🥜 Nuts & Seeds

Can You Substitute Peanuts for Walnuts? Complete Guide

Learn whether you can substitute peanuts for walnuts and vice versa. Find the best alternatives and learn when each substitution works best in different recipes.

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Quick Answer

Yes, you can substitute peanuts for walnuts in most recipes, but they have different flavors and textures. Use a 1:1 ratio and consider the recipe's requirements. Walnuts are richer and more bitter, while peanuts are sweeter and more neutral.

Best Substitutes

Walnuts

1:1

Rich, earthy nuts with higher fat content and bitter flavor

Best for:

bakingsaladstrail mixpestodesserts

Richer flavor, higher fat content, more expensive than peanuts

Almonds

1:1

Tree nuts with similar texture and sweeter flavor

Best for:

snackingbakingcookingtrail mixnut butter

Sweeter than walnuts, similar texture to peanuts

Cashews

1:1

Creamy nuts with mild, buttery flavor

Best for:

snackingbakingcookingnut butterAsian dishes

Softer texture, creamier when ground, great for sauces

Pecans

1:1

Rich, buttery nuts similar to walnuts

Best for:

bakingdessertssaladstrail mixpesto

Similar richness to walnuts, sweeter flavor

Hazelnuts

1:1

Rich, sweet nuts with distinctive flavor

Best for:

bakingdessertschocolate dishestrail mixpesto

Distinctive flavor, works well in sweet and savory dishes

Cooking Tips

  • 💡Consider the recipe's flavor profile when substituting
  • 💡Walnuts are richer and more bitter than peanuts
  • 💡Peanuts are sweeter and more neutral in flavor
  • 💡Adjust other ingredients to balance flavor differences
  • 💡Toast nuts before using to enhance their flavor
  • 💡Consider the fat content when substituting in baking

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute peanuts for walnuts in baking?

Yes, but consider the flavor differences. Walnuts are richer and more bitter, while peanuts are sweeter. The substitution works well in most recipes, but you may need to adjust other ingredients.

What's the difference between peanuts and walnuts?

Peanuts are legumes with a sweeter, more neutral flavor, while walnuts are tree nuts with a richer, more bitter flavor. Walnuts also have higher fat content and are more expensive.

Can I use peanut butter instead of walnut butter?

Yes, peanut butter can work as a substitute for walnut butter, but the flavor will be different. Peanut butter is sweeter and more neutral, while walnut butter is richer and more bitter.

Which is better for pesto - peanuts or walnuts?

Walnuts are traditional for pesto and provide better flavor, but peanuts can work as a substitute. Consider using almonds or cashews for a better flavor match.

Can I substitute peanuts for walnuts in salads?

Yes, peanuts can work in salads, but consider the flavor differences. Walnuts provide a richer, more bitter flavor, while peanuts are sweeter and more neutral.

Summary

Learn whether you can substitute peanuts for walnuts and vice versa. Find the best alternatives and learn when each substitution works best in different recipes.