Substitute for Chocolate Chips: 1 Smart Options
The best substitute for chocolate chips is Chopped chocolate bar at a Same amount (1:1) ratio. There are 2 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Chopped chocolate bar
Same amount (1:1)
Chopped chocolate bar is a workable stand-in for chocolate chips. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
What are the other substitutes for chocolate chips?
Cacao Nibs
1 cup cacao nibs per 1 cup chocolate chips
Crushed cacao beans with intense chocolate flavor. No added sugar. Crunchy rather than melty.
Flavor/texture:Intensely chocolatey and bitter. No sweetness. Adds crunch instead of melty pockets.
Avoid when:Bitter and unsweetened. Do not melt like chocolate chips. Very different texture (crunchy, not smooth). Best mixed with sweetened ingredients.
M&Ms or Candy-Coated Chocolate
1 cup M&Ms per 1 cup chocolate chips
Adds color and a candy shell crunch. Fun alternative in cookies and brownies.
Flavor/texture:Sweeter and crunchier. Candy shell adds texture. More of a candy flavor than pure chocolate.
Avoid when:Sweeter than chocolate chips. Candy coating may crack in high heat. Contains artificial colors. Check allergen info.
What should you know before substituting chocolate chips?
Chopped chocolate bar is the easiest starting point because it stays closest to chocolate chips in everyday cooking. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Cocoa intensity and sweetness vary widely, so taste the batter or filling before you finish the recipe.
How do you substitute chocolate chips in a recipe?
When a recipe calls for chocolate chips and you need an alternative, there are 3 tested substitutes available. Chopped chocolate bar is the best overall replacement, used at a Same amount (1:1) ratio. The right substitute depends on the role chocolate chips plays in your recipe: whether it provides flavor, texture, moisture, or structure.
The best substitute for chocolate chips depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Chopped chocolate bar (Same amount (1:1)), which works well for most recipes.
If you need a different option, Cacao Nibs (1 cup cacao nibs per 1 cup chocolate chips) is another reliable choice. Crushed cacao beans with intense chocolate flavor. No added sugar. Crunchy rather than melty.
When substituting chocolate chips, 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 Chocolate Chips?
Chopped chocolate bar is the best place to start for chocolate chips. Use a 1:1 swap and then adjust after tasting if the dish needs a little more intensity or balance.
How many substitutes are there for Chocolate Chips?
This page lists 1 substitute for chocolate chips. The best pick depends on whether you want the closest flavor, similar texture, or simply the easiest pantry backup.