Butter and Oil Substitutions

The Conversion Ratio

Butter is 80% fat and 20% water and milk solids. Oil is 100% fat. So 1 cup butter (225g) = ¾ cup oil (168g). The general ratio is: multiply butter by 0.75 to get oil. To go the other way, multiply oil by 1.33.

Texture Differences in Baking

Oil produces moister, denser baked goods. Butter gives more flavour and lift (from air incorporated during creaming). Cakes made with oil stay moist longer. Cookies made with butter spread more during baking.

Best Oils for Baking

Neutral oils (vegetable, sunflower, refined coconut) don't add flavour. Olive oil works well in savoury baking and gives a fruity note to sweet baking. Avoid strong-flavoured oils unless the flavour is intentional.

Butter to Oil Converter

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