Macarons are delicate and delicious treats that require precision and patience, especially when it comes to making the perfect meringue.
One of the key ingredients in macarons is egg white powder, which helps to stabilize and add structure to the meringue.
However, some people may have dietary restrictions or simply don’t have egg white powder on hand.
This is where the best egg white powder substitutes for macarons come in handy.
In this post, I will share with you the top 10 alternatives for egg white powder and how to use them accurately, so you can create perfect macarons every time.
In short, " What can I use instead of egg white powder ?" Fresh Egg Whites, Meringue Powder, Aquafaba, Powdered Sugar, Silken Tofu, Gelatin Powder, Agar-Agar Powder, Cream of Tartar, Vinegar, and Soy Protein Powder.
What is egg white powder, and what does it taste like?
Egg white powder is a powdered form of egg whites that provides the same protein content as fresh eggs but without fat.
It has a mild savor and subtle sweetness, with a slightly salty taste similar to that of cooked egg whites.
Uses of egg white powder in macarons
Egg white powder is a key ingredient for making macarons. It is used to create a meringue that acts as the base of the pastry, giving it its distinctive texture and shape.
The egg whites are whipped with sugar to form stiff peaks that are then added to the almond meal and powdered sugar mixture. This creates a paste-like dough that is shaped into small rounds prior to baking.
The use of egg white powder in macarons adds important structural elements to the pastry.
The proteins within the egg whites help hold the shape of the dough as it bakes so that when cooled, they do not collapse in on themselves or become too hard or crunchy.
As well as providing structure, it also plays an important role in creating an even crust all around each macaron and contributes towards their signature crisp exterior.
In addition to its structural benefits, using egg white powder in macarons also provides greater flavor depth.
Egg whites bring out the sweetness of other ingredients like sugar and almond meal while also helping create a light texture within the pastry itself – perfect for delicately flavored desserts like macarons.
Where to buy egg white powder?
If you are looking for where to buy egg white powder, there are a few different places you can go. Many specialty food stores carry it, as do some international grocery stores.
You can also order online from many retailers that provide a variety of diverse flavors and types of egg white powder.
Beat egg white powder substitutes for macarons
1. Fresh Egg Whites – A good egg white powder substitute for macarons
Fresh egg whites are the most common substitute for egg white powder. They are readily available, easy to use, and convenient when making macarons.
Ratio or measurement: Use two fresh egg whites as a substitute for one tablespoon of egg white powder.
Whisk the egg whites till they construct stiff peaks, just like you would with egg white powder.
2. Meringue Powder – similar taste to egg white powder for macarons
Meringue powder is a powder made from dried egg whites that have been whipped and dehydrated.
It is widely used in baking and pastry-making and can be used as a substitute for egg white powder in macarons.
Ratio or measurement: Use one tablespoon of meringue powder as a substitute for one tablespoon of egg white powder.
Add it to the dry elements and blend it well before adding the wet ingredients.
3. Try Aquafaba to replace egg white powder with macarons
Aquafaba is a liquid that is leftover after cooking chickpeas. It can use as a vegan substitute for egg whites in many recipes and works just as well in macarons.
Ratio or measurement: Use three tablespoons of aquafaba as a substitute for one tablespoon of egg white powder.
Whip the aquafaba until it constructs stiff peaks, just like you would with egg whites.
4. Powdered Sugar – similar taste to egg white powder for macarons
Powdered sugar is a common ingredient in macarons and can be used as a substitute for egg white powder in a pinch.
Ratio or measurement: Use two tablespoons of powdered sugar as a substitute for one tablespoon of egg white powder.
Mix the sugar with the dry ingredients before adding the wet ingredients.
5. Silken Tofu – a tasty egg white powder alternative for macarons
Silken tofu is a vegan ingredient that can be used as a substitute for egg white powder in macarons.
Ratio or measurement: Use two tablespoons of silken tofu as a substitute for one tablespoon of egg white powder.
Mix the tofu with the wet ingredients before adding the dry ingredients.
6. Gelatin Powder – similar taste to egg white powder for macarons
Gelatin powder can be used as a substitute for egg white powder in macarons.
Ratio or measurement: Use one teaspoon of gelatin powder to replace one tablespoon of egg white powder.
Mix the gelatin with the dry ingredients before adding the wet ingredients.
7. Agar-Agar Powder – a decent egg white powder replacement for macarons
Agar-Agar powder is a vegan substitute for gelatin and can be used as a substitute for egg white powder in macarons.
Ratio or measurement: Use half a teaspoon of agar-agar powder to replace one tablespoon of egg white powder.
Mix the agar-agar with the dry ingredients before adding the wet ingredients.
8. Cream of Tartar – similar taste to egg white powder for macarons
Cream of tartar is a handy ingredient for stabilizing egg whites in macarons.
Ratio or measurement: If you don't have egg white powder, add 1/8 tsp of cream of tartar to every egg white before whipping.
This will help to create the perfect meringue for your macarons.
9. Vinegar – a decent egg white powder substitute for macarons
Vinegar is another ingredient that can be used as a substitute for egg white powder in macarons.
Ratio or measurement: Use 2 teaspoons of vinegar for every 3 egg whites and whip it with sugar to create your meringue.
The vinegar supports to stabilize the egg whites and creates a fluffy meringue that is ideal for macarons.
10. Soy Protein Powder – similar taste to egg white powder for macarons
Soy protein powder is a popular vegan substitute for egg white powder in macarons.
Ratio or measurement: Try using 1 tablespoon of soy protein powder for every egg white in your recipe.
When whipping, ensure that you use the electric mixer at medium speed to create the perfect meringue for your macarons.
Learn more: Best Substitutes for Apple Cider Vinegar in Deviled Eggs
Tips on How to Choose the Most Suitable Substitution Option for egg white powder for Macarons
When choosing a substitution option for egg white powder in macarons, consider the following tips:
1. Functionality: Egg white powder serves as a stabilizer and helps in achieving the desired texture and structure in macarons. Look for a substitution option that can provide similar functional properties.
2. Egg white alternatives: If you prefer a non-animal-based option, consider using aquafaba, which is the liquid from cooked chickpeas or other legumes.
It can be whipped to create a foam similar to egg whites and works well in macarons.
3. Powdered egg replacers: There are commercially available powdered egg replacers that can be used as a substitute for egg white powder. These products are typically made from a combination of starches, leavening agents, and binding agents.
Follow the instructions on the package to choose the appropriate substitution ratio.
4. Meringue powder: Meringue powder is a mixture of dried egg whites, sugar, and stabilizers. It can be used as a substitute for egg white powder in macarons.
However, keep in mind that meringue powder may contain additional ingredients that can affect the flavor and texture of the macarons.
5. Adjustments in recipe: When using a substitution option, you may need to make adjustments to the recipe.
Follow the instructions provided with the specific substitution product or recipe guidelines to ensure the best results.
6. Consider flavor: Egg white powder has a neutral flavor, so choose a substitution option that won’t significantly alter the taste of your macarons.
Keep in mind that some alternatives, such as aquafaba, may have a slight bean-like taste, which can affect the overall flavor profile.
7. Availability and accessibility: Check the availability of the substitution option in your local stores or online. Some options may be more readily available than others, so choose one that you can easily find.
How do I substitute egg white powder for egg whites?
To substitute egg white powder for egg whites, mix 1 tsp of the powder with 2 tablespoons of water to make a paste. This will equal the amount of one large egg white.
Egg white powder can be used in place of fresh egg whites in many baking recipes, such as meringues and macarons. It also adds protein to smoothies and other drinks without altering the flavor.
Can I make my own egg white powder?
Yes, you can make your own egg white powder at home.
The process involves separating the egg whites from the yolks, drying them in a dehydrator or an oven on low heat until they are completely dry, and then grinding them into a fine powder.
Egg white powder can be used in many recipes as a substitute for fresh eggs. You can keep it in an airtight container for up to 6 months.
Discover more: Egg substitutes for crab cakes
Conclusion on egg white powder substitute for macarons
Finding the perfect egg white powder substitute for macarons can be challenging, but you don’t have to give up on making this sweet treat.
We’ve shared 10 substitutes that work well! Be sure to use the right ratios and follow the instructions correctly, as macarons are finicky and require precise measurements.
Whether you use fresh egg whites, meringue powder, aquafaba, powdered sugar, silken tofu, gelatin powder, or agar-agar powder as a substitute, you’re sure to create beautiful macarons that will be an impressive dessert to serve to guests or enjoy as a treat for yourself.
Explore more: Can You Substitute Mayo for Eggs!
FAQs on egg white powder substitute for macarons
Q1. What is similar to egg white powder?
Powdered egg whites are similar to other egg white powders, such as dried egg whites or freeze-dried egg whites.
These products can replace fresh eggs in many recipes, offering convenience and a longer shelf life than traditional eggs.
Egg white powder is also significantly lower in calories than standard eggs, making it a popular choice among those looking to reduce their calorie intake.
Additionally, powdered egg whites contain a number of beneficial vitamins and minerals, such as B complex vitamins and iron, that can help promote healthy body function.
Q2. Is egg white powder necessary for macarons?
Egg white powder is not necessary for making macarons; however, it can be beneficial in some cases. Specifically, using egg white powder can help provide a more consistent texture and structure to the cookies.
Additionally, it can help reduce sogginess as well as the risk of microbial contamination since the powder has been pasteurized.
Furthermore, egg white powder is shelf-stable, which means that it does not need to be refrigerated and can be stored at room temperature for extended periods of time.
In addition to this, it also eliminates the need for separating eggs or whipping egg whites by hand, which can save time during preparation.
Q3. How do I substitute egg whites for meringue powder?
To substitute egg whites for meringue powder, you can use two tablespoons of powdered egg white for one teaspoon of meringue powder.
To make your own powdered egg whites, separate the white from the yolk and whisk until stiff peaks form.
Once stiff peaks have formed, place the whites onto a baking sheet of parchment-lined and bake them at 200°F (93°C) for about an hour or until dry. Then grind to a fine powder in a food processor or blender.
Q4. What can I use instead of egg white in a white cake mix?
Instead of egg whites, a number of vegan-friendly ingredients can be used in a white cake mix.
Many recipes call for a combination of plain non-dairy yogurt, vegetable oil, and lemon juice to replace the egg white.
Alternatively, you could also use applesauce, mashed banana, silken tofu, or commercial egg replacers.
Each ingredient affects the flavor and texture of the cake differently, so feel free to experiment with different combinations to find your favorite.
Additionally, you can use egg replacer products which are designed specifically for baking applications.
These have typically been tested in recipes, ensuring that you get consistent results every time.
