Substitute for Margarine: 7 Smart Options
The best substitute for margarine is Butter at a Same amount (1:1) ratio. There are 6 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Butter
Same amount (1:1)
Butter works as a substitute for margarine in many recipes. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
What are the other substitutes for margarine?
Applesauce
Use 50%
Applesauce is a workable stand-in for margarine. Use 50% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. It is especially useful in sauces.
Canola Oil
Use 75%
Canola Oil works as a substitute for margarine in many recipes. Use 75% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. It is especially useful in baking.
Coconut Oil
Same amount (1:1)
Coconut Oil is a workable stand-in for margarine. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. It is especially useful in baking.
Oil
Use 75%
Oil is a workable stand-in for margarine. Use 75% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
Olive Oil
Use 75%
Olive Oil is a workable stand-in for margarine. Use 75% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. It still gives the dish useful savory depth.
Shortening
Same amount (1:1)
You can use Shortening in place of margarine when needed. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
What should you know before substituting margarine?
Butter is the easiest starting point because it stays closest to margarine in everyday cooking. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Focus on whether you need the closest flavor, the right texture, or simply the easiest pantry backup. If you need a plant-based option, Applesauce is a solid alternative.
How do you substitute margarine in a recipe?
When a recipe calls for margarine and you need an alternative, there are 7 tested substitutes available. Butter is the best overall replacement, used at a Same amount (1:1) ratio. The right substitute depends on the role margarine plays in your recipe: whether it provides flavor, texture, moisture, or structure.
The best substitute for margarine depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Butter (Same amount (1:1)), which works well for most recipes.
If you need a different option, Applesauce (Use 50%) is another reliable choice. Applesauce is a workable stand-in for margarine. Use 50% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. It is especially useful in sauces.
When substituting margarine, consider the flavor profile, texture, and cooking method of your recipe. For vegan alternatives, look for the options marked with the vegan badge above.
Substitution ratios verified against USDA FoodData Central and FoodSafety.gov. See our testing methodology for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best substitute for Margarine?
Butter is the best place to start for margarine. Use a 1:1 swap and then adjust after tasting if the dish needs a little more intensity or balance.
How many substitutes are there for Margarine?
This page lists 7 substitutes for margarine. The best pick depends on whether you want the closest flavor, similar texture, or simply the easiest pantry backup.
What is a vegan substitute for Margarine?
Applesauce is a good vegan option for margarine. Start with 50% of the original amount and fine-tune after tasting.