So, the festivities are around the corner, and decadent cookies, cakes, buns, and more are on your to-do list. You’ve invited friends over, and while you’re putting your mittens on to get started with your baking sojourn, a sudden realization hits you hard. Thankfully, several vegan butter brands are present in the grocery aisle, which has made the lives of vegans much easier, without letting them skip the joy of enjoying the delicious bakery items of their choice. You’re completely vegan now!
Whether melted over a sumptuous piece of toast to drizzling pies, cupcakes, cookies, or muffins with a savory flavor of their own, these vegan alternatives can ratchet up your goodies in no time. Does that mean you need to part ways with your favorite baked goodies since butter seems to be an indispensable part of these baked items? Well, not anymore!
Since various butter options for vegans are present, choosing one that tastes the best out of all might seem like a pie in the sky. Thus, we have dug around to pull out the gems from the clutter to help you make the best-baked items of all time. But before we delve into the popular brands of vegan butter that work not just like a doppelganger but as a real one, let’s see what exactly we mean by vegan butter spread!
Vegan Butter – What is it?
Also referred to as “plant-based butter,” vegan butter is a good alternative to traditional butter products. Prepared by combining water with plant-derived oil, they bring the same flavor and texture to the table as any dairy-based butter would.
However, all dairy-free butter may not be a vegan product because it might contain dairy-derived ingredients such as casein. Hence, always check the label before grabbing any of the vegan butter products from stores.
In between the years 2023 and 2033, the market of vegan butter is expected to reach $4.8 billion with a projected CAGR of 5%. With growing demand from consumers, mainly for healthier options, alternatives to vegan butter continues for the evolving texture, performance, texture and the selection of ingredients.
Plant-based dairy products might be associated with heavy-hitting U.S. brands, but the trend has worldwide appeal. In addition to the U.S., sales of plant-based milk alternatives are skyrocketing in global markets like the U.K., Germany, and Spain.
As milk substitutes gain shelf space in stores, they are growing globally at a rate that’s 3% higher than last year. The NielsenIQ Global Snapshot report shows that this trend hasn’t been affected by current industry challenges, either.
Overview – Comparative Analysis
| Brand | Base Ingredients | Calories per tbsp | Flavors Available | Best to be Used In |
| Earth Balance | Palm (non-sustainable), canola, and soybean oils | 100 cal | Soy-free, Organic and European Style along with an Unsalted Version | Spreading and Baking |
| Milkadamia | Macadamia Oil Blend (Coconut Oil, Canola Oil, Macadamia Nut Oil) | 100 cal | Available only in the Salted variety. | Spreading and Baking |
| Miyoko’s Creamery | Organic Coconut Oil, Organic Cultured Cashew Milk (Filtered Water, Organic Cashews). | 90 cal | Coconut, Palm (Rainforest Alliance Certified), Sunflower and Canola oils. | Spreading |
| Forager Project | Coconut Oil, Sunflower Oil, Cashews, Fermented Extract, Water | 100 Cal | Forager Plant Butter | Baking |
| Smart Balance | Vegetable oil blend (canola oil, palm oil), water. | 90 cal | Smart Balance Omega-3, Smart Balance Low Sodium, Smart Balance Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Smart Balance Original and Smart Balance Organic varieties. | Spreading |
| Country Crock | Palm Oil, Faba Bean Protein, Soy Lecithin. | 100 cal | Olive oil and Almond oil varieties | Baking |
| WayFare | WayFare Dairy Free Base, Coconut Oil, Natural Flavor, Sea Salt, | 60 cal | WayFare Butter, Dairy Free, Salted & Whipped. | Spreading |
| Melt Organic | Coconut, Palm (Rainforest Alliance Certified), Sunflower and Canola oils. | 80 cal | Available in probiotic formula along with baking sticks (salted and unsalted) | Spreading |
| Kite Hill | Original Spread. View, Vegan Spread. View, Baking Sticks. View and Light Spread. View, Original Spray. View. | 90 cal | European Style Butter Alternative | Spreading and Baking |
| Upfield | Palm kernel oil, palm oil, sunflower oil, pea protein, sunflower lecithin | 60 tbsp | Wild Creamery European-Style Butter | Spreading |
| Wildbrine | Coconut oil, Sunflower oil, Cashews | 80 cal | Wild Creamery European- Style Butter | Baking |
| Flora | Palm kernel and palm oil, sunflower oil, pea protein, sunflower lecithin. | 100 cal | Available in Salted and Unsalted versions | Spreading and Baking |
| LeGrand | Coconut oil, Filtered water, Potatoes, Carrots, Sunflower Oil, Sea salt, Sunflower Lecithin, Live active cultures. | 60 cal | Sea Salt Vegan Butter and Unsalted Vegan Butter | Spreading and Baking |
| Naturli | Shea butter oil, water, coconut oil, rapeseed oil, almonds | 100 cal | Naturli’ Organic Vegan Spreadable, Naturli’ Vegan Block for Professionals. | Spreading and Baking |
| Califia | Coconut Oil, Avocado Oil, Cashews, Tigernut Paste | 90 cal | Sea Salt with Avocado Oil and Sea Salt with Olive Oil variety | Spreading |
Top 15 Brands for Vegan Butter
So when you think of making your favorite bakery item, give a sneak peek at one of these top vegan butter brands that we have rounded up for you:-
1. Earth Balance
A delectable, craveable option, Earth Balance is one of the best vegan butter brands exclusively for the vegan community present across the globe. With assertive flavor and saltiness, the company rolls out Earth Balance vegan butter sticks that work wonders in baking. They also have several kinds of plant-based butter, including a soy-free buttery spread for vegans out there. Not only this, but Earth Balance has also come up with an unsalted version of vegan butter.
Their butter is certified kosher, gluten-free, and a non-GMO (Genetically Modified Organisms) product that contains only 3.5 gm of saturated fat per serving.
With its rich, buttery taste, the company has made a delicious one-to-one swap for dairy-based butter, thus, making a good alternative for vegans who wish to lay their hands on making pie crusts and tender cookies.
Base Ingredients: Palm (non-sustainable), canola, and soybean oils
Calories per Tbsp: 100 cal
Pros:
- Low in saturated fat.
- Free of dairy, lactose, casein, and whey.
- Free of trans fat, gluten, and cholesterol
Cons:
- Uses unsustainable palm oil
- Uses canola oil
Best for: Spreading and Baking
Accessibility: Available in various grocery stores and on the Amazon website
Flavor: I found that Earth Balance had a rich, buttery taste, similar to the traditional butter along with subtle creaminess.
For Spreading: I would recommend making use of the butter for spreading purposes. With a buttery flavor, it was not over-the-top or artificial. I was amazed to see how pretty well it spreads on any item, especially toasts.
For Baking: It came out as my favorite in baking. The best part about it is that the butter softens like regular butter or margarine. It also does not liquefy at room temperature.
Varieties Available: Available in Soy-free, Organic and European Style along with an Unsalted Version
Price: $4.29 per 15 oz tub, and $4.49 per 1 lb of sticks
2. Milkadamia
In the list of vegan butter brands, Milkadamia is a much sought-after option for vegans. With its Salted Buttery Spread, the company has made the lives of vegans easier and more delicious. A palm-oil-free and dairy-free option, this butter is prepared with milkadamia nut oils that add to its taste and luscious texture. The butter possesses a mild and not much of a nutty flavor and therefore adds a subtle charm and exoticism to the baked goods they get used to without much ado.
A delectable option, the salted buttery spread paves the way to try and uncover the secret sumptuous world of plant-based butter products in a whole new way. Creating vegan magic, Milkadamia Salted Buttery Spread can help you create artful, delicious, and easy baked goods that are surely going to make your palate crave more.
Base Ingredients: Macadamia Oil Blend (Coconut Oil, Canola Oil, Macadamia Nut Oil)
Calories per Tbsp: 100 cal
Pros:
- Palm oil free
- Cashew free
Cons:
- Possesses a strong fruity flavor
Best for: Spreading and Baking
Accessibility: It can be bought from a local store or through Amazon.
Flavor: I liked its flavor which was not overtly artificial, and had a balanced taste.
For Spreading: I found it perfect for spreading. It possesses a high quality and spreadable texture.
For Baking: Although its label talks about it as a good spread option, I find it to be one of the best vegan butters for baking. It lends a good, chewy texture.
Varieties Available: Available only in the Salted variety.
Price: $4.99 for a 9 oz tub.
3. Miyoko’s Creamery
Made from plant-based ingredients, Miyoko’s Creamery is another renowned vegan butter brand for baking. Though the company has come up with different butter options, the one that is most prized is Miyoko’s European Style Cultured Vegan Butter. With a unique creamy taste, this butter is extremely versatile in its entirety. From being used as a spread to playing an indispensable part in baking, Miyoko’s exotic butter has come a long way.
Miyoko’s vegan butter ingredients include organic cashew milk and sea salt as its base. The product is also devoid of palm oil or lactose. A chef-trusted option, this butter can turn your cookies, cakes, and muffins into a delectable item.
The best part about this creamy delight is that it melts or spreads easily and adds richness to the baked goods. Using it is also easy as it just needs to be used in equal quantities in place of any other traditional butter variant.
Base Ingredients: Organic Coconut Oil, Organic Cultured Cashew Milk (Filtered Water, Organic Cashews).
Calories per Tbsp: 90 cal
Pros:
- Soy-free
- Gluten-free
- Palm oil free
- Non-GMO (Genetically Modified Organism)
Cons:
- Contains nuts, which some people might find allergic.
Best for: Spreading
Accessibility: Available at mainstream grocery, health food stores and the Amazon website.
Flavor: Personally, I feel that the butter had a great flavor and tanginess. Though it contains cashew and coconut, none of it lends much flavor to the item.
For Spreading: I used it as a spread and found it to be a good addition. It had a great texture and flavor.
For Baking: For me, this butter can make a good addition to bakery items but not in every item like pie crust or cookie. However, it can be used for frosting as it does not melt at room temperature.
Varieties Available: Available varieties include Salted Oat Milk Butter, Salted Plant Milk Butter and Unsalted Plant – Milk Butter
Price: $5.99 per 8 oz block.
4. Forager Project
One of the most sought-after vegan butter brands, Forager Project is one of the kinds that has come up with its delectable organic vegan butter named Plant Butter in recent times. Prepared from coconut and sunflower oil, the company makes organic, dairy-free butter, ideal for the vegan community. Using nature’s finest ingredients, Forager Project makes plant-based butter in its own creamery while taking into consideration the environmental impact apart from human health.
Their buttery spread has garnered much attention over time and is considered one of the finest options to use in place of traditional butter products for baking and even spreading.
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With its adequate amount of saltiness and creaminess, the butter puts a decadent, mind-boggling result at the end. Forager’s milky, slightly sweet flavored butter is sure to drizzle your baked goodies with its distinctive flavor.
Base Ingredients: Coconut Oil, Sunflower Oil, Cashews, Fermented Extract, Water.
Calories per Tbsp: 100 Cal
Pros:
- Gluten-free
- Soy-free
- Palm oil free
Cons:
- Contains nuts, so can be an allergen for some people.
- Bit sweeter than other vegan butter brands
Best for: Better for baking
Accessibility: Can be purchased from local stores and from Amazon.
Flavor: I found it to be flavorful and wholesome. The taste is good except the fact that it is somewhat sweeter than many of its counterparts.
For Spreading: I personally feel that this butter is not suitable for spreading purposes, and nor does it possess the taste of a regular butter.
For Baking: It is a bit better if you use it in baking. However, I would not recommend the same to anyone. Also, the butter separates when softened and forms two separate layers that hamper its original texture.
Varieties Available: Forager plant Butter form.
Price: $5.99 per 10 oz tub.
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5. Smart Balance
Smart Balance is among the prominent brands of vegan butter that have come up with Smart Balance Original Butter, known for its remarkable taste and texture. A margarine-kind butter substitute, this item is spreadable and can be used in a wide variety of baked goodies, especially warm and decadent muffins. Butter is also a great addition to other items such as toast and different varieties of bread.
With fewer calories, this company’s butter is devoid of hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oils and has no trans-fat, making it a healthy alternative to many of its counterparts.
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So whether you’re up for making some flaky biscuits or wish to lay your hands on cookies, Smart Balance Original Butter can ratchet up any item of your choice instantly. They also work nicely as a smearing option over different consumables.
Base Ingredients: Vegetable oil blend (canola oil, palm oil), water.
Calories per Tbsp: 90 cal
Pros:
- Free of dairy
- Gluten-free
- No hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oils.
- Contains 0 trans fat.
- Supports healthy cholesterol.
Cons:
- Not a good imitation of butter.
Best for: Spreading
Accessibility: Available in local grocery stores and on Amazon
Flavor: The flavor of this alternative was like any other average butter. I liked its indulgent and rich flavor profile.
For Spreading: I found this butter to be a great spread. It had a nice consistency that is easily spreadable.
For Baking: The butter is not suitable for baking or even cooking purposes. This butter has a lower fat content, which does not make them suitable for any other use apart from being used as a spread. So, I will not recommend it to be used in baking.
Varieties Available: Available in Smart Balance Omega-3, Smart Balance Low Sodium, Smart Balance Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Smart Balance Original and Smart Balance Organic varieties.
Price: Starts from $44.99
6. Country Crock
Amongst the best vegan butter brands, Country Crock is yet another option for vegans out there. Having plunged into making plant-based vegan butter wholeheartedly, the company launched around seven vegan butter varieties, the most renowned being Country Crock Plant Butter (olive oil and avocado oil variants) over time. Gluten and nut-free, this butter is amongst the saltiest options from the bunch of alternatives available in the market.
The humble item is a great option to use in baking and even spreading on toast or pancakes as it comes in both stick and spread forms that can be bought per one’s liking. Being a long-time butter substitute brand, the company knows the intricacies of vegan butter and the taste and texture required to emulate the traditional butter options.
Base Ingredients: Palm Oil, Faba Bean Protein, Soy Lecithin.
Calories per Tbsp: 100 cal
Pros:
- Gluten-free
- Nut-free
Cons:
- Contains palm oil
Best for: Baking
Accessibility: Available at some mainstream stores and on Amazon
Flavor: I’d say that it is more salty than many of the other vegan butter brands. Its flavor is mild.
For Spreading: Personally, I do not feel that it is apt for spreading onto toasts or pie crusts due to its consistency.
For Baking: This butter does not liquefy at room temperature. As such, I’d recommend it for baking purposes.
Varieties Available: Available in Olive oil and Almond oil varieties. The butter is even available as a spread in an olive oil and almond oil formula.
Price: $3.99 per 1 lb of sticks
7. WayFare Foods
Amongst the list of vegan butter brands, WayFare Foods is no less than its counterparts. With its delicious WayFare Dairy-Free Salted and Whipped Butter, the company has made its mark in the vegan community. A nut-free option, the product is prepared from a concoction of coconut oil and butter beans. Melty and spreadable, this butter makes for an ideal alternative to traditional butter in baking and works especially well as a topping for pancakes.
Gluten, nut and soy-free, WayFare butter is also non-GMO and certified kosher product, ideal for vegans. The butter does not even contain palm oil in it. Free of hydrogenated oil, the butter contains less fat, calories, and sodium. A perfect match for bakery items, the butter can make you go gaga with its luscious taste and texture.
Base Ingredients: WayFare Dairy Free Base, Coconut Oil, Natural Flavor, Sea Salt.
Calories per Tbsp: 60 cal
Pros:
- Dairy-free
- Certified Kosher
- Nut-free
- Soy-free
- Palm oil free
Cons:
- Extra Coconut oil flavor may alter the taste.
Best for: Spreading
Accessibility: Available at natural food stores and on Amazon.
Flavor: I find the flavor extremely good and apt to be used in any dish of my choice. It was smooth and buttery overall.
For Spreading: I would recommend it for spreading on different dishes as it spreads easily all over.
For Baking: It is good for making muffins, cookies and for other baking purposes.
Varieties Available: WayFare Butter, Dairy Free, Salted & Whipped.
Price: $5.99 per 12 oz tub
8. Melt Organic
Melt Organic is among the vegan butter brands for baking that have made a noteworthy contribution to the culinary world. The company has come up with Melt Organic Vegan Butter Sticks that are made from blending fruit and plant-based oils and possess just the right flavor that goes well with a wide range of recipes.
The product also uses non-GMO coconut oil. They are also cholesterol, allergen-free and do not contain gluten or soy. These butter sticks can be used in almost the same way as a traditional stick and are a great accompaniment if you are baking your favorite goodies as it comes both in an unsalted and salted version.
As such, this versatile item works well with vegan dessert recipes. A popular topping in town, Melt Organic Vegan Butter Sticks is known to add richness and moisture to baked goods.
Base Ingredients: Coconut, Palm (Rainforest Alliance Certified), Sunflower and Canola Oils.
Calories per Tbsp: 80 cal
Pros:
- Gluten-free
- Non-GMO
Cons:
- Contains palm oil
Best for: Spreading
Accessibility: It is available at many mainstream grocery stores.
Flavor: I felt that this butter had a noticeable flavor but is less salty than some of its counterparts.
For Spreading: It softens more easily than other vegan butter options and therefore will melt very quickly on items of your choice. I liked its overall consistency.
For Baking: I would not recommend this butter for frosting at all, since it liquefies quickly at room temperature. It does not possess the ability to hold air when beaten, so its use in baking must be as limited as possible.
Varieties Available: Available in probiotic formula along with baking sticks (salted and unsalted)
Price: $4.49 per 13 oz tub
9. Kite Hill
Kite Hill is one of the best vegan butter brands recognized across the globe. A renowned company, it has come up with Kite Hill Plant-Based Butter that has a luscious and rich flavor. This European-styled butter which is cultured has high-fat content and possesses less moisture than traditional butter. Although blessed with a thick, indulgent texture, the vegan butter does not add much to the calories, making it a good alternative to the standard butter variants.
A palm-oil-free option, Kite Hill’s butter is also good if you’re up for a baking marathon. A nutty and tangy option, this sumptuous substitute will give you savory experiences like never before. One of the best parts about Kite Hill Plant-Based Butter is that it does not contain any artificial flavors or preservatives and is also non-GMO verified.
Base Ingredients: Safflower oil, almond milk, coconut oil
Calories per Tbsp: 90 cal
Pros:
- No artificial color or preservative
- Gluten-free
- Kosher
- Non-GMO
Cons:
- High fat content
Best for: Spreading and Baking
Accessibility: Available at different food stores and on the Amazon website.
Flavor: It has a rich and creamy flavor which I found to be an apt addition to many vegan delights.
For Spreading: I found it to be good for spreading. It was delicious and worked as a good topping for various items.
For Baking: You can use it in baking since it melts exactly like butter and therefore, can add a distinct charm to the dishes as I noticed in my cookies.
Varieties Available: European Style Butter Alternative
Price: $6.19 per 8 oz
10. Upfield
In the list of vegan butter brands, Upfield has been around for a long time now with its product cum brand named “I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter” successfully doing the rounds in the market. A dairy-free alternative to traditional butter, this variety is supremely convenient to spread and carries an appetizing appearance to itself that is hard to overlook. Low in calories, this butter makes for an ideal accompaniment to baked goods, especially muffins.
Made with a wide range of plant oils, this vegan option contains seventy percent less saturated fat than standard butter. Gluten, nut, and coconut-free, this member of the buttery spread club possess 2 gm of saturated fat per tbsp, which is less than any other butter brand existing for vegans.
However, one can’t help but notice that this plant-based butter alternative does contain palm oil in it that can be a red flag for many vegans.
Base Ingredients: Soybean oil, Palm oil
Calories per Tbsp: 60 tbsp
Pros:
- Gluten-free
- Nuts and coconut-free
Cons:
- Contains soy, which might cause allergies in some people.
- Contains palm oil
Best for: Spreading
Accessibility: Available on Amazon.
Flavor: It had a delicious and creamy taste along with a delectable flavor. I really liked the buttery aftertaste.
For Spreading: I found this butter exceptionally good for spreading that eventually lends an irresistibly creamy taste.
For Baking: Their vegan butter sticks are good for baking and can be used as one-to-one substitute for butter.
Varieties Available: Original Spread View, Vegan Spread. View, Baking Sticks. View and Light Spread. View, Original Spray. View.
Price: $4.29 (13 oz. tub) and $3.19 (15 oz. tub)
11. Wildbrine
Amongst vegan butter brands for baking, Wildbrine provides popular butter alternatives for all vegans. The company’s vegan butter, named the Wild Creamery European – Style Butter is one of its kind and has blessed many baked goodies with its mere presence. Naturally fermented, this substitute adds a hint of richness to the items they are used in without much ado. Wildly delicious, this alternative uses coconut and sunflower oil that brings out the best in the butter.
This European Style Butter is cultured, organic, and full of natural flavors. A blend of cashews and coconut oil makes for the tangiest buttercream frosting. Being one of the funkiest plant-butter substitutes, it is renowned far and wide and gets precisely used in bakery items across cultures.
Base Ingredients: Coconut oil, Sunflower oil, Cashews
Calories per Tbsp: 80 cal
Pros:
- Gluten-free
Cons:
- Contains cashews which might be an allergen for some people.
Best for: Baking
Accessibility: Available at local stores and on the Amazon website
Flavor: The butter is extremely flavorful and has an enticing taste that can cater to any palate. I found the flavor pleasing and satisfying.
For Spreading: I would not ask you to use it as a spread due to its texture and consistency.
For Baking: I would recommend you to use it in your baking endeavors since it adds a rich texture to baked goodies.
Varieties Available: Wild Creamery European-style Butter
Price: $4.86 per 12 oz
12. Flora
One of the top vegan butter brands Flora has a lot of stars added to its badge. The brand’s Flora Plant-Based Butter has been every vegan’s favorite item and comes in both salted and unsalted versions. A non-GMO product, the butter gets kudos for being a versatile item that can drizzle any baked good with its richness.
A nut-free alternative, this vegan butter is somewhat similar to standard butter in its firmness and thickness. Flora butter is also free of any artificial preservatives and flavors. Made from plant-based oils, the product is gluten and soy-free, making it an ideal option for vegans and those with certain types of allergies.
With its scrumptious taste and texture, the butter can be used in various bakery items, especially vegan blueberry muffins. They can also be used to prepare decadent sauces.
Base Ingredients: Palm kernel and palm oil, sunflower oil, pea protein, sunflower lecithin.
Calories per Tbsp: 100 cal
Pros:
- Non-GMO
Cons:
- Contains palm kernel and palm oil
Best for: Spreading and Baking
Accessibility: Available in local stores and on Amazon.
Flavor: I found its flavor similar to that of margarine. So if you like margarine like taste, then Flora can be your best bet.
For Spreading: The butter worked well as a spread. It had a rich texture and consistency, which I found to be of great quality.
For Baking: For me, Flora butter proved to be a good replacement for butter in baked items. I loved the texture rendered afterwards.
Varieties Available: Available in Salted and Unsalted versions
Price: Starts from $3.49
13. LeGrand
One of the most popular brands of vegan butter is LeGrand, which has been serving the vegan family for quite some time now. The company has some of the most prominent butter varieties – Sea Salt Vegan Butter and Unsalted Vegan Butter. This delectable butter substitute has a unique taste and flavor that can level any baked item. Prepared with a wide range of oil and active cultures, LeGrand’s butter can help you make toothsome dishes in no time.
A plant-based item, this butter alternative has won millions of hearts since its advent in the vegan market. With a delicate garden aroma, their addition to different bakery items is always a plus. Creamy and smooth, both variants of vegan butter can help you go gaga and ratchet up any dish you wish to use them in.
Base Ingredients: Coconut oil, Filtered water, Potatoes, Carrots, Sunflower Oil, Sea salt, Sunflower Lecithin, Live active cultures.
Calories per Tbsp: 60 cal
Pros:
- Gluten-free
- Dairy-free
Cons:
- Softens easily and quickly.
Best for: Spreading and Baking
Accessibility: Available on Amazon and at local stores.
Flavor: It has a rich flavor and that makes it one of the most prized vegan butter brands all around.
For Spreading: I would say that this butter is extremely good to be used as a spread in any dish of your liking.
For Baking: You can use this butter for baking as well since it lends a rich texture to the baked goodies.
Varieties Available: Sea Salt Vegan Butter and Unsalted Vegan Butter
Price: Starts from $6.99
14. Naturli
One of the most prized non-dairy vegan butter brands is Naturli, which has rolled out its Organic Vegan Block. Made with rapeseed and coconut oil, this butter is palm-oil free and does not contain hydrogenated oils or trans-fat. Uniquely toothsome, they can be used in an array of baked goods and can even be added to different veggies and sauces. Free of gluten and soy, this butter alternative is also a great source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber.
A cholesterol-free item, it is low in calories and therefore makes a good addition to a vegan diet. Possessing a mild taste of almonds, these butter substitutes are extremely sumptuous and appetizing. Available in tubs or blocks, Naturali’s butter is non-GMO and therefore ideal for vegans.
Base Ingredients: Shea butter oil, water, coconut oil, rapeseed oil, almonds.
Calories per Tbsp: 100 cal
Pros:
- Non-GMO
- Cholesterol-free
- Palm oil free
- Hydrogenated oil free
- No trans fat
Cons:
- May contain traces of nuts as stated on the label. Hence, it can be allergic for some people.
Best for: Spreading and Baking
Accessibility: Available in local stores and on the Amazon website.
Flavor: I liked its flavor since it had a mild taste of almonds that gave it a unique flavor.
For Spreading: I found that though the consistency of the butter was firm, it was easy to spread on any dish.
For Baking: The butter is irresistibly smooth and has a great texture. I would recommend it to be used in baking endeavors.
Varieties Available: Naturli’s Organic Vegan Spreadable, Naturli’s Vegan Block for Professionals.
Price: Starts from $7.95
15. Califia
Califia is one of the best vegan butter brands that has invariably made its mark in the hearts of people. For vegans looking for a butter substitute, Califia Farms Plant Butter is just the right option. With a thicker texture than most of its counterparts, the item is great for making thick and chewy bakery items. A cultured spread, the butter comes in variations of avocado oil and olive oil but both have the same base made up of coconut oil, thus carrying a similar taste.
A delicious plant-based alternative, Califia’s butter is palm oil free and devoid of gluten and soy. This butter also boasts of being non-GMO. With a unique flavor and texture, this delicious vegan butter can add to your palate experience in a whole new way.
Base Ingredients: Coconut Oil, Avocado Oil, Cashews, Tigernut Paste
Calories per Tbsp: 90 cal
Pros:
- Gluten-free
- Palm oil free
- Soy-free
- Non-GMO
Cons:
- Contains nuts and therefore can be allergic for some people.
Best for: Spreading
Accessibility: Usually available on Amazon.
Flavor: Personally, I did not like the flavor much because of its Tigernut paste that offers a very odd flavor.
For Spreading: It is good for spreading. I found it to be somewhat similar in texture to spreadable cheese and thus, it is a good addition to items that require a spread.
For Baking: As for baking, one thing that was evident to me is that the butter remained firmer in texture than many of the other vegan butter alternatives. Overall, it is your personal take as to what kind of baked goods you are trying to make.
Varieties Available: Presented in Sea Salt with Avocado Oil and Sea Salt with Olive Oil varieties.
Price: $4.99 per 8 oz tub
Well, the mentioned vegan butter brands can be used in place of traditional butter without you losing out on to your favorite baked goodies.
However, just a heads up that the butter from certain companies contains palm oil, the production of which is not sustainable and leads to deforestation, which is not deemed right by many vegans. Hence, looking up the labels of the butter brands is recommended at all times.
Also Read: The 15 Best Delicious Vegan Ice Creams to Try in 2023
How we selected these Brands?
For choosing any brand, we went through several factors that eventually made them ideal to be in the top 15 list of vegan butter brands.
These parameters include the following:-
- Price
- Flavor
- Texture
- Accessibility
- Performance in baked goods
- Unique characteristics
Things to Look for While Choosing Vegan Butter Brands
While choosing your favorite vegan butter brands, also look for other health and environmental impacts that these alternatives may carry with them.
Mentioned below are some of the points to keep in mind:-
- Certified Sustainable Palm Oil
There exist several vegan butter brands that makes use of Palm oil that is found in tropical rainforests. A major problem is that in recent years, these forests are being cleared to expand palm oil production, leading to deforestation. As such, when you buy these butter alternatives, ensure that they are made with sustainable palm oil.
Also, choose the butter option that does not have palm kernel oil in them since they are high in saturated fat.
- Check Trans Fat
Always check the nutritional levels, especially trans-fat vegan butter brands, before buying them. The main source of this fat includes partially hydrogenated oils that are not deemed as being safe by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration). Hence, they should be avoided.
Suggested Read => Vegan Gelatin Substitutes
Ways to Make Homebased Vegan Butter
Although the mentioned list of vegan butter brands makes for a great alternative to actual butter in your baking endeavors, making your very own home-based vegan butter can be advantageous too since you know what’s in it.
Ingredients:
- Melted refined coconut oil
- Lemon oil
- Non-dairy milk
- Sunflower lecithin
Steps:
- Take a small bowl, mix the non-dairy milk and lemon juice, and let it sit for a few minutes so that the milk gets curdled.
- In a blender, add the melted refined coconut oil (make sure it is at room temperature), milk mixture, and other ingredients. Blend until smooth.
- Transfer the liquid to a chilled container, cover it loosely, and keep it in the freezer for about forty minutes. Then transfer the content into the refrigerator and let it chill for two to three hours or till the time it gets set completely.
- Your vegan butter is now ready. Take it out from the refrigerator. Let it stay outside till it reaches room temperature and becomes spreadable.
Note:
- If you wish to make unsalted butter, add less salt. On the other hand, if you want extra saltiness, add more of it.
- If you wish to remove the entire butter from its mold, then use a silicon mold. If not, a glass container would be good too if you just wish to scoop or spread the butter as and when required.
- If you are using butter occasionally, in smaller portions, silicon mold is good
Storage Tips:
Vegan butter should be stored in the refrigerator to prevent spoilage and maintain maximum flavor and freshness. It can stay intact in the fridge for up to two weeks or you can freeze it for about three months. Since vegan butter options lack preservatives, it is essential to keep them cool to prevent bacterial growth in them.
Whole Foods Alternatives to Butter
Apart from the vegan butter brands, there are also natural alternatives that you can use without any hassles. Some of the options are as follows:-
1. Refined Coconut Oil
You can always use refined coconut oil in place of butter when baking at a 1:1 ratio. While it may slightly alter the flavor, it will still help you make a delectable item at last.
2. Avocado
Another option for you is to substitute avocado for vegan butter at a 1:1 ratio. Although they do not melt the same way as butter, they still work wonderfully in dishes that call for a butter touch.
3. Applesauce
You can easily make use of applesauce in baking and replace butter with this item at a 1:1 ratio. If the dish calls for a cup of butter, then use 1 cup of applesauce in its place.
4. Mashed Bananas
Mashed bananas are yet another delectable option to use in place of butter when baking. As such, one banana is equal to one stick of butter, therefore, try and replace the butter in equal amounts of mashed bananas.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is vegan butter dairy-free?
Yes, there are non-dairy vegan butter brands that produce butter that is free from dairy and animal-based ingredients. These substitutes thus, serve as a great option for vegans.
Is vegan butter healthy?
Vegan butter brands tend to be high in monosaturated fats since plant-based oil goes into their making instead of dairy. As such, these fats are deemed healthy as they aid in lowering bad cholesterol and provide essential antioxidants and minerals to the body.
Does vegan butter work similarly in baking as any normal butter variety?
Vegan butter works just as efficiently as any dairy-based butter and gives the same texture to baked items. Hence, they can easily be used for baking purposes.
What is the best vegan butter brand to be used for baking?
While, there exist several vegan butter brands exist for baking, the one that always steals the show is Earth Balance.
Is vegan butter salty?
Vegan butter comes in both salted and unsalted forms. However, the unsalted versions are a bit tricky to find.
How long does vegan butter stay in the refrigerator without going bad?
Vegan butter can stay in the refrigerator without going bad for about two weeks.
In what way vegan butter work?
Similar to other animal-free dairy products, vegan butter is based on plant-based oils that lend them the desired texture and taste as needed. As such, they work as naturally as any other butter alternative would.
Does vegan butter taste different from regular butter?
While vegan butter works as well as any traditional butter variant; there might be some differences in the flavor that each one of them possesses.
Can vegan butter be used in baking?
Yes, vegan butter can be used in baking in place of regular butter. Several brands in the market have specifically come up with vegan butter that is ideal for baking and even cooking. These butter alternatives can be used in recipes that require softened butter such as muffins, cakes, and cookies.
Is vegan butter better for the environment than regular butter?
Yes, vegan butter is a much better alternative than dairy butter when it comes to leaving carbon footprints and other impacts on the environment.
Takeaway (Final Thoughts)
And there you have it – some of the best vegan butter brands on your platter. So whether you wish to make your cookies a continued success in the upcoming party or you’re trying to give your buds a scrumptious experience like never before, one of the mentioned vegan butter alternatives is sure to meet your needs. Even if you want to know about some great meat substitutes that you can add to your diet, read here.
So, the very next time you make your grocery run, get a hold of one of these substitutes and let us know which one of them won your heart with its taste and texture! You can also check the vegan apps that is going to be famous by this year.
Can you please post the instructions for making the vegan chocolate peanut butter pie? I’ve made this recipe several times and love it! Planning to make it for Christmas but the post shows the picture of the pie but the recipe is gone. It’s information about vegan butters. Very helpful, but I need the pie recipe.
Thank you!