Substitutes for hazelnuts in cooking include almonds and walnuts for baking, pecans and pistachios for garnishes, macadamia nuts and coconut flakes for vegan recipes, sunflower and pumpkin seeds for gluten-free dishes, and peanuts and cashews for spreads and fillings.
Almonds can replace hazelnuts in baking due to their similar texture and flavor profile. They can be used in a 1:1 ratio and can also be ground into almond flour for cakes and cookies. Toasting the almonds before use will enhance their flavor. Popular brands include Blue Diamond and Trader Joe's.
Walnuts have a slightly more bitter taste than hazelnuts but work well as a substitute in baked goods. Use them in a 1:1 ratio. They're rich in omega-3 fatty acids and add a robust flavor. Toasting walnuts before baking brings out a nuttier flavor. Fisher and Diamond are common brands.
Pecans can be used as a garnish in place of hazelnuts. They bring a buttery and slightly sweet taste to dishes. Use a 1:1 ratio. Toasting them enhances their flavor and crunch. Popular brands include Stahmanns and Kirkland Signature.
Pistachios offer a vibrant color and a unique, slightly sweet flavor as a substitute for hazelnuts in garnishes. Use them in a 1:1 ratio. They work well in both sweet and savory dishes. Wonderful and Trader Joe's offer popular options.
Macadamia nuts are a creamy, rich substitute for hazelnuts in vegan recipes, especially spreads and desserts. Use them in a 1:1 ratio. They blend well into a smooth, buttery consistency. Brands like Mauna Loa and Royal Hawaiian are popular choices.
Coconut flakes can be toasted to replace hazelnuts for texture and flavor in vegan dishes. They offer a tropical twist and can be used in a 1:1 ratio. Expect a different flavor and texture. Bob's Red Mill and Let's Do Organic are recommended brands.
Sunflower seeds are a nut-free alternative, ideal for those with nut allergies. They can be ground and used in baking or as a crust in a 1:1 ratio with hazelnuts. Expect a different flavor profile. Brands like Bob's Red Mill and Gerbs offer sunflower seed products.
Pumpkin seeds, or pepitas, can serve as a nut-free, gluten-free substitute for hazelnuts in recipes. Use them at a 1:1 ratio. They provide a crunchy texture and a subtly sweet, nutty flavor. Look for brands like Go Raw and Terrasoul Superfoods.
Peanuts can be used to create spreads or fillings as an alternative to hazelnuts. They offer a different flavor but still yield that creamy texture when ground. Use in a 1:1 ratio. Popular brands include Jif and Skippy for pre-made peanut spreads.
Cashews are softer and sweeter nuts that can mimic the texture of hazelnut-based spreads when finely ground. Use a 1:1 ratio. They're perfect for a creamier and slightly sweet spread. Brands like Planters and Kirkland Signature are well-known.
| Recipe Category | Substitutes |
|---|---|
| Baking | Almonds, Walnuts |
| Garnishes | Pecans, Pistachios |
| Vegan Recipes | Macadamia Nuts, Coconut Flakes |
| Gluten-Free Recipes | Sunflower Seeds, Pumpkin Seeds |
| Spreads and Fillings | Peanuts, Cashews |
Hazelnuts can be substituted with a variety of other nuts and seeds depending on the recipe and dietary needs. It's important to consider the flavor and texture differences when choosing a substitute. Many of these alternatives not only mimic the characteristics of hazelnuts but also contribute their own unique qualities to a dish.
