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Best Substitutes for Butter — What to Use Instead

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Coconut Oil: 1:1 — Best for baking. Adds slight coconut flavor.

Applesauce: 1/2 cup per 1 cup butter — Reduces fat. Best in moist cakes and muffins.

Overview

Top substitute for butter: Coconut Oil (1:1). Best for baking. Adds slight coconut flavor. Plus 5 more alternatives.

Key Details

  • Coconut Oil: 1:1 — Best for baking. Adds slight coconut flavor.
  • Applesauce: 1/2 cup per 1 cup butter — Reduces fat. Best in moist cakes and muffins.
  • Greek Yogurt: 1/2 cup per 1 cup butter — Adds protein and moisture. Great in cakes.
  • Avocado: 1:1 — Healthy fat substitute. May tint baked goods green.
  • Olive Oil: 3/4 cup per 1 cup butter — Good for savory dishes. Strong flavor.
  • Margarine: 1:1 — Direct swap. Look for trans-fat free brands.

Why This Matters

  • Butter is a common ingredient that may need substituting
  • Dietary restrictions (vegan, dairy-free, gluten-free) may require alternatives
  • Sometimes you simply run out of an ingredient mid-recipe
  • Allergies or intolerances may necessitate a swap

How To

  1. 1Best overall substitute: Coconut Oil at 1:1
  2. 2Consider the role of the ingredient (flavor, texture, binding, leavening)
  3. 3Test substitutes in small batches first
  4. 4Adjust other ingredients as noted for best results
  5. 5Some substitutes work better in certain recipes than others

Tags

substitutesdairy-subbutteringredient-swapcooking-tips

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Frequently Asked Questions

The best substitute for butter is Coconut Oil at 1:1. Best for baking. Adds slight coconut flavor.