How can I execute or process PHP code stored in a string without using eval()?

Solution:1

Why reinvent the wheel? Most developers rely on frameworks and templating engines for this. Consider using a proven solution such as Phalcon (and its Volt templating engine) rather than rolling your own.

Links for reference: phalconphp.com — Phalcon docs (Volt templating).

Quick notes & alternatives

Templating engines (Volt, Twig, Plates) are the safest and most maintainable way to process dynamic templates without eval().

If you must interpret PHP-like expressions from strings, prefer a sandboxed approach — e.g., run code in a separate process with strict permissions — instead of eval().

For limited parsing or analysis (not execution), token_get_all() can inspect PHP code safely without running it.

Avoid deprecated or insecure patterns like create_function() or unfiltered eval().