Looking for the perfect substitutes for walnuts? Whether you’re out of walnuts or need an alternative due to allergies, we’ve got you covered with the best options to keep your recipes on point!
There’s nothing worse than getting halfway through a recipe and realizing you’re out of walnuts. Or maybe you’re dealing with a nut allergy, and walnuts are officially off the menu. Whatever the reason, you’re in luck because there are plenty of substitutes for walnuts that will keep your dish tasting amazing. From other crunchy nuts to creative non-nut options, you’ll be surprised how easy it is to swap them out.
So, what makes walnuts so special in the first place? They’re buttery, slightly sweet, and add that perfect crunch to salads, baked goods, and everything in between. But don’t worry—just because you’re skipping walnuts doesn’t mean your recipes have to miss out on flavour or texture. With the right substitutes for walnuts, you can still nail that perfect bite every time.
TOP SUBSTITUTES FOR WALNUTS IN ANY RECIPE
1. PECANS

How to Use It: Use pecans in a 1:1 ratio as a substitute for walnuts in recipes like baked goods, salads, or granola. Additionally, chop them finely for a texture similar to walnuts.
Why It Works: Pecans have a similar buttery flavour and crunch to walnuts, making them a nearly identical swap in most recipes. They also roast well, bringing out a slightly sweet nuttiness.
Perfect For: Pies, cookies, muffins, brownies, and candied nut recipes.
2. ALMONDS

How to Use It: Use slivered, sliced, or chopped almonds in place of walnuts in a 1:1 ratio. Toast them lightly for an enhanced flavour.
Why It Works: Almonds provide a crunchier texture and a mild, slightly sweet flavour that complements both sweet and savory recipes.
Perfect For: Granola, trail mix, baked goods, and salads.
3. HAZELNUTS

How to Use It: Swap walnuts for chopped hazelnuts in a 1:1 ratio in recipes where a robust nutty flavour is desirable. Additionally, roast them for extra depth.
Why It Works: Hazelnuts are rich and nutty, adding a luxurious texture and flavour, especially to desserts and chocolate-based dishes.
Perfect For: Cookies, cakes, brownies, and as a topping for oatmeal or yogurt.
4. CASHEWS

How to Use It: Use chopped cashews in a 1:1 ratio as a substitute for walnuts in salads, stir-fries, or baked goods. Additionally, opt for unsalted cashews in sweeter dishes.
Why It Works: Cashews have a creamy, buttery flavour and a slightly softer crunch, making them a great choice for recipes requiring a mild nut.
Perfect For: Sauces, cookies, stir-fries, and no-bake desserts.
5. MACADAMIA NUTS

How to Use It: Replace walnuts with coarsely chopped macadamia nuts in a 1:1 ratio. Use sparingly, as they are richer and sweeter.
Why It Works: Their rich, buttery flavour and creamy texture make macadamia nuts an indulgent replacement for walnuts in desserts or gourmet dishes.
Perfect For: Cookies, cakes, and creamy desserts.
6. PUMPKIN SEEDS (PEPITAS)

How to Use It: Substitute an equal amount of shelled, roasted pumpkin seeds for walnuts in salads, bread, or granola.
Why It Works: Pumpkin seeds mimic the crunch of walnuts without any nut allergens, therefore making them a great option for nut-free recipes.
Perfect For: Nut-free granola, energy bars, salads, and bread recipes.
7. SUNFLOWER SEEDS

How to Use It: Use raw or roasted sunflower seeds in a 1:1 ratio as a substitute for walnuts in savory dishes or as a crunchy topping.
Why It Works: Sunflower seeds are a nut-free option that adds a mild nutty flavour and crunch without overpowering the dish.
Perfect For: Salads, bread, trail mix, and as a topping for casseroles or soups.
8. PINE NUTS
How to Use It: Swap pine nuts for walnuts in a 1:1 ratio, particularly in salads, pestos, or savory baked goods.
Why It Works: Pine nuts have a delicate, slightly sweet, and buttery flavour that works well in place of walnuts in Mediterranean or Italian-inspired dishes.
Perfect For: Pesto, pasta dishes, and salad toppings.
9. CHOPPED PEANUTS

How to Use It: Use chopped peanuts in a 1:1 ratio for recipes that don’t require the distinct flavour of walnuts. Additionally, unsalted peanuts work best for sweeter recipes.
Why It Works: Peanuts are affordable and provide a hearty crunch, though their flavoUr is a bit earthier and less buttery than walnuts.
Perfect For: Brownies, cookies, and savory dishes like stir-fries.
10. CHOPPED BRAZIL NUTS
How to Use It: Replace walnuts with chopped Brazil nuts in a 1:1 ratio for recipes requiring a rich, creamy texture.
Why It Works: Brazil nuts are larger and richer but provide a buttery flavour similar to walnuts when chopped finely.
Perfect For: Baked goods, granola, and energy bars.
11. CHIA SEEDS (FOR TEXTURE)

How to Use It: Replace walnuts with an equal volume of soaked chia seeds in recipes where crunch isn’t essential, such as baked goods or smoothies.
Why It Works: Chia seeds create a similar texture to ground walnuts when soaked and are an excellent option for nut-free diets.
Perfect For: Muffins, cookies, and energy bites.
12. SHREDDED COCONUT (FOR SWEET RECIPES)

How to Use It: Replace walnuts with unsweetened shredded coconut in sweet recipes that don’t require a crunchy texture. However, use a slightly smaller amount for best results.
Why It Works: Coconut adds a naturally sweet, chewy texture, therefore making it a good nut-free alternative in desserts.
Perfect For: Cookies, cakes, and energy bars.
13. OATS (FOR BULK BAKING)

How to Use It: Use oats in place of walnuts for baked goods like muffins or cookies, using a 1:1 volume swap.
Why It Works: Oats can mimic the bulk and texture of walnuts in baking, though they won’t provide the same crunch.
Perfect For: Muffins, cookies, and quick breads.
At the end of the day, finding substitutes for walnuts is easier than you might think. Whether you’re swapping for allergies, preferences, or just because you ran out, there’s no need to stress. With so many options that bring crunch, flavour, or both, your recipes can still turn out just as delicious. Plus, experimenting with new ingredients might even lead to your next favourite twist on an old classic!
So, whether you’re a walnut lover or just looking to try something new, there’s no shortage of great alternatives to explore. Each substitute brings its own unique twist, so feel free to get creative! You might just find that the perfect replacement is even better than the original. No matter what, you’ll have a tasty dish to enjoy!
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