What's the Best Substitute for Walnut Oil?
Whether you're out of Walnut Oil or looking for a healthier alternative, finding the right substitute can save your recipe. Rich, nutty oil extracted from walnuts with distinctive flavor, commonly used in salad dressings, baking, and finishing dishes In this guide, we'll explore the best substitutes that work in most recipes and help you achieve similar results.
Quick Answer
The best substitutes for walnut oil are hazelnut oil, almond oil, or extra virgin olive oil, depending on the recipe and desired flavor profile.
Best Substitutes for Walnut Oil
Hazelnut Oil
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- baking
- salad dressings
- finishing dishes
- desserts
Description
Similar nut oil with rich, toasted flavor. Excellent for baking and salad dressings where nutty flavor is desired.
Has a more pronounced toasted flavor than walnut oil. Use in similar applications.
Almond Oil
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- baking
- light sautéing
- salad dressings
- desserts
Description
Mild, sweet nut oil that works well in baking and light cooking applications. Good for delicate flavors.
Milder flavor than walnut oil but similar texture and cooking properties.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- salad dressings
- light sautéing
- finishing dishes
- Mediterranean cooking
Description
Fruity, rich oil that works well in salad dressings and light cooking. Good general substitute.
Very different flavor profile but similar texture. Choose high-quality extra virgin for best results.
Pecan Oil
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- baking
- sautéing
- salad dressings
- desserts
Description
Rich, buttery nut oil with similar flavor profile to walnut oil. Excellent for baking and cooking.
Very similar to walnut oil in terms of flavor and cooking properties. May be easier to find.
Avocado Oil
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- sautéing
- roasting
- baking
- high-heat cooking
Description
Neutral, high smoke point oil that works well in cooking applications where walnut oil's flavor isn't essential.
Neutral flavor so won't add nutty taste. High smoke point makes it good for cooking.
Grapeseed Oil
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- sautéing
- roasting
- baking
- high-heat cooking
Description
Light, neutral oil with high smoke point. Good for cooking applications where walnut oil's flavor isn't needed.
Neutral flavor and high smoke point. Won't add nutty taste to dishes.
How to Choose the Right Substitute
When choosing a substitute for Walnut Oil, consider the recipe's requirements for taste, texture, and cooking method. Think about whether you need something that mimics the original exactly or if a different but complementary flavor would work. Also consider dietary restrictions and availability of ingredients.
Cooking Tips
Walnut oil has a low smoke point, so it's best used for finishing dishes, salad dressings, and low-heat cooking
Store walnut oil in the refrigerator to prevent it from going rancid, as it has a shorter shelf life than other oils
Walnut oil is excellent in salad dressings, especially with bitter greens like arugula or endive
Use walnut oil in baking to add rich, nutty flavor to cakes, cookies, and pastries
Walnut oil pairs beautifully with fruits, especially pears and apples, in both sweet and savory dishes
Drizzle walnut oil over finished dishes like roasted vegetables or grilled fish for added flavor
Walnut oil can be used in both sweet and savory applications, from vinaigrettes to dessert sauces
Always taste and adjust seasonings when using substitutes
Consider the cooking method - some substitutes work better in certain applications