Ways to Substitute Butter

Margarine

Margarine is probably the best know and widely used substitute for butter. It contains no cholesterol because it is made from oils and is higher in polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats, which are considered "good" fats. However, some margarine also contains trans fat, which contributes to elevated cholesterol levels. Choosing tub margarine over the stick variety can reduce trans fat in the diet; generally, the more solid margarine contains the most trans fat. Margarine is used as a spread and in cooking and baking in place of butter.

Oils such as olive, nut, virgin coconut and flaxseed are healthier alternatives to butter for cooking. The oils contain fat, but they are healthier kinds of fats, such as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated. These types of fat help improve blood cholesterol levels. They also contain fatty acids, such as omega 6, omega 9 and omega 3, which are good for the heart. Olive oil can substitute for butter in just about any recipe, even as dips for seafood when combined with your favorite spices.

Applesauce, mashed bananas and puréed prunes, mangos, strawberries, pears and grapes can replace butter when baking. Make the purees at home or buy them at the supermarket. Puréed fruit adds more flavor and fiber to a recipe, while offering a lower-fat alternative to butter. Fruit purées are also a great source of antioxidants.

Avocados work well as a substitute for butter in traditional baking. Replace butter with equal amount of avocado in quick breads, muffins and even some brownie and cookie recipes. The avocado's creamy texture makes for softer, chewier baked goods that are less likely to crumble. Avocados also increase a product's nutritional value by adding good fats and numerous vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients; calorie content is also reduced.

Garlic and hummus are good substitutes for spreads when eating toast or other bread products. Roasted garlic makes a flavorsome spread, and the oils contain antioxidants, vitamin C and phosphorous. Buy hummus at local grocery stores or make your own. It is available in a variety of flavors, such as roasted pepper, garlic and roasted eggplant hummus.