Substitute for Hollandaise Sauce: 3 Smart Options
The best substitute for hollandaise sauce is Mayonnaise + Lemon Juice + Warm Butter at a Same amount (1:1) ratio. There are 2 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Mayonnaise + Lemon Juice + Warm Butter
Same amount (1:1)
Mayonnaise + Lemon Juice + Warm Butter works as a substitute for hollandaise sauce in many recipes. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. It is especially useful in sauces. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
What are the other substitutes for hollandaise sauce?
Greek Yogurt + Lemon + Herbs
Same amount (1:1)
Greek Yogurt + Lemon + Herbs is a workable stand-in for hollandaise sauce. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. It is especially useful in sauces. If you are building the substitute from multiple ingredients, mix it fully before it goes into the recipe.
Sour Cream + Melted Butter + Lemon
Same amount (1:1)
Sour Cream + Melted Butter + Lemon works as a substitute for hollandaise sauce in many recipes. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Texture runs thicker than the original, so a splash of liquid may help in thinner preparations. Texture runs looser than the original, which matters most in baking and creamy sauces. It is especially useful in baking and sauces.
What should you know before substituting hollandaise sauce?
Mayonnaise + Lemon Juice + Warm Butter is the easiest starting point because it stays closest to hollandaise sauce in everyday cooking. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Salt, sweetness, and acidity can swing quickly here, so make the swap and then fine-tune to taste.
How do you substitute hollandaise sauce in a recipe?
When a recipe calls for hollandaise sauce and you need an alternative, there are 3 tested substitutes available. Mayonnaise + Lemon Juice + Warm Butter is the best overall replacement, used at a Same amount (1:1) ratio. The right substitute depends on the role hollandaise sauce plays in your recipe: whether it provides flavor, texture, moisture, or structure.
The best substitute for hollandaise sauce depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Mayonnaise + Lemon Juice + Warm Butter (Same amount (1:1)), which works well for most recipes.
If you need a different option, Greek Yogurt + Lemon + Herbs (Same amount (1:1)) is another reliable choice. Greek Yogurt + Lemon + Herbs is a workable stand-in for hollandaise sauce. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. It is especially useful in sauces. If you are building the substitute from multiple ingredients, mix it fully before it goes into the recipe.
When substituting hollandaise sauce, consider the flavor profile, texture, and cooking method of your recipe.
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 Hollandaise Sauce?
Mayonnaise + Lemon Juice + Warm Butter is the best place to start for hollandaise sauce. 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 Hollandaise Sauce?
This page lists 3 substitutes for hollandaise sauce. The best pick depends on whether you want the closest flavor, similar texture, or simply the easiest pantry backup.