Plant-Based Fats

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When baking, fat plays a major role in the final product. Butter is often used in baking to make a tender, fluffy cake, so it is important to have the proper balance when replacing it with other fats. My preferences are healthy vegetable oils that, like butter, coat the air bubbles in the batter for a fluffy texture and add just the right amount of fat for a tender baked good. When replacing butter with a liquid oil, use ¼ cup less oil per 1 cup butter. For solid fats, I recommend a 1:1 ratio.

Safflower and Sunflower Oils

Safflower oil is my favorite vegetable oil for baking and cooking. Its mild flavor makes it very versatile in the kitchen, and it has little to no saturated fat. Sunflower oil is very similar, with little saturated fat and a subtle flavor, and can be used interchangeably with safflower oil in my recipes.

Coconut Oil

With its distinct flavor, coconut oil is best used in coconut desserts.

Applesauce

For a nonfat butter substitute, applesauce is a perfect replacement. While it adds moisture to a baked good, the pectin that it contains also mimics fat and helps retain air bubbles during baking for a light and fluffy texture. Use a 1:1 ratio to replace butter.

Avocado

Avocados are a great source of healthy fats and have many nutritional values. The fruit’s creamy, fatty texture makes a great healthy alternative to butter. Since avocado has a distinct flavor and color, I recommend using it in chocolate recipes, where the chocolate will mask the avocado taste. Like with applesauce or solid fats, use a 1:1 ratio to replace butter.

Non-Hydrogenated Palm Shortening

Palm oil is a vegetable oil that is derived from the pulp of the palm oil tree. Palm shortening is made by removing most of the unsaturated fats from the palm oil, which makes it semi-solid at room temperature. When mixed at a high speed, it doubles in volume and becomes incredibly fluffy. The texture makes a perfect icing that mocks buttercream very well. Because of the high saturated fat content, I recommend using it in moderation.

Unsalted Nondairy Butters

Many nondairy butters (vegan butter substitutes) contain soy or salt. If you are sensitive to any additive ingredients, make sure to read the label.