What are some substitutes for butter?

When you need to substitute butter in cooking or baking, there are several options you can consider, each with its own characteristics and uses. Here are some common butter substitutes:

Olive Oil

Olive oil can be used as a substitute for butter, especially in recipes where the butter is melted or used for sautéing. However, it's not suitable for recipes that require solid fat, like frosting or angel food cake. Use about 3/4 cup of olive oil for every 1 cup of butter called for in the recipe23.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is a versatile substitute that can be used in both its solid and melted forms. It works well in baked goods like cakes, brownies, and muffins. Refined coconut oil is recommended if you don't want a strong coconut flavor123.

Margarine

Margarine is a common substitute for butter and can be used in a 1:1 ratio. It helps cookies keep their shape better than butter and is suitable for baking cookies, cakes, and doughnuts134.

Vegetable Shortening

Vegetable shortening is another 1:1 substitute for butter, particularly good for baked goods where butter adds structure but not flavor. It results in lighter and airier baked goods13.

Avocado

Avocado can be used as a butter substitute in baking, especially in muffins, banana bread, and cupcakes. Use a 1:1 ratio, but note that it may add a greenish tint and require a lower oven temperature123.

Applesauce

Unsweetened applesauce is a healthy substitute for butter, reducing calorie and fat content. Use half the amount of applesauce as the butter called for in the recipe, and adjust the sugar content accordingly123.

Greek Yogurt

Full-fat Greek yogurt adds richness and a tangy flavor to baked goods. It can be used in a 1:1 ratio for butter, especially in cakes and cookies123.

Mayonnaise

Mayonnaise can be used as a substitute for melted butter in recipes like grilled cheese or scrambled eggs. Use half the amount of mayonnaise as the butter called for13.

Ghee

Ghee, or clarified butter, is suitable for savory recipes and high-temperature baking. However, it provides more moisture than butter, so you may need to adjust the liquid and flour in your recipes23.

Vegan Butter

Vegan butter is an ideal substitute for those following a dairy-free diet. It can be used in the same amount as regular butter and works well in baked goods and buttercream frosting123.

Prune Butter

Prune butter, made by blending prunes with hot water, is best used in rich, spiced, or chocolatey recipes. It can be used as a 1:1 substitute but may impart a different flavor13.

Canned Pumpkin Puree

Pumpkin puree adds moisture and can be used as a substitute for butter in baked goods. Use about 3/4 of the amount of butter called for in the recipe123.

Mashed Bananas

Mashed bananas can be used as a healthy substitute for butter, especially in cookies, cakes, and muffins. One banana is roughly equal to one stick of butter23.

Nut Butters

Nut butters like peanut or almond butter can add a nutty flavor and are suitable for dense and heavy baked goods. However, they are high in fat and calories2.

Cream Cheese

Full-fat cream cheese can be used as a butter substitute, especially in savory dishes. Ensure to strain any excess liquid before using it4.

Each of these substitutes has its own unique characteristics, so it may take some experimentation to find the one that works best for your specific recipe.