Almond meal substitutes
Almond meal substitutes — 6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Almond flour
Same amount as the almond meal
Finely ground blanched almonds, very similar to almond meal.
The best substitutes for almond meal are almond flour, hazelnut meal, coconut flour, or ground walnuts depending on your recipe and dietary preferences.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- baking
Updated 26 Jul 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of almond meal | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Almond flourbaking | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Hazelnut mealbaking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Coconut flourbaking | Same amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
| 4 | Ground walnutsbaking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 5 | Ground pecansbaking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 6 | Oat flourbaking | Same amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
Almond flour
identical taste, similar texture
Finely ground blanched almonds, very similar to almond meal.
- Best for
- baking, pancakes, cookies, cakes
Slightly finer texture but same flavor and nutritional profile.
Hazelnut meal
different taste, similar texture
Coarsely ground hazelnuts with similar texture and nutty flavor.
- Best for
- baking, pancakes, cookies, cakes
Slightly different flavor but similar texture and binding properties.
Coconut flour
different taste and texture
Gluten-free flour made from ground coconut meat.
- Best for
- baking, pancakes, cookies, gluten-free recipes
Higher fiber content, may need more liquid in recipes.
Ground walnuts
different taste, similar texture
Coarsely ground walnuts with similar texture and nutty flavor.
- Best for
- baking, pancakes, cookies, cakes
Slightly different flavor but similar texture and binding properties.
Ground pecans
different taste, similar texture
Coarsely ground pecans with similar texture and nutty flavor.
- Best for
- baking, pancakes, cookies, cakes
Slightly different flavor but similar texture and binding properties.
Oat flour
different taste and texture
Gluten-free flour made from ground oats.
- Best for
- baking, pancakes, cookies, gluten-free recipes
Different flavor and texture, may need binding agents.
Questions
4 questionsWhat's the difference between almond meal and almond flour?
Almond meal is coarsely ground almonds with skins, while almond flour is finely ground blanched almonds. Almond meal has more texture and a slightly different appearance.
Can I use almond meal in place of regular flour?
Almond meal can be used in many recipes, but it's not a direct substitute for wheat flour. It works best in recipes specifically designed for almond meal or in combination with other gluten-free flours.
How do I store almond meal?
Store almond meal in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer to prevent rancidity. It can last 6-12 months when stored properly.
Can I make almond meal at home?
Yes, you can make almond meal by grinding whole almonds (with or without skins) in a food processor until coarsely ground. Be careful not to over-process or you'll get almond butter.
Tips for substituting almond meal
10 tips- Almond meal is naturally gluten-free and high in protein
- It adds a nutty flavor and moist texture to baked goods
- The meal is coarser than almond flour, providing more texture
- It's commonly used in macarons, cookies, and cakes
- Almond meal can be used in both sweet and savory recipes
- It's a good source of healthy fats and vitamin E
- The meal works well in gluten-free baking recipes
- It can be used as a coating for meats and vegetables
- Almond meal adds richness and depth to baked goods
- It's commonly used in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines