16 Healthy Substitutes for Butter in Cookies: Explore Applesauce, Mashed Banana, or Coconut Oil

1. Applesauce

Nutritional Facts: Applesauce is a versatile ingredient that serves as an excellent replacement for butter in cookies. It is naturally sweet and adds moisture to the dough without the need for additional sugar. Applesauce is low in calories and fat, making it a healthier option for those watching their dietary intake. Additionally, it contains essential nutrients like fiber and vitamin C, which contribute to overall health and well-being.

Recipes: To use applesauce as a substitute for butter in cookies, aim for a one-to-one ratio. For example, if a recipe calls for 1 cup of butter, replace it with 1 cup of applesauce. Be mindful of the moisture content and consider reducing the amount of added liquid in your recipe to maintain the proper consistency of the dough. Opt for unsweetened varieties of applesauce to control the overall sweetness of your cookies and achieve a balanced flavor profile.

Tips: When substituting applesauce for butter in cookies, keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly. Experiment with different brands and varieties of applesauce to find the one that best suits your taste preferences. Additionally, consider adding extra spices or flavorings to enhance the taste of your cookies and mask any subtle differences in flavor.

2. Coconut Oil

Nutritional Facts: Coconut oil is a rich and flavorful alternative to butter in cookie recipes. Derived from the flesh of mature coconuts, coconut oil is high in saturated fats, which can contribute to its solid texture at room temperature. However, it’s important to note that coconut oil also contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are believed to have various health benefits, including improved heart health and increased metabolism.

Recipes: When substituting coconut oil for butter in cookies, use a one-to-one ratio. For example, if a recipe calls for 1 cup of butter, replace it with 1 cup of coconut oil. Opt for refined coconut oil if you prefer a milder coconut flavor, as unrefined coconut oil has a stronger coconut taste. Keep in mind that coconut oil solidifies at cooler temperatures, so you may need to melt it before incorporating it into your cookie dough.

Tips: To prevent your cookies from becoming too greasy, chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before baking. This will allow the coconut oil to solidify slightly and help maintain the texture of the cookies. Additionally, consider using coconut oil in recipes that complement its tropical flavor, such as coconut chocolate chip cookies or coconut macaroons.

3. Greek Yogurt

Nutritional Facts: Greek yogurt is a protein-rich alternative to butter in cookie recipes. With its creamy texture and tangy flavor, Greek yogurt adds moisture and richness to the dough without the need for excess fat. It is also a good source of calcium, probiotics, and other essential nutrients, making it a healthier option for those looking to reduce their calorie intake and increase their protein consumption.

Recipes: To use Greek yogurt as a butter substitute in cookies, opt for plain, unsweetened varieties to control the overall sweetness of your treats. Use a one-to-one ratio when replacing butter with Greek yogurt in your recipe. For example, if a recipe calls for 1 cup of butter, replace it with 1 cup of Greek yogurt. Keep in mind that Greek yogurt may impart a slightly tangy flavor to your cookies, which can complement sweeter ingredients like chocolate or dried fruit.

Tips: When baking with Greek yogurt, be aware that it has a higher water content than butter, which can affect the texture of your cookies. To prevent your cookies from becoming too soft or cake-like, consider reducing the amount of added liquid in your recipe or increasing the baking time slightly. Experiment with different recipes and flavor combinations to find the perfect balance of tanginess and sweetness for your Greek yogurt-infused treats.

4. Pumpkin Puree

Nutritional Facts: Pumpkin puree is a flavorful and nutritious alternative to butter in cookie recipes, particularly during the fall season. Made from cooked and mashed pumpkin, pumpkin puree adds moisture, natural sweetness, and a hint of seasonal spice to the dough, resulting in soft, flavorful cookies that are perfect for autumn gatherings. It is also low in calories and rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it a healthier option for those looking to indulge in their favorite fall treats.

Recipes: To use pumpkin puree as a butter replacement in cookies, aim for a one-to-one ratio and adjust the amount of added sugar and spices to suit your taste preferences. For example, if a recipe calls for 1 cup of butter, replace it with 1 cup of pumpkin puree. Keep in mind that pumpkin puree has a softer texture than butter, so you may need to adjust the amount of flour or other dry ingredients in your recipe to achieve the desired consistency.

Tips: When baking with pumpkin puree, be aware that it has a naturally high moisture content, which can affect the texture of your cookies. To prevent your cookies from becoming too soft or mushy, consider reducing the amount of added liquid in your recipe or increasing the baking time slightly. Experiment with different recipes and flavor combinations to find the perfect match for your pumpkin-infused treats. Additionally, store any leftover cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness and prevent them from becoming too soggy.

5. Avocado

Nutritional Facts: Avocado is a surprising yet nutritious substitute for butter in cookie recipes. Rich in healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals, avocados offer numerous health benefits, including improved heart health and digestion. They also contain antioxidants and fiber, which can help regulate blood sugar levels and promote satiety. When mashed, avocados have a creamy texture that adds moisture and richness to cookies without the need for additional fats.

Recipes: To use avocado as a butter alternative in cookies, simply mash it until smooth and substitute it in equal measure for the butter called for in your recipe. For example, if a recipe calls for 1 cup of butter, replace it with 1 cup of mashed avocado. Keep in mind that avocado has a mild flavor that pairs well with a variety of ingredients, including chocolate, nuts, and spices.

Tips: When baking with avocado, be aware that its green color may tint the finished cookies slightly. However, this will not affect the taste or texture of the cookies. Experiment with different recipes and flavor combinations to find the perfect match for your avocado-infused treats. Additionally, store any leftover cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness and prevent the avocado from oxidizing.

6. Nut Butters

Nutritional Facts: Nut butters, such as almond butter, peanut butter, or cashew butter, offer a rich and flavorful substitute for butter in cookie recipes. Packed with healthy fats, protein, and essential nutrients, nut butters add depth of flavor and a satisfying texture to the dough. They are also a good source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them a nutritious option for those looking to add extra nutrients to their baked goods.

Recipes: To use nut butter as a butter alternative in cookies, opt for natural varieties without added sugars or oils to control the overall sweetness and texture of your treats. Use a one-to-one ratio when replacing butter with nut butter in your recipe. For example, if a recipe calls for 1 cup of butter, replace it with 1 cup of nut butter. Keep in mind that different nut butters will impart their own distinct flavor to your cookies, so choose one that complements the other ingredients in your recipe.

Tips: When baking with nut butter, be aware that it has a thicker consistency than butter, which can affect the texture of your cookies. To prevent your cookies from becoming too dense or dry, consider adjusting the amount of flour or other dry ingredients in your recipe to achieve the desired consistency. Experiment with different nut butter varieties and flavor combinations to find the perfect match for your cookies.

7. Olive Oil

Nutritional Facts: Olive oil, a staple in Mediterranean cuisine, can also serve as a healthy substitute for butter in cookie recipes. With its fruity aroma and smooth texture, olive oil adds richness and moisture to the dough while imparting a subtle savory note to the finished treats. It is also rich in monounsaturated fats, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds, making it a heart-healthy option for those looking to reduce their risk of chronic diseases.

Recipes: To use olive oil as a butter replacement in cookies, opt for extra virgin or light olive oil for the best flavor profile. Use a three-quarters to one ratio when replacing butter with olive oil in your recipe, as olive oil has a lower fat content than butter. Be mindful of the olive oil’s flavor intensity, as it can vary depending on its quality and origin. Experiment with different olive oil varieties and flavor combinations to find the perfect match for your cookies.

Tips: When baking with olive oil, be aware that it has a distinct flavor that can affect the taste of your cookies. To prevent your cookies from tasting too savory or overpowering, consider using a mild or light olive oil with a more neutral flavor profile. Additionally, be mindful of the olive oil’s smoke point, as baking at high temperatures can cause it to burn and impart a bitter taste to your treats. Experiment with different recipes and baking techniques to find the perfect balance of flavor and texture for your olive oil-infused cookies.

8. Mashed Banana

Nutritional Facts: Mashed banana is another fruit-based substitute for butter in cookies that adds moisture and a hint of tropical flavor to your treats. Bananas are naturally sweet and contain essential nutrients like potassium, vitamin B6, and vitamin C. They are also low in calories and fat, making them a healthier alternative to butter in baked goods.

Recipes: To use mashed banana as a butter replacement in cookies, substitute it in equal measure for the butter called for in your recipe. For example, if a recipe calls for 1 cup of butter, replace it with 1 cup of mashed banana. Keep in mind that bananas have a stronger flavor profile than applesauce, so adjust the amount to suit your personal taste preferences. Consider adding extra spices or flavorings to complement the tropical flavor of the banana.

Tips: When using mashed banana in cookies, be aware that it may impart a slightly different texture and flavor compared to butter. Experiment with different ripeness levels of bananas to achieve the desired taste and consistency in your cookies. Additionally, consider adding chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit to enhance the texture and flavor of your treats.