk (or regular milk)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon oil or melted butter

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix flaxseed and water and let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and baking soda.
3. Add in the flax egg, milk, vanilla extract, and oil. Stir until combined.
4. Heat a pan over medium heat and grease lightly.
5. Pour 1/4 cup of batter per pancake and cook until bubbles form, then flip.
6. Serve with syrup and enjoy!

3. Mashed Banana or Applesauce

These fruit-based substitutes add moisture and a touch of sweetness to baked goods like brownies and muffins.

How to Use:

• 1/4 cup mashed banana or applesauce = 1 egg

Recipe: Banana Oat Muffins Ingredients:

• 1 cup mashed banana (about 2 bananas)
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup melted butter or oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup rolled oats

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and line a muffin tin with liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk banana, sugar, butter, and vanilla.
3. In another bowl, mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients, then fold in oats.
5. Divide batter among muffin cups and bake for 18-20 minutes.

4. Full-Fat Yogurt

For a non-vegan option, yogurt provides moisture and structure in recipes like waffles, pancakes, and quick breads.

How to Use:

• 1/4 cup full-fat yogurt = 1 egg

Recipe: Yogurt Waffles Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup full-fat yogurt
• 1 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon melted butter or oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat the waffle iron and grease lightly.
2. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add yogurt, milk, butter, and vanilla, stirring until combined.
4. Pour batter into the waffle iron and cook according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Serve with fruit and syrup.

Final Thoughts

As egg prices continue to rise, these alternatives provide budget-friendly, accessible options for both vegan and non-vegan consumers. Whether you’re baking, whipping up breakfast, or making meringues, these egg substitutes will keep your favorite recipes intact without breaking the bank.