There are many substitutes for butter depending on the intended use, such as cooking, baking, or spreading. Common alternatives include:
- Mayonnaise: Adds moisture and richness, good for cooking and baking.
- Olive Oil: A healthy option, great for sautéing and pasta dishes.
- Avocado: Creamy and good for baking (1:1 ratio, may change color).
- Applesauce: A healthy swap in baked goods, especially quick breads and muffins.
- Coconut Oil: Works in place of butter in baking and cooking, vegan-friendly.
- Vegetable Shortening: Good 1:1 substitute, lighter baked goods.
- Margarine: Use like butter, especially stick margarine for baking.
- Vegan Butter: A direct non-dairy butter substitute.
- Yogurt: Full-fat yogurt works well in baking for moisture.
- Nut Butter: Adds moisture and nutty flavor in baking.
- Ghee: Clarified butter with a higher smoke point, used 1:1.
- Mashed Bananas: Good for sweet, dense baked goods.
For spreads, options include olive oil (with herbs), nut butters, cream cheese, avocado, or hummus. The choice depends on the recipe and desired flavor or texture, but these commonly substitute butter in cooking, baking, and spreading at comparable ratios, often 1:1.
