Baking Hacks: 5 BEST Vegan Substitutes for Egg Wash

Baking’s a blast, especially when we keep it vegan.

Finding the right substitute for egg wash can trip us up, though.

Lucky for us, there are some amazing hacks out there.

We’ve stumbled upon five fab options that’ll make our pastries shine without an egg in sight.

Ever think about making your pies glisten with something from a plant?

We did, and boy, do we have some secrets to share.

From the golden glaze on your favorite bread to that perfect crunch on your pastries, these substitutes aren’t just alternatives; they’re game-changers.

Ready to get your bake on with a clear conscience and stellar results?

What are Egg Wash and Vegan Egg Wash?

Egg wash is a mixture of egg and water used to help seal the crust of pies and pastries.

The egg creates a barrier that prevents moisture from escaping, preventing the crust from becoming soggy.

Vegan egg wash is made with plant-based milk, such as soy or almond milk, and is used the same way as an egg wash.

It helps create a barrier that prevents moisture from escaping, keeping the crust crisp.

While both egg wash and vegan egg wash are effective at sealing the crust of pies and pastries, vegan egg wash is a better option for vegan or have an allergy to eggs.

In addition, vegan egg wash is often made with less processed ingredients than those in traditional egg wash, making it a healthier option overall.

The 5 Best Vegan Substitutes for Egg Wash

If you’re vegan and have missed out on the deliciousness of egg-washed foods, then this list is for you.

We’ve compiled the five best vegan substitutes for egg wash so that you can enjoy all of your favorite dishes without any animal products.

Substitute	Key Characteristics	Substitute Ratio
Dairy-free Milk	Plant-based milk alternative	Use as a 1:1 substitution for egg wash
Oil	Adds richness and moisture to baked goods	Use a small amount (approximately 1-2 tablespoons) to brush on baked goods
Natural Sweeteners	Provides a sweet glaze and enhances browning	Use a mixture of natural sweeteners such as maple syrup or agave syrup
Aquafaba	Liquid from cooked chickpeas, creates a glossy finish	Use as a 1:1 substitution for egg wash
Vegan Butter	Plant-based butter alternative, adds richness and flavor	Use a small amount (approximately 1-2 tablespoons) to brush on baked goods

When baking vegan delights and looking for substitutes for egg wash, consider the following options:

1 – Dairy-free Milk

There are few ingredients as versatile as eggs when it comes to baking.

They can be used to make cakes light and fluffy or to bind together a savory filling.

Eggs can even be used as a simple egg wash, giving baked goods a beautiful glossy finish.

However, eggs can be off-limits for those with egg allergies or who follow a vegan lifestyle.

Fortunately, several dairy-free milk substitutes can be used as an egg wash.

Soy milk and almond milk are both excellent options, and for a touch of flavor, coconut milk can also be used.

Simply brush the dairy-free milk onto the surface of your baked goods before baking, and you’ll end up with a delicious and beautiful result.

2 – Oil

Oil works similarly to the egg wash, creating a barrier that helps to brown the surface of the dough while also keeping it moist.

Simply brush the oil onto your dough before baking, and you’ll notice a noticeable difference in the color and texture of your final product.

Not only is this substitute more affordable, but it’s also vegan-friendly.

So whether you’re out of eggs or looking for an alternative to the traditional egg wash, oil is a great option.

Brush approximately 1-2 tablespoons of oil onto the surface for a similar effect to an egg wash.

3 – Natural Sweeteners

There are a variety of natural sweeteners that can be used in place of egg wash when baking.

Honey, for example, can help to create a golden-brown crust.

Maple syrup can also be used, and it imparts a subtle sweetness to the finished product.

When using honey or syrup, it is important to brush the egg wash on evenly so that it doesn’t pool in one area and burn.

Another option is to use fruit juices, such as orange or grapefruit juice.

These can add flavor as well as color to the crust.

The acidity of the juice also helps to create a crispy texture.

Finally, yogurt can be used in place of egg wash, and it is especially effective in keeping baked goods moist.

Whatever natural sweetener you choose, be sure to experiment until you find the perfect flavor for your favorite recipes.

4 – Aquafaba

For vegetarian or vegan or who simply don’t keep eggs in the house, aquafaba is a lifesaver when it comes to recipes that call for an egg wash.

Aquafaba is the starchy water leftover from cooking chickpeas, and it can be used as a replacement for whole eggs or egg whites in many recipes.

When used as an egg wash, aquafaba helps to create a golden, crispy crust on baked goods.

It also works well as a binding agent in recipes such as veggie burgers or meatless meatballs.

Aquafaba is easily made at home with just a can of chickpeas and some water.

5 – Vegan Butter

Egg wash creates a smooth and glossy finish on baked goods such as pies and pastries.

Although eggs have been a traditional ingredient in egg wash, vegans can substitute vegan butter.

While eggs provide protein and fat, which helps the flour bind together, vegan butter can also do the same job.

Simply melt the vegan butter and brush it on your dough before baking.

The fat in the vegan butter will help create a light and flaky crust.

In addition, the vegan butter will also add flavor and richness to your baked goods.