Lookin for an Ingredient to Swap Out? These 16 Ingredient Swaps Work Perfectly

Running out of an ingredient while cooking can be frustrating. But don't worry; plenty of substitutes work just as well. Whether you're missing a key ingredient or need an alternative due to dietary restrictions, these swaps can save the day. 

Knowing a few simple ingredient substitutions can help you continue cooking without a trip to the store. Here are 16 simple ingredient substitutions.

Buttermilk Substitute 

If a recipe calls for buttermilk and you don’t have any, use milk and vinegar. Mix one cup of milk with a tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for five minutes to curdle, and you have an excellent buttermilk alternative. This works well in pancakes, muffins, and cakes. If you have plain yogurt, you can also use it as a substitute.

Baking Powder Substitute 

If you run out of baking powder, mix baking soda and cream of tartar. Use one teaspoon of baking soda and two teaspoons of cream of tartar. This mixture provides the same leavening effect in baked goods and helps cakes and cookies rise properly. If you don’t have cream of tartar, you can use lemon juice or vinegar instead.

Brown Sugar Substitute 

Do you lack brown sugar? No problem. Combine one cup of white sugar with a tablespoon of molasses or maple syrup. Stir well, and you'll get the same deep flavor as store-bought brown sugar. If you prefer a darker brown sugar flavor, simply add more molasses to taste.

Egg Substitute 

You can replace one egg with a flaxseed or chia seed mixture for baking. Mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseeds or chia seeds with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes until it becomes gel-like. This works well in cookies, muffins, and pancakes. Applesauce and mashed bananas are also good alternatives for moisture in baked goods.

Heavy Cream Substitute 

If you need heavy cream but don’t have any, use milk and butter. Melt ¼ cup of butter and mix it with ¾ cup of milk. This combination mimics the richness of heavy cream in soups and sauces. It won’t whip like cream but works well in cooking. For a dairy-free option, use full-fat coconut milk.

Sour Cream Substitute 

For a sour cream replacement, use plain yogurt or Greek yogurt. Yogurt has the same tangy flavor and creamy texture. It works in dips, dressings, and baked goods. This swap is also a healthier option. Cottage cheese blended with lemon juice can also work in a pinch.

Cornstarch Substitute 

If you need cornstarch for thickening, try flour or arrowroot powder. Use two tablespoons of flour for every tablespoon of cornstarch. Arrowroot powder is a great gluten-free option. These substitutes work well in soups, sauces, and gravies. Tapioca starch is another alternative that provides a similar thickening effect.

Bread Crumb Substitute 

If you lack breadcrumbs, use crushed crackers, oats, or cereal. They provide the same crunch and texture in recipes. Crush them into small pieces before using them. This works great for meatballs, meatloaf, and coatings. Ground nuts can also add a crunchy texture to dishes.

Vanilla Extract Substitute 

Try maple syrup or almond extract if you don’t have vanilla extract. Maple syrup has a rich sweetness, while almond extract has a strong flavor. Since almond extract is more concentrated, use half the amount. These options work well in cookies and cakes. You can also use vanilla-flavored milk or coffee creamer to add a hint of vanilla flavor.

Tomato Paste Substitute

If you're missing tomato paste, use tomato sauce or canned tomatoes. Cook them down until they thicken. You can also use ketchup in a pinch. This works well in soups, sauces, and stews. Blended roasted red peppers can also be used as a unique alternative.

Soy Sauce Substitute 

Mix Worcestershire sauce with a bit of water for a soy sauce alternative. Coconut aminos or tamari also work as gluten-free options. These substitutes provide the same umami flavor. Use them in stir-fries, marinades, and dips. Mushroom broth or miso paste mixed with water can also create a similar depth of flavor.

Lemon Juice Substitute 

If you need lemon juice, use vinegar or lime juice. Both have the same acidic quality to balance flavors. Use them in dressings, marinades, and baking. Apple cider vinegar is a great alternative. You can also use citric acid powder mixed with water for a tart flavor.

Honey Substitute 

If you’re out of honey, try maple syrup or agave nectar. Both have similar sweetness and texture. They work well in tea, baking, and sauces. You can swap them in equal amounts. Corn syrup can also work if you need a mild-flavored liquid sweetener.

Garlic Substitute 

If you don’t have fresh garlic, use garlic powder or minced garlic from a jar. One clove of garlic equals ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder. You can also use onion powder for a milder flavor. These swaps work well in sauces, soups, and marinades. If you have it on hand, roasted garlic paste can also provide a rich flavor.

Milk Substitute 

If you need milk, use almond, coconut, or oat milk. These plant-based options work well in baking and cooking. Coconut milk is more prosperous, while oat milk has a mild flavor. Choose one based on your preference and dietary needs. Soy milk is another excellent option that provides protein similar to dairy milk.