The Purpose of an Egg Wash
Before selecting a substitute, it is helpful to understand why bakers use egg wash in the first place. An egg wash is typically a mixture of a beaten egg and a liquid, like water or milk, that is brushed onto dough before baking. It serves several key functions:
- Color and Shine: The proteins and fats in eggs react with heat to create a desirable golden-brown color and a beautiful gloss. The level of shine can be controlled by adjusting the ratio of egg to liquid or using different parts of the egg.
- Sealing: It acts as a glue to seal the edges of pastries, such as turnovers or hand pies, ensuring fillings don't leak out.
- Adhesion: The tacky surface created by an egg wash is perfect for helping toppings like seeds, herbs, or coarse sugar stick to the dough.
Dairy-Based Egg Wash Substitutes
If you are not avoiding dairy, some of the best and easiest alternatives can be found in your refrigerator.
Milk or Cream
Milk and cream are arguably the most common dairy-based alternatives. A simple brush of milk or heavy cream will give baked goods a lovely, softened brown finish. Higher fat content, like in heavy cream, provides more browning and shine. For extra browning and a homestyle glaze, some bakers recommend sprinkling a little sugar on top of the dairy wash before baking.
Melted Butter
For a rich, golden finish with a buttery flavor, melted butter is an excellent choice. It is particularly well-suited for pastries, rolls, and biscuits. The butter can give the surface a crispy texture, but it is important to apply a light, even layer. Too much can result in a greasy-looking baked good. Unlike egg wash, melted butter is not an effective adhesive for toppings like seeds.
Yogurt
Plain yogurt can be used as a binding agent for breaded foods. It provides a great surface for flour and breadcrumbs to adhere to. If it's too thick, you can thin it with a little water before using. For a glaze on pastries, it can offer a light browning, especially Greek yogurt, but it will not provide a high-gloss finish.
Vegan and Plant-Based Alternatives
For those who are vegan or have egg allergies, there are many effective plant-based options available.
Aquafaba (Chickpea Liquid)
Aquafaba, the viscous liquid from a can of chickpeas, is a remarkable vegan substitute. It mimics the properties of egg whites exceptionally well and can provide a great shine. A simple aquafaba wash can be brushed directly onto dough. For an even more impressive sheen, some bakers whip aquafaba with a touch of agave or corn syrup. It is suitable for both sweet and savory recipes, including vegan meringue.
Plant-Based Milks
Unsweetened plant-based milks like soy, almond, and oat milk can be used to promote browning on pastries and breads. Soy milk often provides the most golden color, while almond milk can add a nutty flavor. Combining plant milk with a sweetener like maple syrup can improve both the color and shine. However, plant milks are not effective for binding and won't produce the same high gloss as an egg wash.
Oil-Based Washes
Vegetable oil, olive oil, or melted vegan butter can be brushed on for a crispy, golden-brown crust. Oil is a great vegan option for savory bakes like pizza crust or savory pies. It provides some shine but, like melted butter, is not ideal for holding toppings. Be mindful of the oil's flavor profile; a light olive oil works well for savory dishes, while neutral vegetable oil is more versatile.
Maple Syrup or Honey
For sweet pastries, a brush of maple syrup or honey can create a beautiful caramelized glaze. This will also contribute to a darker, more golden color. These washes are best for baked goods that require a shorter cooking time, as the sugar can burn at high temperatures or over long periods. For longer bakes, consider applying the syrup near the end of the cooking process.
Cornstarch Slurry
A cornstarch slurry—a mix of cornstarch and water—can be brushed onto baked goods to provide a glossy, almost translucent shine. To make, whisk about 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 3-4 teaspoons of cold water until smooth. This is a simple and effective vegan option, especially for fruit tarts and pies, but does not provide color.
Simple Pantry Staples
If you need a fast and easy option with ingredients you almost certainly have, consider these:
- Water: For simple adhesion or a minimal-sheen finish, plain water is a functional, though not glamorous, solution. It will help toppings stick but won't provide much color or gloss.
- Sugar Water: A sugar water solution (equal parts sugar and water, heated until dissolved) can give a sweet glaze and some browning. It's particularly useful for sweet baked goods.
Comparison of Egg Wash Alternatives
| Substitute | Shine Level | Browning | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Milk / Heavy Cream | Medium | Good | Pastries, rolls, biscuits | Cream provides more shine than milk |
| Melted Butter | Low-Medium | Good | Savory pastries, scones | Can become greasy if over-applied |
| Olive Oil | Medium | Good | Savory breads, pizza dough | Use a light hand to prevent greasiness |
| Aquafaba | High | Low-Medium | Vegan pastries, sweet/savory | Best vegan option for shine |
| Plant Milk + Syrup | Medium-High | Good | Sweet rolls, danishes | Combine plant milk with maple or agave for best results |
| Cornstarch Slurry | High | None | Fruit tarts, pies | Provides a translucent glaze, no color |
| Maple Syrup / Honey | Medium | High | Sweet bakes, short cook time | Can burn easily; adds sweetness |
| Mayonnaise | Medium | Medium | Savory bakes, breading | Contains eggs, so not for egg allergies |
Choosing the Right Substitute
The best egg wash substitute depends on the desired outcome. For a rich, golden color and shine on classic pastries, a dairy option like heavy cream is very effective. Vegans can achieve a similar effect with aquafaba or a plant milk and syrup mixture. When sealing edges or simply adding a hint of moisture, even plain water can suffice. For adding toppings, options with higher viscosity like yogurt (for breading) or aquafaba (for seeds) work best. Consider the flavor profile of your baked good and your dietary needs when making your choice.
Conclusion
Whether you're dealing with an egg allergy, are following a vegan diet, or simply forgot to buy eggs, you have many excellent options to replace egg wash. The perfect substitute will achieve your desired finish, from a high-gloss sheen to a rich, golden color, using ingredients you likely already have on hand. Experiment with different alternatives to discover your favorite finishes for all your baking projects. For more insights into the role of egg wash, see this resource from Food Network.
