Cashew Substitutes: Best Alternatives for Cooking and Vegan Recipes
The best substitute for cashews is Macadamia nuts at a 1:1 ratio. It works best for cream sauces, baking, eating fresh. There are 4 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Macadamia nuts
1:1
Similarly creamy and mild; the closest flavor and texture match.
What are the other substitutes for cashews?
Blanched almonds
1:1
Milder than skin-on almonds; works in cream sauces when soaked.
Pine nuts
1:1
Soft, creamy, and mild; excellent in pesto and cream-based applications.
Sunflower seeds (soaked)
1:1
Nut-free alternative that blends into creamy sauces when soaked.
Peanuts
1:1
Similar crunch in stir-fries; stronger flavor.
What should you know before substituting cashews?
Soak raw cashews for 4-6 hours (or boil for 15 minutes) before blending into cream sauces. Cashew cream is a cornerstone of vegan cooking and can replace dairy cream in most recipes. Roasted cashews are crunchier but do not blend as smoothly.
How do you substitute cashews in a recipe?
Creamy, mild-flavored nuts used in cooking, baking, plant-based cream sauces, and Asian stir-fries.
The best substitute for cashews depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Macadamia nuts (1:1), which works well for cream sauces, baking, eating fresh.
If you need a different option, Blanched almonds (1:1) is another reliable choice. Milder than skin-on almonds; works in cream sauces when soaked.
When substituting cashews, consider the flavor profile, texture, and cooking method of your recipe. For vegan alternatives, look for the options marked with the vegan badge above.
Substitution ratios verified against USDA FoodData Central and FoodSafety.gov. See our testing methodology for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best substitute for cashews in vegan cream sauce?
Soaked sunflower seeds are the best nut-free substitute, or use soaked blanched almonds for a similar result. Both blend smoothly when soaked for 4-6 hours.
What can I use instead of cashews in a stir-fry?
Peanuts are the most common substitute for cashews in stir-fries at a 1:1 ratio, providing similar crunch with a stronger flavor.