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Butter Substitute

Ran out of butter mid-recipe? These substitutes work for baking, sautéing, and spreading.

7 Best Substitutes for Butter

1

Margarine

1:1
Closest substitute. Use stick margarine for baking, not tub spreads.
2

Coconut Oil

1:1 (solid form)
Great for baking. Adds subtle coconut flavor. Use refined for neutral taste.
3

Vegetable Oil

¾ cup oil + ¼ cup = 1 cup butter (reduce slightly)
Use ¾ the amount. Works in cakes and muffins — adds moisture.
4

Applesauce

½ cup applesauce = 1 cup butter
Fat-free option for muffins and quick breads. Reduce sugar in recipe.
5

Greek Yogurt

½ cup yogurt = 1 cup butter
Adds protein and tang. Best in cakes and pancakes.
6

Shortening

1:1
Neutral flavor. Excellent for pie crusts and cookies — makes them flakier.
7

Olive Oil

¾ cup olive oil = 1 cup butter
Best for sautéing and savory dishes. Use light olive oil for baking.
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💡 Pro Tip

When substituting butter, the best choice depends on what you're making. Baking is chemistry — stick to the recommended ratios. Cooking is more forgiving — feel free to experiment with amounts.

More Dairy & Eggs Substitutes

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Eggs Substitute

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Heavy Cream Substitute

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best butter substitute?

The best butter substitute is margarine — closest substitute. use stick margarine for baking, not tub spreads.

Can I use this substitute in baking?

Most of our listed substitutes work in baking. Check the description for each option — we note which work best for baked goods vs. cooking. When baking, always follow the exact ratio given.

Is there a dairy-free butter substitute?

Some of the substitutes listed above are dairy-free. Check each option's description for dietary compatibility.

How much butter substitute should I use?

Each substitute listed above includes exact ratios (e.g., "1:1"). Follow these precisely for best results, especially in baking where ratios are critical.

Will the taste change if I substitute butter?

Yes, the taste may change slightly depending on which substitute you use. Some (like our top pick) have a neutral flavor. Others may add subtle notes — we describe these in each substitute's details so you can choose based on your recipe.