With egg prices on the rise, many Union County families are looking for creative ways to stretch their budgets without sacrificing their favorite recipes. While eggs are a kitchen staple for everything from baking to breakfast, there are several affordable substitutes you can use in your cooking and baking. Whether you’re trying to save money, accommodate dietary needs, or simply out of eggs, these alternatives can keep your meals on track.

Egg Substitutes for Baking
Eggs often serve as binders, leaveners, or moisture enhancers in baking. Here are some cost-effective options to replace one egg in your recipes:
Applesauce – 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce is an excellent substitute for baked goods like muffins, cakes and brownies. It adds moisture and a hint of natural sweetness.
Mashed Banana – 1/4 cup of ripe mashed banana can replace an egg and works well in recipes like pancakes, muffins or quick breads.
Yogurt – 1/4 cup of plain yogurt (or dairy-free yogurt) adds moisture and structure, making it ideal for cakes and muffins.
Ground Flaxseed or Chia Seeds – Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed or chia seeds with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for five minutes to create a gel-like consistency. This option is perfect for denser baked goods like cookies or bread.
Baking Soda and Vinegar – Combine 1 teaspoon of baking soda with 1 tablespoon of vinegar to create a chemical reaction that mimics the leavening effect of eggs in cakes or cupcakes.
Store-Bought Egg Replacer – Products like Bob’s Red Mill Egg Replacer or Ener-G are specifically designed for baking and work well across various recipes.

Cooking Without Eggs
For breakfast dishes like scrambled eggs or omelets, tofu or chickpea flour can be an excellent substitute:
Tofu Scramble – Use firm tofu crumbled into a pan, seasoned with turmeric, salt and your favorite spices to mimic the texture and appearance of scrambled eggs.
Chickpea Flour Omelet – Mix chickpea flour with water and seasonings to make a batter. Cook it like a pancake for a protein-packed, egg-free breakfast.

Egg-Free Coatings and Binders
Eggs are often used as a binder in meatloaf or as a coating for fried foods. Here are a few alternatives:
For coating: Use a mixture of water and flour, milk or even mayonnaise.
For binding: Try mashed potatoes, bread crumbs with milk or even cooked rice.

Stretching Your Egg Supply
If you still prefer to use eggs but want to stretch your supply, consider these tips:
Use half the number of eggs called for in a recipe and replace the other half with one of the substitutes above.
Focus on recipes that don’t rely heavily on eggs, such as oatmeal, soups or stir-fries.

Bonus Tip: Buy in Bulk or Locally
Union County is fortunate to have local farmers who often sell fresh eggs at competitive prices. Buying in bulk or directly from farmers can save money and support the local economy.

By being creative in the kitchen, you can navigate high egg prices while keeping your meals delicious and budget-friendly. For more tips on saving money and cooking creatively, contact the Union County Extension Office at 865-992-8038 or email athom237@utk.edu.