Cooking Substitutions, Recalculated
Home / Butter & Oils / Vegetable oil

What can I use instead of vegetable oil?

Best substitute for 1 cup vegetable oil
1 cup melted butter
Melted butter — 1:1; adds flavor.
cups
Amounts below are for 1 cup vegetable oil

4 substitutes for vegetable oil

SubstituteUse this muchNotes
Melted butter1 cup melted butter1:1; adds flavor.
Olive oil1 cup olive oilUse light olive oil for a neutral taste.
Coconut oil1 cup melted coconut oil1:1; mild coconut note.
Applesauce1 cup unsweetened applesauceFor baking; cuts fat, denser crumb.

Vegetable oil is a neutral, all-purpose fat. Most other neutral oils - and melted butter - swap in at 1:1 for baking and cooking.

Tips

  • Most neutral oils swap 1:1 for one another.
  • For frying, pick a high-smoke-point oil like canola or peanut.

FAQ

Can I use butter instead of vegetable oil?
Yes - melt an equal amount of butter, though it adds flavor and a little water.
What's a healthier oil swap?
Olive or avocado oil are good choices for most cooking.