Last Updated on October 25, 2023 by Toya
If you’re looking for simple substitutes for vegetable oil in baking, you’re in the right place. In this article, I will be presenting 15 alternatives to vegetable oil that you can easily incorporate into your recipes.
Whether you’re looking for a healthier alternative or a unique flavor, there is a substitute for everyone. Let’s dive in and discover the best ways to substitute vegetable oil in baking.
Quick and easy ways to substitute for oil in baking
Butter
When it comes to baking, butter is a classic ingredient that can be used as a substitute for vegetable oil. Unlike vegetable oil, butter adds flavor to your baked goods and is a natural source of fat.
Butter is also a healthier alternative to vegetable oil as it contains less saturated fat. However, it is important to note that butter does contain cholesterol, so it should be consumed in moderation and in accordance with your dietary needs.
To use butter as a substitute for vegetable oil in baking, simply melt the butter and use it in the same quantity as the vegetable oil called for in the recipe. You can also use unsalted butter if you prefer less salt in your baked goods.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a popular substitute for vegetable oil in baking due to its numerous health benefits and unique flavor.
When substituting coconut oil for vegetable oil in baking, it is important to use the correct measurement. As coconut oil is solid at room temperature, it needs to be melted before adding it to the recipe. The general rule of thumb is to use ¾ cup of melted coconut oil for every 1 cup of vegetable oil.
Another important thing to consider when using coconut oil as a substitute for vegetable oil is the flavor. Coconut oil has a distinct nutty and sweet flavor that may not be suitable for all recipes. It is best used in recipes with complementary flavors such as chocolate or coconut-based desserts.
Tips for Using Coconut Oil in Baking
To avoid overpowering the recipe with the flavor and aroma of coconut oil, it is recommended to use refined coconut oil instead of the extra-virgin variety. Refined coconut oil is more neutral in flavor and can be used in any recipe that calls for vegetable oil.
Olive Oil
If you’re looking for a healthier and more flavorful alternative to vegetable oil in your baked goods, olive oil is an excellent choice. Not only is it rich in healthy monounsaturated fats, but it also brings a distinct taste to your baked goods.
When using olive oil as a substitute for vegetable oil, there are some factors to consider. First, choose a mild-tasting olive oil, such as extra-virgin or light, to avoid overpowering the flavors of your baked treats. Second, be mindful of the smoke point of your olive oil. While extra-virgin olive oil has a lower smoke point, light olive oil has a higher smoke point, making it more ideal for baking.
To use olive oil as a substitute for vegetable oil in your baking recipes, simply swap out the same amount of vegetable oil for olive oil. For example, if your recipe calls for 1/2 cup of vegetable oil, use 1/2 cup of olive oil instead.
Use it in savory dishes: Olive oil is a great substitute for vegetable oil in savory baked goods such as bread, focaccia, and pizza crusts.
Applesauce
Applesauce can be used as a one-to-one replacement for vegetable oil in most baking recipes. It is low in calories and fat and can provide a sweet and fruity taste to your recipes.
When using applesauce, it is essential to reduce the amount of sugar you add to your recipes, as applesauce is already sweet.
Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute for vegetable oil in baking. It can add a tangy flavor to your recipes, making it perfect for bread, muffins, and cakes.
When using Greek yogurt, it is essential to use the full-fat version to maintain the texture and moisture of your baked goods. You can also consider adding a small amount of water to thin the yogurt to make it liquid.
Using Avocado instead of Oil in Baking
Avocado is a versatile fruit that can be mashed and used as a substitute for vegetable oil in baking.
To use avocado in baking, simply mash the desired amount until smooth and use it in place of oil in your recipe. Keep in mind that the texture and color of the finished product may differ slightly from the original recipe, but the flavor will remain delicious.
Using Pumpkin Puree in Baking
Pumpkin puree is another excellent substitute for vegetable oil in baking.
To use pumpkin puree in baking, simply substitute it in place of oil at a 1:1 ratio.
It is perfect for adding a moist and flavorful texture to baked goods such as muffins, bread, and cakes. Additionally, pumpkin puree can be a great substitute for eggs in vegan baking recipes.
Using Banana as a Substitute for Vegetable Oil
Bananas natural sweetness makes them a perfect addition to baked goods. To use bananas as a substitute for vegetable oil, follow these simple steps:
- Choose a ripe banana and mash it with a fork or puree it in a food processor.
- Use a 1:1 ratio of mashed banana to vegetable oil in your recipe. For example, if your recipe calls for 1 cup of vegetable oil, use 1 cup of mashed banana instead.
- Adjust the sweetness of your recipe accordingly. Since bananas are naturally sweet, you may need to reduce the amount of sugar in your recipe.
Banana works well in recipes such as banana bread, muffins, and cakes. It’s also a great substitute for oil in pancakes and waffles.
Silken Tofu
Silken tofu is a creamy and smooth substitute for vegetable oil that adds protein and texture to your baked goods. To use silken tofu as a substitute for vegetable oil, follow these simple steps:
- Choose a package of silken tofu and drain any excess liquid.
- Puree the silken tofu in a food processor until completely smooth.
- Use a 1:1 ratio of pureed silken tofu to vegetable oil in your recipe. For example, if your recipe calls for 1 cup of vegetable oil, use 1 cup of pureed silken tofu instead.
Silken tofu works well in recipes such as cheesecakes, brownies, and chocolate cakes. It’s also a great substitute for oil in muffins and quick breads.
Mashed sweet potatoes
If you’re looking for unique substitutes for vegetable oil in baking, mashed sweet potatoes are a great option.
Mashed sweet potatoes bring a sweet and earthy flavor to your recipes while adding moisture, making them an excellent addition to cakes, muffins, and bread.
Yogurt
Yogurt is another great substitute for vegetable oil that brings a tangy flavor and creamy texture to your baked goods. To use yogurt as a substitute for vegetable oil, replace half of the oil with an equal amount of plain, unsweetened yogurt. You may need to add a little extra liquid to your recipe to compensate for the reduced fat content.
Milk, Sour Cream, Lard, and Ghee as Substitutes for Vegetable Oil
In addition to the substitutes mentioned in the previous sections, there are a few more options that you can consider when looking for a replacement for vegetable oil.
Milk
Milk is a common ingredient in baking that can be used in place of vegetable oil in some recipes. While it may not provide the same level of fat as vegetable oil, it can add moisture to your baked goods. When using milk as a substitute, it’s important to note that it can alter the flavor and texture of your recipe, so it’s best to start by using a smaller amount and adjusting accordingly.
Sour Cream
Sour cream is another substitute that can be used instead of vegetable oil in baking. It can add moisture to your recipe, making it ideal for many baked goods.
However, it’s important to note that sour cream has a distinct flavor, so it’s best suited for recipes that can benefit from its tangy taste, such as coffee cakes or muffins.
Lard
While lard is not the healthiest substitute for vegetable oil, it has been used in baking for generations and can add a unique flavor and texture to your recipes.
Lard is a solid fat that can be used in place of vegetable oil in some recipes, such as pie crusts or biscuits. It’s important to note that not all recipes can be substituted with lard, as it has a distinct flavor that may not be suitable for all baked goods.
Ghee
Ghee is a type of clarified butter that has been used in traditional Indian cooking for centuries. It has a rich, nutty flavor and can be used in place of vegetable oil in some recipes. Ghee is a healthier alternative to butter or vegetable oil, as it is free of lactose and casein.
Ghee has a lower smoke point than vegetable oil, so it may not be suitable for high-heat cooking.
There are several substitutes for vegetable oil that you can use in your baking recipes. Whether you choose to use traditional ingredients such as butter or explore unique substitutes like avocado or pumpkin puree, you can add a touch of creativity and flavor to your baked goods if you’re out of oil or looking for something healthier to use.