Ghee Substitute for Baking: Best Alternatives & Tips
Quick Answer
The best ghee substitutes for baking are butter (1:1 ratio), coconut oil (1:1 ratio), and vegetable shortening (1:1 ratio). Butter works best for most recipes, while coconut oil is ideal for vegan baking and shortening provides the most similar texture.
Best Substitutes
Butter
1:1The closest substitute with similar fat content and flavor
Best for:
Provides the most similar texture and flavor to ghee in baking
Coconut Oil
1:1Solid at room temperature, works well in most baking recipes
Best for:
Use refined coconut oil for neutral flavor, extra virgin for coconut taste
Vegetable Shortening
1:1Provides similar texture and structure to ghee
Best for:
Creates flaky texture similar to ghee, especially in pie crusts
Lard
1:1Traditional fat that works well in many baked goods
Best for:
Provides excellent flakiness and texture, especially in pie crusts
Vegan Butter
1:1Plant-based alternative that mimics butter's properties
Best for:
Choose high-fat varieties for best results
Olive Oil
3/4:1 (use 3/4 cup oil for 1 cup ghee)Liquid fat that works in certain baked goods
Best for:
Use extra virgin for flavor, light olive oil for neutral taste
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best substitute for ghee in baking?
Butter is the best substitute for ghee in baking because it has similar fat content, texture, and flavor. Use a 1:1 ratio for most recipes.
Can I use coconut oil instead of ghee in baking?
Yes, coconut oil works well as a ghee substitute in baking. Use refined coconut oil for neutral flavor or extra virgin for a subtle coconut taste. Use a 1:1 ratio.
Can you substitute ghee for butter in baking?
Yes, you can substitute ghee for butter in baking using a 1:1 ratio. Ghee will add a nuttier flavor and may create a slightly different texture.
What can I substitute for ghee in cookies?
Butter is the best substitute for ghee in cookies. It provides the same creaming properties and texture. Use a 1:1 ratio and cream with sugar until light and fluffy.
Can I use vegetable shortening instead of ghee?
Yes, vegetable shortening can substitute for ghee in baking, especially in pie crusts and pastries. It provides similar texture and structure. Use a 1:1 ratio.
What's the best ghee substitute for pie crust?
For pie crusts, use a combination of butter and vegetable shortening, or lard. This provides the flakiness and texture that ghee would give. Use equal parts butter and shortening.
Can I substitute ghee for butter in cake?
Yes, you can substitute ghee for butter in cakes using a 1:1 ratio. Ghee will add a nuttier flavor and may make the cake slightly denser due to its higher fat content.
What's the best vegan substitute for ghee in baking?
Refined coconut oil is the best vegan substitute for ghee in baking. It has a similar texture when solid and provides good results in most baked goods. Use a 1:1 ratio.
Can I use olive oil instead of ghee in baking?
Yes, olive oil can work as a ghee substitute in certain baked goods like quick breads and muffins. Use 3/4 cup olive oil for every 1 cup of ghee called for.
Does ghee make a difference in baking?
Ghee can make a difference in baking by adding a nutty, rich flavor and potentially affecting texture. However, butter or other substitutes can work just as well in most recipes.
Summary
Find the best ghee substitutes for baking including butter, coconut oil, and vegetable shortening. Learn ratios, tips, and which works best for different baked goods.