Last Updated on January 12, 2022
Egg yolks are one of the key ingredients to achieve a delicious custard. However, some people who have certain food allergies or are vegan stay away from eggs. Fortunately, you can opt to use an egg yolk substitute for custard that is delicious and perfect for people who have sensitivities or are vegan.
There are several different substitutes you can use for egg yolks, many of which are vegan. When done right, they will still produce custard with a delicious flavor and texture. You can even use these substitutes for other recipes as well.
What Is A Custard?
Custard is a variety of culinary preparations that combines cream, milk, and eggs. Other common ingredients include sugar and flavorings such as vanilla. However, in addition to being sweet, custards can also be savory as well.
There are many different variations and types of custards. Some of the most common kinds include crème brûlée, flan, egg nog, cream pie, frozen custard, and quiche. Custard is also a popular filling in various desserts such as pastries and cake. Depending on the recipe, it can be prepared in various thicknesses.
What does egg yolk do for custard?
Egg yolks play a very important part in making custard. Egg yolks work not only to thicken custard but also to give it a smooth, rich consistency. They are an important ingredient and you can not leave them out of the recipe unless you have a good substitute for them.
Many custard recipes use cream, milk, or both. The milk and cream help provide a rich flavor and the cream also contributes to the thickness of the custard. Sugar helps provide flavor and gives it a desirable taste for making it a dessert.
If you are vegan, you can substitute milk and cream for non-dairy options. Coconut milk is a common non-dairy replacement for milk and cream. Other non-dairy milk such as soy milk or almond milk can be used as a substitute.
Egg Yolk Substitute For Baking
Whether you are wanting a vegan-friendly option or have an allergy, an egg yolk replacement is easier to find than you think. There are several options available that you can use in your custard that will thicken it while making it smooth and delicious.
If you are looking for an egg yolk substitute for a dish like custard that uses eggs as a thickener, look for protein-rich options. The options that are rich in protein will work well to thicken up the dish you are making. In addition, they will not change the flavor of the dish, they will only help to improve the texture.
There are many other great substitutes for other baked goods as well. For example, an egg yolk substitute for cookies could also be coconut milk, tofu, flax seeds, and even apple cider vinegar and baking soda/baking powder.
Read more about Can You Make Cupcakes Without Eggs?
Agar powder
Agar powder works similar to gelatin, but it is vegan-friendly. It is naturally gelatinous and is derived from marine red algae. By mixing together 1 tablespoon of agar powder and 3 tablespoons of water you can use it as a thickener in many different dishes.
Like gelatin, agar powder is great for jellies, ice cream, soups, and much more. It is often sold in powder, as well as flakes, bars, and strands.
Chickpea flour
Chickpea flour, also known as gram flour and garbanzo bean flour, comes from a specific type of chickpea flour, the gram chickpea. It has been a staple in Indian cuisine for centuries as it is used in many different dishes. By combining three tablespoons of chickpea flour with three tablespoons of water, you will have any thick and creamy egg replacement.
Soy flour
Soy flour comes from grinding roasted soybeans into a smooth powder. It is a healthy alternative, high in protein, and can be used in several other recipes as well.
Nut butter
There are many great nut butter that works as an egg replacement. Good nut butter to use include peanut, cashew, and almond. You can use three tablespoons of nut butter as a replacement for an egg, just be sure to use a smooth variety.
Cornstarch
Cornstarch makes a great alternative for egg yolks in custard. It is a great ingredient to thicken sauces, soups, gravies, and even some types of desserts. You can use up to 1/2 a cup as a replacement, as it will make dishes thick, rich, and creamy.
Potato starch
Potato starch is a similar ingredient to cornstarch and is often used interchangeably. It is great for thickening up sauces, stews, and even desserts while giving them a lovely creamy texture.
Tofu
Tofu can also be used as an egg yolk substitute. When it is pureed, it can become smooth, making it perfect often for thickening up dishes. One-fourth of a cup of pureed tofu can make a great alternative to baked goods.
Avocado
Though avocado may seem like an unlikely substitute, it can be a great option. When you puree it, it becomes smooth and creamy, which can work great in baked goods. It is packed full of nutrients and will not affect the flavor of the dish you are making, even if it is sweet.
Easy And Nutritious Egg Yolk Substitute For Custard
Fortunately, if you are looking for an egg yolk substitute for custard, there are several great options. They are ideal if you are wanting to make a vegan custard or have any sensitivities or allergies to eggs. You will be surprised how well they work without changing the taste of this beloved dish.
Some of the best replacement options include cornstarch, potato starch, pureed avocado, pureed tofu, nut butter, chickpea flour, soy flour, and agar powder. They work to thicken the custard and then also give it a rich, creamy consistency that it is famous for.
Do you have any questions regarding using an egg yolk substitute for custard? If so, please ask any questions regarding using replacements for custards and other baked goods as well in the comment section below.
Ever since she was a young girl, Anna has been a lover of desserts. As an adult, she enjoys
baking a variety of desserts from cakes, cookies, brownies, bread, and more from scratch. She
enjoys sharing her passion for baking with others who also have a sweet tooth. From properly
measuring ingredients to making sure they are the correct temperature, Anna knows the
importance small details can make in baking. She wants to share her experience with others in
hopes they can make the most delicious baked goods. When she’s not busy blogging, Anna
enjoys trying new recipes in the kitchen.
