Substitutes for walnuts in cooking include pecans, almonds, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, pine nuts, cashews, hazelnuts, Brazil nuts, shredded coconut, and pretzel pieces. These alternatives provide various flavors and textures to suit different recipes like baked goods, salads, pesto, and snacks.
Pecans are similar in texture and taste to walnuts, making them an excellent substitute in baking. They can be used in a 1:1 ratio. Expect a slightly sweeter flavor. Popular brands include Fisher and Diamond Nuts.
Almonds provide a different flavor but can stand in for walnuts for their crunch in baked goods. Use sliced or chopped almonds in a 1:1 ratio. They may add a more pronounced nutty taste. Well-known brands are Blue Diamond and Kirkland Signature.
Sunflower seeds offer a nutty flavor and crunchy texture that can mimic walnuts in salads. Use them in a 1:1 ratio. They provide a slightly different taste but add a satisfying crunch. Popular brands include David and Spitz.
Pumpkin seeds, or pepitas, can replace walnuts in salads to add a crunchy texture. Use them in a 1:1 ratio. They have a distinct flavor and are a good source of minerals. Brands like Go Raw and Bob's Red Mill are recommended.
Pine nuts are a traditional ingredient in pesto and can replace walnuts to give a creamy texture and buttery flavor. Use them in a 1:1 ratio, keeping in mind they can be more expensive. Look for brands like Kirkland Signature and Trader Joe's.
Cashews are a softer nut that can create a creamy texture in spreads and pesto. They have a mild flavor and can be used in a 1:1 ratio. Soak them beforehand if blending. Popular brands include Planters and Kirkland Signature.
Hazelnuts can be used in place of walnuts for their similar crunchy texture. Use them in a 1:1 ratio. They provide a distinct, rich flavor to snacks and toppings. Brands like Ferrero and Kirkland Signature are well-known.
Brazil nuts offer a similar crunchy texture and are a good substitute for walnuts in snack mixes. Use them in a 1:1 ratio but keep in mind their larger size; chopping them is recommended. Look for brands like Now Foods and Terrasoul Superfoods.
For a nut-free alternative, shredded coconut can provide a similar texture and sweetness in baking. Use in a 1:1 ratio but expect a different flavor profile. Popular brands include Bob's Red Mill and Let's Do Organic.
Pretzel pieces can offer a salty crunch in nut-free recipes. They can be a surprising but delightful substitute in baked goods and snacks. Use in a 1:1 ratio, adjusting for salt content as needed. Brands like Snyder's of Hanover are popular options.
| Recipe Category | Substitutes |
|---|---|
| Baking | Pecans, Almonds |
| Salads | Sunflower Seeds, Pumpkin Seeds |
| Pesto and Spreads | Pine Nuts, Cashews |
| Snacks and Toppings | Hazelnuts, Brazil Nuts |
| Gluten-Free & Nut-Free Recipes | Shredded Coconut, Pretzel Pieces |
Whether you have an allergy, dislike walnuts, or simply ran out, there are plenty of substitutes that can take their place in your cooking. Each substitute offers unique flavors and textures that can enhance your dish in different ways, allowing you to adapt your favorite recipes to suit your dietary needs and preferences.
