Sure, we know how it goes: you’re trying out a new dish and suddenly realize you need a vegan butter substitute.
We’ve been through that scramble and guess what? It led to some pretty tasty discoveries. From spreading on toast to sautéing veggies, vegan butter can really shine.
And who knew there were so many options out there? From coconut oil to cashew butter, the variety is wild.
So, let’s talk about our top five picks that will not only do the job but also add that extra flavor you’re craving. Ready to have your mind blown by some buttery goodness? Let’s go!

Top 5 Vegan Butter Substitutes
Here are our top five vegan butter substitutes that will make your taste buds dance and your heart happy.
1 – Coconut Oil
First, coconut oil has this unbeatable tropical aroma.
It’s like a vacation in every spoonful. It’s got a great balance of savory and sweet.
Smooth and creamy, perfect for spreading.
We noticed it gives a nice, mild coconut flavor to dishes. We used it for baking and frying, and it worked like a charm.
Plus, it’s solid at room temp, which is handy.
Oh, and if you’re curious about other coconut oil substitutes, check out these alternatives for more ideas.
2 – Olive Oil
The richness of olive oil is unparalleled. It has this subtle peppery kick that we can’t get enough of.
It’s light and fruity but also has depth.
We’ve spread it on toast, and it’s splendid. Frying veggies? Use olive oil for added finesse.
This handy option is liquid at room temp and versatile in every dish.
It’s less neutral than coconut oil, lending a unique flair to recipes. For other olive oil alternatives, browse our detailed list here.
3 – Avocado
Avocado is a creamy wonder. It’s got a mild, buttery flavor that’s rich and smooth. Unique? Absolutely. Tried spreading it on toast? It’s like a high-five for your taste buds.
This one’s great for more than toast. Hits the mark in baking too.
Important note? It’s not good for frying because it has a low smoking point.
Plus, it’s packed with good fats. Great for making dishes lush without being too heavy. Give avocado a try and see how it adds a delightful twist.
4 – Nut Butters
Next, nut butters really bring the wow factor. Think of the rich, creamy goodness in each spreadable portion. Peanut butter has a delightfully robust, nutty flavor that’s perfect for sandwiches.
Cashew butter, on the other hand, is creamier and a bit milder. We love it for smoothies and sauces. Both options add a luscious, smooth texture to anything you make.
Not great for frying due to low smoke points, but stellar for no-bake bites. For more details, check out our peanut butter substitutes and cashew butter substitutes.
5 – Applesauce
Last up is applesauce. It’s a smooth and sweet option with a mild apple flavor. We find it perfect for baking. It keeps cakes and muffins moist.
We also tried it in pancakes, and it added a subtle sweetness.
Not great for frying due to the low smoke point. For more substitutes, check out these applesauce alternatives.
Best for baking and making recipes richer without adding fats.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, coconut oil is an excellent substitute for vegan butter, offering a rich texture and mild coconut flavor.
Olive oil works well for sautéing and dressings but may not provide the same richness as vegan butter in baked goods.
Yes, avocado is a creamy, nutrient-packed option for spreads, though it has a more savory flavor than vegan butter.
Nut butters like almond or cashew provide a rich, creamy texture and can replace vegan butter in savory and sweet dishes.
Applesauce is a great substitute in baked goods for moisture and sweetness, though it lacks the richness of vegan butter.

Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.