Best Egg White Substitutes for Meringue: Complete Guide
Find the best egg white substitutes for meringue. Learn about aquafaba, meringue powder, and other alternatives for perfect vegan meringues and desserts.
Quick Answer
For meringue, the best egg white substitute is aquafaba (3 tbsp = 1 egg white). It whips up beautifully and creates perfect vegan meringues. Meringue powder can also be used as a substitute, following package instructions for proper ratios.
Best Substitutes
Aquafaba (Chickpea Water)
3 tbsp = 1 egg whiteLiquid from canned chickpeas that whips up beautifully and creates perfect vegan meringues. The ultimate substitute for egg whites in meringue recipes.
Best for:
Whip aquafaba until stiff peaks form, just like egg whites. Use unsalted chickpea liquid for best results. Can be baked at low temperatures like traditional meringue.
Meringue Powder
Follow package instructionsCommercial powder containing dried egg whites and stabilizers. Provides consistent meringue results without fresh eggs.
Best for:
Follow package instructions for proper ratios. Usually mixed with water and whipped. Provides reliable, consistent results for all meringue needs.
Dried Egg White Powder
1 tbsp + 2 tbsp water = 1 egg whitePure dried egg white powder that reconstitutes with water. Provides authentic meringue texture and flavor.
Best for:
Mix powder with water and let sit 5 minutes before whipping. Whip until stiff peaks form. Provides most authentic meringue results.
Commercial Egg Replacer + Cream of Tartar
1.5 tsp egg replacer + 1/4 tsp cream of tartar + 2 tbsp water = 1 egg whiteCombination of commercial egg replacer and cream of tartar for meringue-like results. Good alternative when other options aren't available.
Best for:
Mix egg replacer with water, add cream of tartar, and whip until stiff peaks form. May not be as stable as other options.
Flax Egg + Cream of Tartar
1 tbsp flax + 3 tbsp water + 1/4 tsp cream of tartar = 1 egg whiteFlax egg with cream of tartar for meringue-like results. Provides binding and some structure for meringue applications.
Best for:
Mix flax with water, let sit 5 minutes, add cream of tartar, and whip. May not whip as high as other options but provides structure.
Cooking Tips
- 💡For perfect aquafaba meringue: Whip until very stiff peaks form, just like egg whites
- 💡For meringue cookies: Use aquafaba or meringue powder for best results
- 💡For meringue pies: Use aquafaba for vegan options or meringue powder for convenience
- 💡For pavlova: Use aquafaba for authentic texture and appearance
- 💡For soufflés: Use aquafaba for light, airy texture
- 💡For decorative meringues: Use meringue powder for consistent, reliable results
- 💡For baking meringue: Bake at low temperature (200-250°F) for crispy results
- 💡For stability: Add cream of tartar to help stabilize meringue substitutes
- 💡For whipping: Use electric mixer on high speed for best results
- 💡For consistency: Whip until stiff peaks form and mixture holds its shape
- 💡For vegan meringue: Use aquafaba for completely plant-based results
- 💡For convenience: Use meringue powder for easiest, most reliable results
- 💡For authenticity: Use dried egg white powder for most authentic results
- 💡For natural options: Use aquafaba for completely natural alternative
- 💡For emergency meringue: Use commercial egg replacer with cream of tartar
Frequently Asked Questions
Summary
Find the best egg white substitutes for meringue. Learn about aquafaba, meringue powder, and other alternatives for perfect vegan meringues and desserts.