Can You Substitute Hazelnuts for Walnuts?

Walnuts substitute

Hazelnuts

Use the same amount as the walnuts you are replacing

Best for chocolate desserts

Different taste

Yes, you can substitute hazelnuts for walnuts and vice versa using a 1:1 ratio. Hazelnuts are more distinctive and rich, while walnuts are more earthy and bitter. Both work well in baking, cooking, and desserts.

Compare all 4 walnuts substitutes

Learn if you can substitute hazelnuts for walnuts and vice versa. Get the complete guide on ratios, differences, and when to use each in your recipes.

Other walnuts substitutes

Ranked, with the exact amount to use

2Walnuts
Different taste
Use the same amount
Walnuts can substitute for hazelnuts when you want a more earthy, slightly bitter flavor.
What changes
They have similar texture and fat content but different flavor profile.
Best for
baking, cooking, salads, savory dishes, pesto, trail mix, when you want earthy flavor
Walnuts are more earthy and bitter than hazelnuts but have similar texture. They work well in both sweet and savory applications.
3Almonds
Different taste
Use the same amount
Almonds provide a mild, sweet flavor that works as a substitute for both hazelnuts and walnuts when you want a less assertive nut flavor.
What changes
Best for
baking, cooking, snacking, trail mix, salads, general cooking
Almonds are milder than both hazelnuts and walnuts but provide good texture and crunch. They're versatile and work in most applications.
4Pecans
Different taste
Use the same amount
Pecans provide a rich, buttery flavor that works as a substitute for both hazelnuts and walnuts.
What changes
They're particularly good in sweet applications.
Best for
baking, desserts, sweet recipes, banana bread, carrot cake, cookies
Pecans are sweeter than both hazelnuts and walnuts but have similar texture. They work particularly well in sweet baked goods.

How it behaves in this recipe

Hazelnuts and walnuts are both healthy nuts that can often be used interchangeably, but they have different characteristics. Hazelnuts are more distinctive and rich, while walnuts are more earthy and slightly bitter. Both have similar fat content and nutritional profiles.

Cooking tips

Both hazelnuts and walnuts toast beautifully - toast them lightly to enhance their natural flavors
For chocolate desserts, hazelnuts are exceptional while walnuts work well in more general applications
Store both nuts in the refrigerator or freezer to prevent rancidity
Chop nuts to the same size for consistent texture in recipes
Both nuts pair well with chocolate, honey, and fruits
Hazelnuts are great for premium desserts while walnuts are more versatile

Notes on walnuts

Almonds for a milder, neutral flavor
Pecans for a sweeter, more buttery flavor
Cashews for a creamier texture
Macadamia nuts for a premium, buttery flavor
Mixed nuts for variety and complexity

Frequently asked questions

Can I substitute hazelnuts for walnuts in baking?

Yes, hazelnuts are an excellent substitute for walnuts in baking. They'll add a rich, distinctive flavor that works particularly well with chocolate desserts.

Are hazelnuts a good substitute for walnuts in pesto?

Yes, hazelnuts work well in pesto as a substitute for walnuts. They provide a rich, distinctive flavor that adds complexity to the pesto.

Can I substitute walnuts for hazelnuts in a recipe?

Yes, walnuts can substitute for hazelnuts using a 1:1 ratio. The main difference will be flavor - walnuts are more earthy and bitter while hazelnuts are more distinctive and rich.

Which is healthier - hazelnuts or walnuts?

Both are very healthy! Walnuts are higher in omega-3 fatty acids, while hazelnuts are higher in monounsaturated fats. Both are excellent sources of protein, fiber, and antioxidants.

Do hazelnuts and walnuts have the same texture?

Yes, hazelnuts and walnuts have very similar textures - both are crunchy with a similar mouthfeel. The main difference is in flavor, not texture.

Can You Substitute Hazelnuts for Walnuts?

Other walnuts substitutes

2Walnuts

3Almonds

4Pecans