Substitute for Palm Oil: 5 Smart Options
The best substitute for palm oil is Coconut Oil at a Same amount (1:1) ratio. There are 4 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Coconut Oil
Same amount (1:1)
You can use Coconut Oil in place of palm oil when needed. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. It is especially useful in baking and sauces.
What are the other substitutes for palm oil?
Butter
Use 120%
You can use Butter in place of palm oil when needed. Use 120% 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.
Red Palm Oil (Unrefined)
Same amount (1:1)
You can use Red Palm Oil (Unrefined) in place of palm oil 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.
Refined Palm Oil
Same amount (1:1)
Refined Palm Oil is a workable stand-in for palm oil. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
Vegetable Oil with Tomato Paste
Same amount (1:1)
You can use Vegetable Oil with Tomato Paste in place of palm oil when needed. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. If you are building the substitute from multiple ingredients, mix it fully before it goes into the recipe.
What should you know before substituting palm oil?
Coconut Oil is the easiest starting point because it stays closest to palm oil in everyday cooking. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Different fats bring different smoke points and flavors, so match the substitute to the cooking method.
How do you substitute palm oil in a recipe?
When a recipe calls for palm oil and you need an alternative, there are 5 tested substitutes available. Coconut Oil is the best overall replacement, used at a Same amount (1:1) ratio. The right substitute depends on the role palm oil plays in your recipe: whether it provides flavor, texture, moisture, or structure.
The best substitute for palm oil depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Coconut Oil (Same amount (1:1)), which works well for most recipes.
If you need a different option, Butter (Use 120%) is another reliable choice. You can use Butter in place of palm oil when needed. Use 120% 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.
When substituting palm oil, 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 American Heart Association. See our testing methodology for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best substitute for Palm Oil?
Coconut Oil is the best place to start for palm oil. 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 Palm Oil?
This page lists 5 substitutes for palm oil. 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 Palm Oil?
Coconut Oil is a good vegan option for palm oil. Start with a 1:1 swap and fine-tune after tasting.