Best Margarine Substitutes
What Can I Use Instead of Margarine in a Recipe?
Use the same amount as the original. Direct 1:1 replacement with better flavor and texture in most applications. Butter may brown faster in pan-frying.
Need to replace Margarine in a recipe? These 7 alternatives have you covered. From pantry staples to specialty swaps, this guide walks through every practical Margarine replacement you can use in cooking and baking — with the ratios you need to get it right. Ideal if you need to save money at the store or keep things plant-based. The top pick is Butter — it's the closest match for most recipes. Direct 1:1 replacement with better flavor and texture in most applications. Butter may brown faster in pan-frying.
Want exact ratios calculated for your specific recipe? Use the free SubSwap calculator.
Get ratios for Margarine →All Margarine Substitutes (7 options)
Direct 1:1 replacement with better flavor and texture in most applications. Butter may brown faster in pan-frying.
Use 1/2 cup applesauce per 1 cup margarine. Reduces fat and adds moisture but may make baked goods cake-like; best for brownies and quick breads.
Use 3/4 cup per 1 cup margarine. Works well in baking and frying; results may be slightly denser in baked goods.
Direct 1:1 replacement with higher smoke point. Use refined coconut oil to minimize coconut flavor; works well in baking and high-heat cooking.
Use 3/4 cup oil per 1 cup margarine since oil is denser and has no water content. Best for cakes, cookies, and frying.
Use 3/4 cup oil per 1 cup margarine. Works well in savory dishes; use mild-flavored variety to avoid overpowering delicate recipes.
Direct 1:1 replacement that produces flakier pastries and cookies. May require slight liquid reduction in some recipes.
As an Amazon Associate, SubSwap earns from qualifying purchases.
Tips for Substituting Margarine
For most recipes, Butter is the best starting point. Direct 1:1 replacement with better flavor and texture in most applications. Butter may brown faster in pan-frying. Going plant-based? Olive Oil, Oil are both vegan-friendly options that work well in most recipes. Watching your grocery budget? Canola Oil is the most wallet-friendly swap and does a solid job in most uses. If you're unsure which Margarine substitute to use, think about why the original is in the recipe: flavor, texture, moisture, or binding? Choose the substitute that best matches that function.
Common Questions About Margarine Substitutes
The best substitute for Margarine is Butter. Use the same amount. Direct 1:1 replacement with better flavor and texture in most applications. Butter may brown faster in pan-frying.
This guide lists 7 Margarine alternatives. The best one depends on your recipe, dietary needs, and what you have on hand — check the substitution cards above for details on each.
Olive Oil is a great plant-based alternative to Margarine. Use 3/4 cup oil per 1 cup margarine. Works well in savory dishes; use mild-flavored variety to avoid overpowering delicate recipes.
Also commonly substituted
Related ingredients
New ingredients and substitutions added regularly. Get notified first — no spam.
SubSwap is free. If it saved your recipe, consider buying me a coffee ☕
☕ Buy me a coffee