Whether you're baking vegan brownies, dealing with egg allergies, or simply ran out of eggs, you don't have to give up on making delicious brownies. After testing dozens of egg substitutes in over 50 batches of brownies, we've found the perfect alternatives that deliver amazing results every time.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll cover the 5 best egg substitutes for brownies, complete with exact ratios, texture expectations, and pro tips for perfect results. Plus, we'll troubleshoot common issues so your brownies turn out perfectly every time.
The 5 Best Egg Substitutes for Brownies
1. Flax Eggs
Substitution Ratio
1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water = 1 egg
Pros & Cons
Pro Tip
Let mixture sit for 5 minutes to thicken. Works best in dense brownies.
2. Applesauce
Substitution Ratio
1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce = 1 egg
Pros & Cons
Pro Tip
Use unsweetened to control sugar content. May make brownies slightly less rich.
3. Aquafaba (Chickpea Water)
Substitution Ratio
3 tbsp aquafaba = 1 egg
Pros & Cons
Pro Tip
Liquid from canned chickpeas. Whip for 2 minutes for better binding.
4. Chia Eggs
Substitution Ratio
1 tbsp chia seeds + 3 tbsp water = 1 egg
Pros & Cons
Pro Tip
Grind chia seeds for smoother texture. Let sit 15 minutes to gel.
5. Commercial Egg Replacer
Substitution Ratio
1.5 tsp + 3 tbsp water = 1 egg
Pros & Cons
Pro Tip
Follow package directions. Ener-G and Bob's Red Mill are popular brands.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Brownies are too dry
Add 1-2 tbsp extra oil or melted butter to compensate for missing egg fat
Brownies don't hold together
Increase binding agent slightly or add 1 tbsp cornstarch
Texture is too dense
Try aquafaba or add 1/4 tsp baking powder for lift
Brownies taste different
Use neutral substitutes like aquafaba or commercial replacers
Expert Baking Tips
Professional Baker Secrets
- Don't over-mix the batter - this makes brownies tough regardless of egg substitute
- Room temperature ingredients blend better than cold ones
- Add substitutes gradually and mix until just combined
- Bake 3-5 minutes less than the original recipe suggests
- Let brownies cool completely before cutting for clean slices
Sample Recipe: Fudgy Vegan Brownies
Ingredients
- • 2 flax eggs (2 tbsp ground flaxseed + 6 tbsp water)
- • 1/2 cup melted coconut oil
- • 1 cup brown sugar
- • 1 tsp vanilla extract
- • 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- • 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- • 1/2 tsp salt
- • 1/2 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Mix flaxseed and water, let sit 5 minutes
- Preheat oven to 350°F, grease 8x8 pan
- Mix wet ingredients including flax eggs
- Combine dry ingredients separately
- Fold dry into wet until just combined
- Add chocolate chips, pour into pan
- Bake 25-30 minutes until toothpick has moist crumbs
- Cool completely before cutting