The Calculated Cook

Missing an ingredient?

Type what you need to substitute and get instant smart swaps so you can keep cooking.

IngredientSubstitute(s)
Baking powder
  • Baking soda and cream of tartar: 1/4 tsp baking soda plus 1/2 tsp cream of tartar per 1 tsp baking powder
  • Baking soda and yogurt: 1/4 tsp baking soda, reduce other liquid slightly
Brown sugar
  • White sugar and molasses: 1 cup white sugar plus 1 tbsp molasses per cup
  • Coconut sugar, equal amount, slightly less sweet
Butter
  • Coconut oil, equal amount, best for baking
  • Applesauce, 3/4 the amount, adds moisture, reduces fat
Buttermilk
  • Milk and white vinegar: 1 cup milk plus 1 tbsp white vinegar, let sit 5 minutes
  • Milk and lemon juice: 1 cup milk plus 1 tbsp lemon juice, let sit 5 minutes
Cake flour
  • All-purpose plus cornstarch: 1 cup all-purpose minus 2 tbsp, plus 2 tbsp cornstarch, sift well
Eggs
  • Flax egg: 1 tbsp ground flaxseed plus 3 tbsp water per egg, let sit 5 minutes
  • Aquafaba: 3 tbsp chickpea liquid per egg
Heavy cream
  • Coconut cream, equal amount, use full-fat canned
  • Evaporated milk, equal amount for cooking and sauces
Honey
  • Maple syrup, equal amount, slightly thinner
  • Agave nectar, equal amount, more neutral flavor
Sour cream
  • Greek yogurt, equal amount, works in baking and dips
  • Creme fraiche, equal amount, slightly richer flavor
Vanilla extract
  • Almond extract, use half the amount, it is stronger
  • Vanilla paste, equal amount for richer flavor
Vegetable oil
  • Melted butter, equal amount, adds richer flavor
  • Applesauce, equal amount for moisture in baking
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Frequently asked questions

How does the ingredient substitution tool work?

Type the ingredient you need to replace, and the tool shows substitution options with exact ratios from our curated database, so you don't have to guess quantities or search multiple sources.

Can I substitute any ingredient?

The tool covers a curated list of common cooking and baking substitutions, including dairy, eggs, flours, sweeteners, fats, and more. If an ingredient isn't in our list, no substitution will appear. Browse the full list below to see everything currently covered.

Will substitutions change the taste or texture of my dish?

Some substitutions are nearly identical in result, while others will slightly alter flavor or texture. Each entry notes when a swap may affect your dish, so you can decide whether it works for your recipe.

What's the best substitute for buttermilk?

The most reliable substitute is 1 cup of milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice — let it sit for 5 minutes before using. Plain yogurt thinned with a little milk also works.

Can I use this for baking substitutions?

Yes. The tool notes which substitutions work well in baked goods versus savory dishes, so you can choose the safest swap for your recipe.

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