Looking for a substitute for butter? Maybe you’re out of butter, or perhaps you’re looking to make a recipe plant based or vegan? Either way: we’re here to help! Keep in mind that the best substitute depends on what type of recipe you’re making. Baked recipes are different from cooking with butter.
Best substitute for butter
1. Coconut oil (best for baking).
A good substitute for butter in baking is the same amount of coconut oil! Coconut oil is an oil that comes from the flesh of coconuts. It’s used in cooking, especially in vegan baking as a substitute for butter. Because coconut oil is also solid at room temperature, the properties are similar. But keep in mind: the flavor and texture of coconut oil vs butter are slightly different.
Butter yields a more rich, savory flavor than coconut oil. It also gives a chewier, moister texture to baked goods like cookies.Coconut oil can sometimes lend a light coconut flavor. It makes for slightly denser cookies than butter. Refined coconut oil has a more neutral taste than unrefined coconut oil, so it would have less effect on the flavor. You also may want to add a bit of salt to mimic the natural saltiness of butter.
2. Olive oil (non-baked).
Olive oil works well as a 1-for-1 substitute for butter. We don’t recommend using olive oil in baked goods because the flavor can be strong. But it works well in savory recipes like soups and sauteing.
3. Neutral oil, like grapeseed oil or sunflower oil.
Neutral oils are a great choice as a 1-for-1 substitute for butter. This works well in things like quick breads and muffins. You also may want to add a bit of salt to mimic the natural saltiness of butter.
Related recipes
Here are some of our favorite recipes that use butter:
Garlic Butter Shrimp Oatmeal Chocolate Chip CookiesParmesan PotatoesCozy Vegetarian Pot PieThe Best Peach PieHomemade Pie CrustEasy Garlic BreadEasy Instant Pot Oatmeal
