Out of Butter? No Problem! 18 Butter Substitutes To Refresh Your Recipe

These butter alternatives are great options in the kitchen.

Butter is a tried and true ingredient that has been kept in the kitchen for centuries. It’s used in practically everything, from cookies and cakes to sauce-making and pan-frying. It can be melted, frozen or even carved into magnificent sculptures. So, what do you do when you can’t find this universal ingredient in your kitchen? Or you’re desperately searching for a calorie-conscious alternative?

In today’s recipe world, there’s a substitute for just about anything. Butter is no exception! While there’s sure to be an alternative for even the pickiest of bakers, you’d be surprised to discover that finding a substitute for butter is easier said than done.

Whether you’re in a pinch or looking for a healthy butter alternative, fear not! Our list of 18 butter substitutes will have you eager to turn up the heat in the kitchen. So before you overload yourself with the possibilities, read through our guide of butter alternatives to keep your baker’s brain at ease.

Butter Substitute

1. Olive oil

If you’re out of butter, there’s a good chance you’ll find olive oil in your kitchen. It’s great for recipes that call for melted butter, but be sure to use three-quarters of the amount.

2. Ghee

If you’ve ever partaken in the Whole 30 diet, you’re all too familiar with this butter substitute. It’s technically a clarified form of butter with a lower lactose content that can be used in pretty much any recipe that calls for butter.

3. Applesauce

Reach for the applesauce if you’re looking to reduce the fat in your baked goods. Though they may turn out a bit dense with this swap, applesauce is a great alternative for those calorie counters.

Related: 18 Healthy Alternative Flour Recipes

4. Avocado

When using avocado instead of butter, opt for a 1:1 swap and be sure to lower your oven by 25 degrees Fahrenheit. Beware, any lighter-colored baked goods might end up with a greenish tint!

5. Vegetable shortening

An easy 1:1 ratio for butter, vegetable shortening can be used in baked goods that don’t depend on the additive flavor of butter. Shortening has a higher melting point than butter, so using this alternative might make your recipe lighter and airier than its butter-baked counterparts.

Related: How to Substitute Ingredients Like a Pro, Including the Best Meat, Baking, and Dairy Substitutions 

6. Coconut oil

This is a great substitute for lactose-intolerant individuals and those looking for a vegan option for their recipe. Coconut oil has a very similar consistency to butter, and it can be used melted or in its solidified state as an alternative.

7. Pumpkin puree

This is a vegan-friendly, moisture-packed swap for your recipe. Be sure to use about ¾ of the amount called for butter when substituting pumpkin puree.

8. Greek yogurt

This swap works well to add moisture and structure to your recipe. For every 8 ounces of butter, replace with ½ cup of greek yogurt.

9. Mayonnaise

While you might be reluctant to use mayonnaise in baked goods, try substituting it when making grilled cheese or scrambled eggs. Or, include mayo when making garlic bread or mashed potatoes.

10. Mashed bananas

This substitute for butter works best with cakes, bread, muffins, and cookies. You’ll want to use a 1:1 swap and keep an eye on that baking time, as mashed bananas can reduce cooking time by 25%.

11. Margarine

The main difference between margarine and butter is that margarine is derived from plant oils, while butter is derived from dairy. While butter might provide a richer flavor, margarine is a suitable substitute in any case.

Related: 50 Bread Recipes You Can Make at Home

12. Nut butters

If you’re looking to add more protein to your recipe, nut butter will do the trick. It’s vegan and can be used for baking recipes that call for melted butter.

13. Prune butter

While you do have to make it yourself, prune butter is a great alternative and can be made in just a few steps. Blend ½ cup of pitted prunes with ¼ cup of hot water. It’s best used for chocolatey recipes that call for melted butter.

14. Canola or vegetable oil

These oils are a great 1:1 substitute for non-pastry items like cookies, cakes, cupcakes, and bread. They are considered an overall healthier substitute for butter and margarine.

15. Pureed beans

Don’t knock it until you try it! In a pinch, you can swap bean puree for butter, but note that cakes may turn out a bit more dense and not as browned.

16. Grapeseed oil

An interesting but easy substitute is grapeseed oil. It has a high smoke point and is considered a “heart-healthy” alternative to butter.

17. Vegan butter

You might think that margarine and vegan butter are the same, but in some cases, margarine may still contain small amounts of dairy. Plant-based butters are completely free of animal products and can be found at most grocery stores.

18. Ricotta

You probably already know that ricotta makes for a great spread on toasts and bagels. Additionally, this magical cheese can be used as a butter substitute in baking! If you’re worried about the fat in butter, opt for a low-fat ricotta cheese as an alternative.

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