Soy butter provides a reliable non-dairy alternative for baking and spreads. If you are allergic to soy or averse to its flavor, however, a soy butter substitute is essential. One alternative, coconut oil, is a replacement that enriches baked goods. Olive oil makes a better choice for drizzling on morning toast.
Palm Oil
Palm oil is an ingredient in many varieties of vegan margarine. It is solid at room temperature, making it a useful choice for sweet baked goods. You can also use it for deep-frying and sauteing, as it withstands high temperatures well. However, palm oil production is costly to the environment, a consideration that might impact your decision. One tablespoon of palm oil contains 117 calories and 13.6 g of fat, while 1 tbsp. of soy butter contains 120 calories and the same amount of fat. The composition of different brands of soy butter vary, but they tend to have less saturated fat than palm oil.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is another handy substitute for soy butter in baking. Like shortening, it remains solid at room temperature and creates light, fluffy icing and flaky pastry crust. One tablespoon of coconut oil contains 117 calories and 13.6 g of fat. Use virgin coconut oil, not the hydrogenated version, to avoid needless saturated fat. Make a coconut oil pound cake to show off the mild flavor and rich character of this substitute.
Nut Butters
Replace soy butter with almond, sunflower seed, cashew or peanut butter for a rich, filling spread for sweet breads and muffins. Use it to enrich baking, experimenting with a combination of palm or coconut oil and nut butters to find a good texture and flavor balance. An advantage of nut butter substitutes is that they add nutritional value. For instance, 1 tbsp. of almond butter contains 98 calories, 9 g of fat, 120 g of potassium and 3 g of protein. Soy butter and oil alternatives contain more fat and calories without the potassium or protein. Additionally, some types of soy butter contain more saturated fat than some nut butters. Look at specific brands to compare their nutritional content.
Olive Oil
Olive oil is a traditional Italian adornment for crusty breads and pasta sauces. Use it liberally as a substitute for soy butter in savory dishes when its distinctive vegetable flavor is welcome. A pinch of salt enhances its flavor on bread. Use olive oil instead of soy butter in cakes or cookies for an unexpected savory note that pairs well with after-dinner digestifs and coffee. One tablespoon of olive oil has 120 calories and 15 g of fat. Health-wise, olive oil has a significant impact: Eating it as part of a balanced diet could reduce your risk of developing cardiovascular disease and cancer.
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