10 Alternatives to Butter in Cookies and other Baked Goods
There’s something about the smell of cookies in the oven that feels like a warm hug. But what if you’re out of butter or simply trying to skip it? Perhaps you’re avoiding dairy, reducing your saturated fat intake, or simply trying something new. Either way, you don’t have to give up your favorite treats. Butter has long been the gold standard, but it’s not your only option.
These alternatives can still deliver the taste and feel you want. Some might surprise you, and some might already be in your kitchen.
Applesauce
This is the classic go-to for making cookies a bit healthier. Unsweetened applesauce brings moisture without the fat. It works exceptionally well in soft, cakey cookies, such as oatmeal or spice cookies. If a recipe calls for 1 cup of butter, start with ½ to ¾ cup of applesauce. You might need to reduce sugar slightly, depending on how sweet your applesauce is. The result is lighter, tender cookies with a mild apple note.
Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt brings protein and tang to the table. It makes cookies more tender and adds a bit of lift. It’s not an even swap, though. Replace half the butter with Greek yogurt to start. This keeps your dough from turning into a wet mess. Plain, full-fat yogurt gives you the best balance of taste and texture.
Avocado
Yes, avocado. It’s creamy, full of healthy fats, and works well in chewy cookies like brownies or chocolate cookies. Mash it smooth before using, and swap it one-for-one with butter. Your dough might take on a green tint, but the taste is mild. Think of it as butter in disguise.
Nut Butters
Peanut, almond, or cashew butter can add richness and a deep flavor. These aren’t just swaps; they’re flavor bombs. Use them when you want that nutty profile baked right into the cookie. They work best in recipes that pair well with nuts, like chocolate chip or oat cookies. Start by substituting half the butter and see how the dough feels. Natural nut butter can make things a little denser, but they’re also more filling.
Mashed Banana
Banana is a budget-friendly and naturally sweet option. It adds moisture and a soft, slightly chewy texture. It’s perfect for oatmeal cookies or anything with chocolate. The flavor is strong, though. Use it only where the banana won’t feel out of place. Use ½ cup of mashed banana for every cup of butter.
Pumpkin Purée
This one’s seasonal but versatile. Canned pumpkin adds moisture and a slightly earthy flavor. It’s not just for October. Pumpkin cookies made with chocolate chips or cinnamon spice taste like a cozy sweater. Use about ¾ cup of pumpkin for each cup of butter. Just make sure it’s pumpkin purée and not pie filling. You don’t want unexpected spices hijacking your recipe.
Vegetable Oil
It’s a straightforward substitute if you’re short on time and ingredients. Use ¾ cup of oil for every cup of butter. It works best in drop cookies and bar cookies, like brownies or blondies. You won’t get the same puff as with butter, but you’ll get a soft texture and quicker mixing. Be aware that cookies might spread more, so give them space on the baking sheet.
Silken Tofu
This one’s for the adventurous. Blend silken tofu until smooth, then use ¼ cup for every ½ cup of butter. It’s perfect in dense or moist cookies, like chocolate fudge or molasses cookies. Tofu keeps things soft and holds moisture well. You won’t taste it, and the protein boost is a quiet bonus.
Coconut Oil
This one’s a heavy hitter if you still want that rich mouthfeel. It’s solid at room temperature, which makes it feel like butter in many recipes. Use it one-for-one. Virgin coconut oil has a distinct coconut scent and taste, which can be pleasant in certain cookies, such as macaroons or chocolate chip cookies. If that’s not your vibe, opt for refined coconut oil, which is neutral in flavor.
Vegan Butter
If you’re looking for the closest match to real butter without dairy, this is your choice. Vegan butter is made from plant oils and often mimics the taste and texture of dairy butter. Use them one-for-one in any recipe. Brands vary, so try a few to find one that works best for your baking needs. These are great when you don’t want to tinker with a trusted family recipe but still need it to be dairy-free.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
Read More:
- Ultimate Guide To Picking The Best Travel Credit Card
- The 5 Best Budget Airlines in the United States
- 15 Best Countrıes to Vısıt in Afrıca
