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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.

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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 white

Liquid from canned chickpeas that whips up beautifully and creates perfect vegan meringues. The ultimate substitute for egg whites in meringue recipes.

Best for:

vegan meringuesmeringue cookiesmeringue piespavlovasoufflésall meringue desserts

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 instructions

Commercial powder containing dried egg whites and stabilizers. Provides consistent meringue results without fresh eggs.

Best for:

meringue cookiesmeringue piesdecorative meringueswhen you want convenienceall meringue applications

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 white

Pure dried egg white powder that reconstitutes with water. Provides authentic meringue texture and flavor.

Best for:

authentic meringuesmeringue cookiesmeringue pieswhen you want egg-based resultsall meringue applications

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 white

Combination of commercial egg replacer and cream of tartar for meringue-like results. Good alternative when other options aren't available.

Best for:

when other options aren't availableemergency meringuesimple meringue applications

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 white

Flax egg with cream of tartar for meringue-like results. Provides binding and some structure for meringue applications.

Best for:

when you want natural optionflax-based meringuesimple meringue applications

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

Can I use aquafaba instead of egg whites for meringue?

Yes, aquafaba is the best substitute for egg whites in meringue. Use 3 tablespoons aquafaba for every egg white and whip until stiff peaks form. It creates perfect vegan meringues that can be baked just like traditional meringue.

What's the best substitute for egg whites in meringue?

Aquafaba is the best substitute for egg whites in meringue. It whips up beautifully and creates authentic meringue texture. Meringue powder is also excellent for convenience and consistency.

Can I use meringue powder instead of egg whites?

Yes, meringue powder is an excellent substitute for egg whites in meringue. Follow package instructions for proper ratios. It provides consistent, reliable results and is very convenient to use.

How do I make aquafaba meringue?

To make aquafaba meringue, use 3 tablespoons aquafaba for every egg white called for in the recipe. Whip with electric mixer on high speed until stiff peaks form, just like you would with egg whites. Add sugar gradually while whipping.

What's the best ratio for aquafaba in meringue?

Use 3 tablespoons aquafaba for every egg white in meringue recipes. This ratio provides the right consistency and whipping ability to create perfect vegan meringues.

Can I bake aquafaba meringue?

Yes, aquafaba meringue can be baked just like traditional meringue. Bake at low temperature (200-250°F) for crispy results. It will brown and crisp up beautifully in the oven.

Summary

Find the best egg white substitutes for meringue. Learn about aquafaba, meringue powder, and other alternatives for perfect vegan meringues and desserts.