Best Butter Substitutes
Out of butter? These are the best butter substitutes you can use in cooking and baking — ranked by how well they work in most recipes. Whether you need a dairy-free swap, a pantry staple alternative, or just ran out mid-recipe, one of these 6 options will have you covered.
Butter Substitution Options
Coconut Oil (refined)
Use instead of Butter
Refined coconut oil is a 1:1 substitute with no coconut taste. It provides similar fat content and richness for baking and cooking. Use unrefined if you want a mild coconut flavor.
¾ cup Olive Oil
Use instead of Butter
Use ¾ cup olive oil for every 1 cup butter. Olive oil adds moisture without the dairy but won't create the same flakiness in pastry. Best in savory baking, quick breads, and cakes.
Vegan Butter (e.g., Miyoko's, Earth Balance)
Use instead of Butter
A direct 1:1 swap that works in baking, cooking, and spreading. Modern vegan butters closely mimic the fat structure of dairy butter and are the most reliable substitute for pastry and cookies.
¾ cup Unsweetened Applesauce
Use instead of Butter
Applesauce replaces butter at ¾:1 ratio in baking and adds moisture, reducing fat significantly. It creates a denser, moister crumb — best in muffins, quick breads, and brownies. Not suitable for frying.
Greek Yogurt
Use instead of Butter
Greek yogurt can replace butter in baking at a 1:1 ratio, adding protein and tang while cutting fat. It creates moist, tender crumb in cakes and muffins but will slightly change the flavor profile.
Ghee
Use instead of Butter
Ghee is clarified butter — lactose and casein have been removed, making it suitable for those with mild dairy sensitivities. Use 1:1. It has a richer, nuttier flavor and a higher smoke point than butter.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best substitute for butter?
The best substitutes for butter are Coconut Oil (refined), ¾ cup Olive Oil, Vegan Butter (e.g., Miyoko's, Earth Balance). Refined coconut oil is a 1:1 substitute with no coconut taste. It provides similar fat content and richness for baking and cooking. Use unrefined if you want a mild coconut flavor.
Can I use ¾ cup Olive Oil instead of butter?
Use ¾ cup olive oil for every 1 cup butter. Olive oil adds moisture without the dairy but won't create the same flakiness in pastry. Best in savory baking, quick breads, and cakes.
How do I substitute butter in baking?
When substituting butter in baking, it's important to match the ratio carefully. Check the individual substitution notes above for exact measurements and tips for each swap.
