Coconut oil has become a kitchen staple for many people. It’s an all-purpose cooking oil and can be used in baking, as a spread on toast, or even as a moisturizer. However, it is not always easy to find or suitable for every recipe.
Whether you are cooking, baking, or maybe learning more about your beauty products, there are plenty of substitutes if you can’t have or use coconut oil. In this post, we will be discussing the best coconut oil substitutes for various different uses.
It doesn’t matter if you have a coconut allergy, a nut allergy, are out of coconut oil, or are just wanting to use something in a recipe in its place, there are plenty of other options to use.
What is coconut oil?
Coconut oil is a popular cooking oil that is derived from the meat of mature coconuts. It has a high smoke point, which makes it ideal for sauteing and stir-frying. Coconut oil is also popular in baking, as it can add a delicious tropical flavor to recipes.
If you have a recipe that calls for coconut and do not have any on hand, there are many substitutes you can use. Likewise, if you have an allergy to coconut there are many easy swaps for coconut oil in cooking.
Let’s take a closer look.
Substitute for Coconut Oil in Recipes
Here is a list of 10 substitutes for coconut oil in recipes:
Butter – Butter is a classic cooking staple and can be used in place of coconut oil in most recipes. Simply melt the butter before using it in your recipe. Butter is one of the most popular substitutes for coconut oil when it comes to baking and cooking. It is rich in fat, which makes it great for adding moisture and flavor to cakes and other baked goods. You should note that butter has a higher water content than oil so the texture of your recipe may change slightly depending on what you’re using it for. It also creates a flaky crust in pie doughs and other pastries. If you are looking for an alternative to coconut oil that is always readily available, butter is one of the best substitutes!
Olive Oil – Olive oil is a healthy alternative to coconut oil and can be used in many recipes. It has a lower smoke point than coconut oil, so it’s best to use it in recipes that do not require high heat. It has a milder but distinct flavor than coconut oils but still adds richness and depth of flavor to dishes like soups or stews. Olive oil also has health benefits such as being rich in healthy fats and antioxidants which makes it a great choice when looking for an alternative to coconut oil. Since extra virgin olive oil has a similar consistency it is a good replacement when swapping coconut oil in a recipe.
Vegetable Oil – Vegetable oil is a common cooking oil and can be used in place of coconut oil. It has a neutral flavor, so it will not alter the taste of your recipe. Canola oil, sunflower oil, safflower oil, grapeseed oil, corn oil—all of these are great options when you need something similar to coconut oil but don’t have any on hand. We will discuss a few of these in separate points later They are all neutral-flavored oils that can be used for sautéing vegetables or frying foods without overpowering the dish with intense flavors like coconut can do sometimes.
Canola Oil – Canola oil is another neutral-flavored cooking oil that can be used as a substitute for coconut oil. It has a higher smoke point, making it ideal for cooking at high temperatures.
Ghee – Ghee is a clarified butter that has had its milk solids removed. It can be used in place of coconut oil as a healthy cooking fat. Unlike coconut oil, ghee is stable at high temperatures and won’t burn. It has a nutty flavor that pairs well with many dishes, including curries and rice. Ghee is also rich in essential fatty acids and vitamins A, E, and K. While it has not been studied as extensively as coconut oil, ghee may offer some potential health benefits such as improving digestion and reducing inflammation and makes a good substitute if out of coconut oil.
Lard – Lard is an animal fat that has been rendered and can be used in place of coconut oil. It is relatively low in saturated fat and is rich in monounsaturated fats, which have been linked to improved heart health. However, it does have a higher level of cholesterol than coconut oil, so some people may want to limit their consumption. Lard has a mild flavor and can be used for baking and sautéing. Because it has a lower smoke point than coconut oil, it is best used at low or moderate temperatures when cooking with lard.
Bacon Fat – Bacon fat, also known as pork fat, is a popular cooking fat that can be used in place of coconut oil. It has a strong, smoky flavor and is high in saturated fats, which means it holds up well to higher temperatures. Bacon fat can be used for sautéing vegetables or baking. Because of its strong flavor, it isn’t suitable for all recipes and should only be used sparingly. If you’re looking to get the benefits of coconut oil without the taste, consider avocado oil instead. If you keep your bacon fat from other recipes, this is a great way to reduce food waste and lower your bottom line at the grocery stores.
Margarine – Margarine is a type of vegetable-based spread that can be used in place of butter or coconut oil. It is lower in saturated fat than both butter and coconut oil, making it a healthier option.
Shortening – Shortening is a type of solid fat that is popular in baking. It can be used in place of coconut oil to create flakier pastries and desserts.
Applesauce – Applesauce can be used in place of coconut oil to add moisture to baked goods. It is best to use unsweetened applesauce to avoid adding extra sugar to your recipe. It has the same binding and moistening properties as coconut oil, but with fewer calories and no saturated fat. Applesauce also adds a subtle sweetness to baked goods that coconut oil does not provide. Keep in mind, however, that applesauce does not have a high smoke point like coconut oil does and should only be used for baking recipes at moderate temperatures.
Hazelnut oil – Hazelnut oil is a flavorful cooking oil that can be used as a great substitute in place of coconut oil. It has a light and nutty flavor, and it’s rich in monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce cholesterol levels. Hazelnut oil has a high smoking point and is higher when compared to coconut oil, so it can be used for searing, sautéing, and grilling. When using hazelnut oil instead of coconut oil, use half the amount as it is more intense in flavor.
Hempseed oil – Hemp seed oil is a great substitute for coconut oil in cooking. It has a mild, nutty flavor and is high in polyunsaturated fats, which can help reduce inflammation. Hempseed oil has a moderately low smoke point, so it’s best used for low-medium heat cooking. When using hempseed oil instead of coconut oil, use half the amount as it has more intense flavor notes.
Safflower oil – Safflower oil is an excellent substitute for coconut oil in cooking. It has a mild, nutty flavor and is high in polyunsaturated fats, which can help reduce inflammation. Safflower oil has a low smoke point, so it’s best used for low-heat cooking. When using safflower oil instead of coconut oil, it’s a good option, but it’s important to know that you should use less as it has an intense flavor. Start with a small amount and work your way up as necessary.
Almond oil – Almond oil is light and airy and also has a nutty flavor. It’s a distinct flavor that may add a nutty essence to your dish. Keep that in mind when choosing that to use as a great option for a coconut oil swap.
Beef tallow – Beef tallow can be used as a replacement for coconut oil. It has a higher smoke point than coconut oil, so it is better suited for high-heat cooking such as sautéing or frying. It also adds a delicious savory flavor to dishes that coconut oil cannot replicate. However, beef tallow is very fatty and should be used in moderation when replacing coconut oil.
Substitutes for Coconut Oil in Beauty Products
Coconut oil is a popular ingredient in many beauty products, as it is known for its hydrating and nourishing properties. If you have an allergy to coconut, there are many substitutes you can use in place of coconut oil.
Here is a list of 10 substitutes for coconut oil in beauty products:
Shea Butter – Shea butter is a popular natural ingredient that is known for its moisturizing properties. It can be used in place of coconut oil to hydrate and nourish the skin.
Cocoa Butter – Cocoa butter is another natural ingredient that is often used in beauty products. It has a rich, creamy texture that makes it ideal for use in body lotions and other moisturizing products.
Olive Oil – Olive oil is a rich, natural oil that can be used to moisturize the skin. It can also be used in place of coconut oil in hair masks and treatments.
Avocado Oil – Avocado oil is another natural oil that is often used in beauty products. It is rich in fatty acids, which makes it ideal for use in moisturizing products.
Grapeseed Oil – Grapeseed oil is a light, natural oil that is often used in beauty products. It is known for its anti-aging properties and can be used to help improve the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
Sweet Almond Oil – Sweet almond oil is a light, natural oil that is rich in vitamin E. It can be used to moisturize the skin and hair and is also known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
Jojoba oil – Jojoba oil is a light, natural oil that closely resembles the sebum produced by the skin. It can be used to moisturize the skin and is also known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
Argan Oil – Argan oil is a light, natural oil that is rich in vitamin E. It can be used to moisturize the skin and hair and is also known for its anti-aging properties.
Rosehip Oil – Rosehip oil is a light, natural oil that is rich in antioxidants. It can be used to moisturize the skin and is also known for its anti-aging properties.
There are many substitutes you can use in place of coconut oil in beauty products. Choose an oil that suits your needs and preferences.
Questions About Replacing Coconut Oil
Still have some questions on using a coconut oil replacement? We have answers.
Is coconut oil and butter interchangeable for baking?
While coconut oil and butter can both be used for baking, they are not interchangeable. Coconut oil has a lower melting point than butter, so it will not hold its shape as well in baked goods. Butter also has a higher fat content than coconut oil, so it will produce richer-tasting results.
Can I substitute butter for coconut oil in a cookie recipe?
Yes, you can substitute butter for coconut oil in a cookie recipe. However, keep in mind that butter has a higher fat content than coconut oil, so your cookies will be richer and more delicious.