Substitute for Butter

Fat and water; contributes flavor, browning, and structure.

  1. 1
    Olive oil3/4 cup oil per 1 cup butter
    Best

    Savory cooking only; changes flavor noticeably.

    sauteing, roasting, savory breads frostings, flaky pastry
  2. 2
    Coconut oil1:1

    Solid at cool temps; cuts in like butter.

    baking, vegan pastry
  3. 3
    Unsweetened applesauce1/2 cup applesauce per 1 cup butter

    Cuts fat by ~50%; cakier, moister, less rich.

    quick breads, muffins cookies, pie crust
  4. 4
    Vegan butter stick1:1

    Best 1:1 swap for baking; brand matters (look for 80%+ fat).

    baking, frostings

Keep in mind. In flaky/laminated doughs, only butter or a high-fat vegan stick will create proper layers.

Recipes that use butter

Other dairy swaps

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