Butter Substitute

Butter is about 80% fat and 16–18% water. Swaps change texture and flavour, so match the job.

Vegetable or olive oil¾ cup oilUse ¾ as much, since oil is 100% fat. Great in muffins; not for creaming.
Coconut oil (solid)1 cup solid coconut oilCreams like butter; refined oil has no coconut taste.
Shortening1 cup vegetable shortening + 2 tbsp water or milkFlakier pastry, less flavour.
Greek yogurt½ cup Greek yogurtReplaces half the butter in cakes for a lighter crumb.

Missing something else? Ask the substitute helper

Answers come from an AI model and may be imperfect; for allergies, always check labels.

Questions cooks ask

What is the best substitute for butter?

Vegetable or olive oil: ¾ cup oil per 1 cup. Use ¾ as much, since oil is 100% fat. Great in muffins; not for creaming.

Why does butter matter in a recipe?

Butter is about 80% fat and 16–18% water. Swaps change texture and flavour, so match the job.