How do you get dairy free butter for your plant-based needs?

October 24, 2025 •

4 min read

Over one-third of consumers actively incorporate plant-based products into their diet, making dairy-free butter a popular staple for many. If you are wondering how do you get dairy free butter that tastes and performs like the traditional version, you have two primary options: making a homemade version with plant-based ingredients or purchasing from the wide variety of commercial brands now available.

Quick Summary

Obtain dairy-free butter by either crafting a homemade version using refined coconut oil, plant-based milk, and other kitchen staples, or by purchasing from many widely available commercial brands. This plant-based alternative can be used as a 1:1 substitute in most cooking and baking applications, depending on the specific product's fat content and ingredients.

Key Points

Buy vs. Make: The two primary ways to get dairy-free butter are purchasing commercial brands like Miyoko's or Earth Balance, or making a homemade version using refined coconut oil and plant-based milk.
Check the Ingredients: Commercial products use various plant-based oils (coconut, olive, avocado), and checking the label can help you find a flavor profile that suits your taste.
Mindful of Fat Content: For baking, be aware of the different fat-to-water ratios in dairy-free butter compared to traditional butter, as this can affect the final texture of baked goods.
Excellent for Spreading and Sautéing: Most plant-based butters are softer and spreadable right out of the fridge, and melt effectively for frying and sautéing.
Healthier Profile: Many dairy-free butters are cholesterol-free and lower in saturated fats compared to traditional butter, which can be beneficial for heart health.
Read Baking Recommendations: Some brands are formulated specifically for baking, while others are better suited for spreading; check product descriptions or reviews for best uses.

How to Get Dairy Free Butter: Your Options

For those seeking a delicious and functional alternative to traditional butter, there are two main paths to follow. Both store-bought and homemade dairy-free butters offer unique advantages, from convenience to ingredient control.

DIY Homemade Dairy-Free Butter

Making your own dairy-free butter allows you to customize the flavor and ingredients, avoiding unnecessary additives and allergens. The basic process involves combining a solid plant-based fat with a neutral oil, a non-dairy milk, and an emulsifier to achieve a creamy, buttery texture.

Here is a simple recipe based on popular homemade methods:

Ingredients:

1 cup melted refined coconut oil
1/4 cup neutral-tasting oil (like olive, avocado, or canola oil)
1/2 cup unsweetened non-dairy milk (soy or almond work well)
1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
1/2 teaspoon salt (omit for unsalted)
1 small pinch of turmeric (for color, optional)

Instructions:

In a blender, combine the non-dairy milk and apple cider vinegar and let it sit for a few minutes to create a vegan 'buttermilk'.
Add the melted coconut oil, neutral oil, salt, and turmeric to the blender.
Blend until the mixture is smooth and fully emulsified.
Pour the liquid into a mold or container and refrigerate for several hours, or until solid.
For an extra fluffy texture, whip the slightly firmed butter with a hand mixer for a few minutes before chilling it completely.

Best Store-Bought Dairy-Free Butters

If you prefer convenience, there are numerous excellent brands of dairy-free butter available in stores. These products are formulated to mimic the taste, texture, and cooking properties of traditional butter.

Some popular and highly-regarded brands include:

Miyoko's Cultured Vegan Butter: Known for its rich, tangy flavor, often made with a base of coconut oil and cashew milk.
Earth Balance Buttery Spread: A long-standing favorite that performs reliably for both spreading and baking.
Country Crock Plant Butter: A widely available option that comes in various plant-based oil varieties, such as avocado and olive oil.
Violife Salted Plant Butter: A coconut oil-based block that is great for melting and baking.
Melt Organic Butter: Another plant-based option available in sticks and tubs.

Dairy-Free Butter vs. Traditional Butter Comparison


Feature	Dairy-Free Butter	Traditional Dairy Butter
Source	Plant-based oils (e.g., coconut, olive, avocado) and plant milk.	Churned from the milk fat of an animal, typically a cow.
Fat Content	Varies by brand and recipe, but typically 60-80%.	Standardized at around 80-85% fat.
Saturated Fat	Generally lower, depending on the blend of oils used.	Can be higher in saturated fat.
Cholesterol	Contains no cholesterol.	Contains dietary cholesterol.
Taste	Can range from mild to rich and buttery, with some cultured versions mimicking a tangy flavor.	Classic creamy, rich, and slightly sweet flavor.
Spreadability	Often softer and more spreadable, even when cold.	Hardens in the refrigerator and needs softening for spreading.
Melting Point	Typically has a lower melting point, which is important for some baking applications.	Higher melting point, standard for cooking and baking.

Tips for Cooking and Baking with Dairy-Free Butter

While most plant-based butters can be swapped 1:1 for dairy butter, keep these tips in mind for best results:

For Baking: Pay close attention to the fat percentage of your chosen dairy-free butter. The water-to-fat ratio can slightly affect the final texture of baked goods, such as cookies. Some brands, like Earth Balance, are specifically noted for their baking performance. For recipes requiring cold butter (like pie crusts), ensure your dairy-free butter is well-chilled and solid.
For Spreading: Because many dairy-free butters are softer at colder temperatures, they are excellent for spreading on toast, muffins, and other baked goods directly from the fridge.
For Frying and Sautéing: Dairy-free butters melt just like their dairy counterparts, making them perfect for frying and sautéing vegetables or other foods.
For Sauces: Plant-based butter can be used to create creamy, dairy-free sauces, but be mindful of its lower melting point, which can cause separation if overheated.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Dairy-Free Option

Accessing dairy-free butter is simple, whether you choose the DIY route or opt for a convenient store-bought brand. With the wide variety of plant-based oil combinations, such as coconut, avocado, and olive oil, you can find a suitable option for any culinary need, from spreading on toast to complex baking recipes. By understanding the nuances of different dairy-free products, you can ensure your meals remain flavorful and satisfying while adhering to your dietary preferences.

Whether you prioritize rich flavor, perfect spreadability, or specific baking results, the abundance of options means you no longer need to sacrifice taste for a dairy-free lifestyle. Experiment with different brands and homemade recipes to find your perfect match. The versatility of plant-based butter makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking to reduce their dairy intake without compromising on taste.

For more information on plant-based alternatives and their nutritional profiles, you can consult resources like MedicineNet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Dairy-free butter is made from a blend of plant-based oils, such as coconut, palm, and olive oil, combined with ingredients like non-dairy milk, water, and an emulsifier to create a butter-like texture.

Yes, many dairy-free butters are designed to be a 1:1 substitute for regular butter in baking. Some perform better than others, so checking reviews or product specifications can help you choose the best one.

Yes, for the most part. The terms are often used interchangeably to refer to plant-based, non-dairy alternatives. A product labeled 'vegan' is always dairy-free, while a product labeled 'dairy-free' may not always be strictly vegan if it contains other animal-derived ingredients, but this is rare for butter substitutes.

Taste is subjective, but many people praise Miyoko's Cultured Vegan Butter for its rich, European-style flavor. Other popular and widely-regarded options include Country Crock Plant Butter and Earth Balance.

Most dairy-free butter products are already soft and spreadable straight from the refrigerator, unlike conventional butter. This is due to the different blend of plant-based oils used in their formulation.

Yes, dairy-free butter melts similarly to traditional butter, making it suitable for sautéing and creating sauces. However, it often has a lower melting point, so it may melt more quickly.

Many dairy-free butters are cholesterol-free and contain less saturated fat than traditional butter, which can be beneficial for heart health. However, the overall nutritional profile depends on the specific product and its ingredients.