Running low on coconut oil? Here are the best verified substitutes, including how to adjust your measurements.
About coconut oil
Coconut oil is a plant-based fat extracted from the flesh of mature coconuts, solid at room temperature in cooler climates and liquid when warm. It has a high saturated fat content which gives it stability at high heat, making it suitable for frying and roasting. Virgin coconut oil carries a distinct coconut flavour and aroma, while refined coconut oil is neutral and odourless.
Best substitute
Butter is the closest match in texture and behaviour, being solid at room temperature with a similar fat content. It works well in baking and sautéing, though it adds a dairy flavour and has a lower smoke point than refined coconut oil.
Alternative
Vegetable shortening mimics the solid-at-room-temperature texture of coconut oil and is neutral in flavour, making it a reliable dairy-free swap in baking and pastry. It lacks the slight flavour nuance of virgin coconut oil but performs similarly in structure and texture.
Alternative
| Country | Name |
|---|---|
| Australia | coconut oil |
| Canada | coconut oil |
| New Zealand | coconut oil |
| United Kingdom | coconut oil |
| United States | coconut oil |
Refined avocado oil has one of the highest smoke points of any cooking oil, making it an excellent substitute for coconut oil in high-heat applications such as frying and roasting. It is liquid at room temperature, so it is not suitable as a direct swap in recipes where solid fat is required.
Alternative
Light (refined) olive oil is neutral in flavour and works well as a liquid fat substitute for coconut oil in baking, sautéing, and marinades. Because it is liquid at room temperature, recipes that rely on the solidifying property of coconut oil — such as no-bake slices or chocolate coatings — will not set correctly.
Alternative
Ghee is clarified butter with the milk solids removed, giving it a high smoke point and a rich, nutty flavour. It behaves similarly to coconut oil in cooking and baking, though it is a dairy product and will add a pronounced buttery note to the finished dish.