Butter Substitute for Coconut Oil: Exact Ratio
Looking for a coconut oil substitute? Butter works as a direct replacement. Use 1 cup butter per 1 cup coconut oil in any recipe that calls for coconut oil. This swap works best for baking, sautéing, frostings.
Best Substitute
Butter
1 cup butter per 1 cup coconut oil
The closest swap in terms of behavior—both are solid at room temperature. Works 1:1 in baking and cooking. Adds dairy flavor instead of coconut flavor.
Tips When Replacing Coconut Oil in Recipes
The key property of coconut oil is that it is solid below 76°F and liquid above. When a recipe uses coconut oil as a solid fat (for flakiness or firm texture), substitute with another solid fat like butter or shortening. When used melted, any liquid oil works. Refined coconut oil has no coconut flavor.
What Is Coconut Oil and Why Substitute It?
A plant-based fat extracted from coconut meat, available as virgin (coconut flavor) or refined (neutral flavor). Solid at room temperature and melts at 76°F, making it useful as both a solid and liquid fat.
Butter is one of 5 alternatives you can use instead of coconut oil. For a complete list of coconut oil substitutes with ratios and cooking tips, visit the full coconut oil substitute page.
What Else Can I Use Instead of Coconut Oil?
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use butter instead of coconut oil?
Yes, you can use butter as a substitute for coconut oil. Use 1 cup butter per 1 cup coconut oil. The closest swap in terms of behavior—both are solid at room temperature. Works 1:1 in baking and cooking. Adds dairy flavor instead of coconut flavor.
How much butter equals coconut oil?
Use 1 cup butter per 1 cup coconut oil to replace coconut oil with butter. Works best for baking, sautéing, frostings.
What is the best substitute for coconut oil?
Butter is a popular substitute for coconut oil. Use 1 cup butter per 1 cup coconut oil for a 1-to-1 replacement. See all 5 alternatives on our coconut oil substitute page.