Substitute for Walnut Oil: 4 Smart Options
The best substitute for walnut oil is Extra-Virgin Olive Oil at a Same amount (1:1) ratio. There are 3 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Extra-Virgin Olive Oil
Same amount (1:1)
Extra-Virgin Olive Oil works as a substitute for walnut oil in many recipes. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. It is especially useful in vinaigrettes.
What are the other substitutes for walnut oil?
Almond Oil
Same amount (1:1)
You can use Almond Oil in place of walnut oil when needed. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. The flavor lands a bit softer than the original, so you may want a final taste adjustment. It is especially useful in baking and vinaigrettes. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
Hazelnut Oil
Same amount (1:1)
Hazelnut Oil is a workable stand-in for walnut oil. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. It is especially useful in baking and desserts.
Pecan Oil
Same amount (1:1)
Pecan Oil is a workable stand-in for walnut oil. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
What should you know before substituting walnut oil?
Extra-Virgin Olive Oil is the easiest starting point because it stays closest to walnut oil in everyday cooking. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Different fats bring different smoke points and flavors, so match the substitute to the cooking method.
How do you substitute walnut oil in a recipe?
When a recipe calls for walnut oil and you need an alternative, there are 4 tested substitutes available. Extra-Virgin Olive Oil is the best overall replacement, used at a Same amount (1:1) ratio. The right substitute depends on the role walnut oil plays in your recipe: whether it provides flavor, texture, moisture, or structure.
The best substitute for walnut oil depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Extra-Virgin Olive Oil (Same amount (1:1)), which works well for most recipes.
If you need a different option, Almond Oil (Same amount (1:1)) is another reliable choice. You can use Almond Oil in place of walnut oil when needed. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. The flavor lands a bit softer than the original, so you may want a final taste adjustment. It is especially useful in baking and vinaigrettes. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
When substituting walnut oil, 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 American Heart Association. See our testing methodology for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best substitute for Walnut Oil?
Extra-Virgin Olive Oil is the best place to start for walnut oil. 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 Walnut Oil?
This page lists 4 substitutes for walnut oil. The best pick depends on whether you want the closest flavor, similar texture, or simply the easiest pantry backup.