Instant Ingredient Substitute Tool

OopsOutOf.com gives you quick ingredient substitutes with exact ratios and notes. Out of eggs, milk, or buttermilk? Maybe something else? Find reliable swaps for everyday cooking and baking in seconds.

Just type the ingredient you are missing into the box below and click “FIND SUBSTITUTES”.

Popular Ingredient Substitutes

  • Eggs: 1 egg = 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
  • Buttermilk: 1 cup = 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • Baking powder: 1 tsp = 1/4 tsp baking soda + 1/2 tsp cream of tartar
  • Butter: 1 tbsp butter = 1 tbsp neutral oil
  • Milk: 1 cup = 1 cup oat milk

Ingredient Substitute FAQ

What can I use instead of eggs in baking?

You can replace one egg with 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce, 1 tbsp ground flax mixed with 3 tbsp water (let gel for 5 minutes), or 1/4 cup plain yogurt. Each works best in muffins, cakes, and quick breads.

How do I substitute buttermilk?

Mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using. This creates a simple buttermilk substitute for pancakes, biscuits, and cakes.

What can replace baking powder?

Combine 1/4 teaspoon baking soda with 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar to equal 1 teaspoon baking powder. Use immediately after mixing for best results in batters and doughs.

What is the best butter substitute for baking?

Neutral oils like canola or vegetable oil work in most baked goods (1:1 ratio). Margarine also substitutes evenly, while applesauce (1/2 cup per 1 cup butter) can be used for lower-fat cakes.

Can I replace milk in a recipe?

Oat milk, soy milk, or almond milk can be swapped 1:1 for cow’s milk in most recipes. For cooking, diluted evaporated milk also works. Flavor may vary slightly.

How do I make brown sugar if I run out?

Stir 1 tablespoon molasses into 1 cup of white sugar for light brown sugar. Use 2 tablespoons molasses for dark brown sugar. Works in cookies, sauces, and marinades.

What can I use instead of cornstarch to thicken?

Arrowroot powder or tapioca starch can be swapped 1:1. All-purpose flour also works (use 2 tbsp flour for every 1 tbsp cornstarch). Arrowroot is best for clear sauces.

What can I use if I don’t have heavy cream?

For cooking, mix 3/4 cup milk with 1/4 cup melted butter to equal 1 cup heavy cream. For whipping, no substitute works perfectly, though chilled evaporated milk can work in a pinch.