I remember the time I was out of apple butter and needed to make a quick substitution. I had a jar of apricot preserves in my refrigerator, so I decided to give that a try.
I put a dollop of preserves on my toast and took a bite.
It was an epic disaster!
My toast was covered in this weird, clumpy substance that tasted nothing like apple butter. I quickly scraped it off and vowed to never substitute apricot preserves for apple butter again.
If you find yourself in a similar situation, don’t worry!
We’ve compiled a list of substitutes for apple butter that will work in a pinch.
And trust me, none of them will taste as bad as that apricot preserves debacle. Don’t let being without apple butter stop you from having your favorite breakfast foods!
Substitutes for Apple Butter:
- Olive oil
- Yogurt
- Apple-sauce
- Vegetable oil
- Pureed Pumpkin
- Buttermilk
- Avocado
- Butter
Olive oil
Apple Butter and olive oil may not seem like they have much in common, but they make a suitable swap for each other in some cases. Both are fruit-based, so they have a similar sweetness, and they can be used 1:1 in many recipes.
For example, if you’re making pasta doughs or other baked goods, olive oil can be a more wholesome substitute for apple butter.
It’s rich in antioxidants and has a healthier fat profile, so it can help to boost the nutritional value of your dish.
Additionally, olive oil can also be used in a glaze for ham or other meats. It will add a delicious flavor to your dish and help to keep the meat moist.
Yogurt
Another suitable trade is yogurt. You may be thinking, “Yogurt as a replacement for apple butter, are you crazy?”
But trust me, it works like a charm.
Plus, it’s a lot healthier for you since it’s packed with live cultures and probiotics. Yogurt is also digestive friendly, so you will be getting a tasty alternative that won’t upset your stomach.
It’s also lower in sugar than apple butter, making it a healthier option. Best of all, yogurt is easy to find and relatively inexpensive.
To use yogurt as a substitute for apple butter, simply swap equal parts yogurt and apple butter. For example, if your recipe calls for 1 cup of apple butter, use 1 cup of yogurt instead.
Keep in mind that yogurt is thinner than apple butter, so you may need to use less of it to achieve the desired consistency.
The best part about using yogurt as a substitute for apple butter is that it’s best for baking and produces fluffy cakes. You can also add spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg to give your dish a flavor boost.
Apple-sauce
Many people believe that apple sauce is the perfect substitute for apple butter. After all, they are both made from apples. However, there are some key differences between the two.
Apple sauce is smoother and has a more liquid consistency, while apple butter is thick and spreadable. In addition, apple sauce is usually made with sweeter apples, while apple butter is made with tart apples.
As a result, apple sauce may not be the best choice for dishes that require tart apples, such as pies or tarts.
However, when substituting apple sauce for apple butter, it is important to keep the ratio in mind. For every 3 cups of apple butter, you will need 2 cups of apple sauce.
Additionally, apple sauce contains less sugar and fewer calories than apple butter. It is also a good source of polyphenols, which have been shown to lessen the risk of strokes.
Lastly, switching out apple butter for apple sauce in cakes and other recipes can cut down on sugar and calories without sacrificing flavor.
Vegetable oil
As any chef knows, vegetable oil is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. From cakes to fried chicken, vegetable oil can add flavor and texture to a dish.
However, what many chefs don’t know is that vegetable oil can also be used as a substitute for apple butter.
In my experience, when substituting vegetable oil for apple butter, it is important to keep the following in mind:
– Use a light hand when adding the oil. Too much oil can make your dish greasy.
– substitute using a 1:2 ratio of vegetable oil for apple butter. For example, if your recipe calls for 1/2 cup of apple butter, use 1/4 cup of vegetable oil instead.
– You may need to add a little extra sugar to your dish if you’re using vegetable oil as a substitute for apple butter. This is because apple butter is naturally sweeter than vegetable oil.
Not only does this swap protect your brain cells and aids in growth, but it also makes sure cakes and the majority of baked goodies stay moist and delicious.
Pureed Pumpkin
Pureed pumpkin is the perfect substitute for apple butter! Not only is it moist and rich like apple butter, but it also boasts a host of benefits.
Pumpkin is packed with Vitamin A, making it great for eyesight, and it’s also an immunity booster. What’s more, this versatile ingredient can be used in a variety of recipes – from pancakes to delish pies.
Hence, when substituting pumpkin puree for apple butter, use a one-to-one ratio. For example, if your recipe calls for one cup of apple butter, substitute it with one cup of pumpkin puree.
Pumpkin puree is also a great way to add moisture and flavor to cakes and other baked goods.
Buttermilk
Many people don’t know this, but buttermilk can be used as a low-fat substitute for apple butter in many recipes. The best part is that it’s easily sourced so you can usually find it right next to the milk in the grocery store.
When substituting buttermilk for apple butter, you’ll want to use a 1:2 trade. So, if the recipe calls for 2 cups of apple butter, you’ll use 1 cup of buttermilk. Keep in mind that buttermilk has a slight tinge of sourness, so you may want to adjust the other flavors accordingly.
Buttermilk is also great for fighting constipation. The lactic acid in buttermilk helps to keep things moving along smoothly if you know what I mean. So if you’re ever feeling a little backed up, reach for the buttermilk.
Your colon will thank you.
Moreover, buttermilk is excellent used in sauces, muffins, and bread.
Avocado
Apple butter is a smooth, creamy spread made from cooked apples. Avocado, on the other hand, is a smooth, creamy fruit that is often used as a spread.
So, it only makes sense that avocado can be used as a substitute for apple butter.
Avocado is packed with healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals, making it a great superfood. It’s also soft and velvety, making it a perfect replacement for apple butter in many dishes.
Plus, the potassium and folate in avocado boost memory and cognitive function. So not only is avocado butter healthier for you, but it might also help you perform better in school or at work!
Here are some ideas for how to use this delicious substitute:
- Try it on toast or sandwiches
- Use it as a pasta sauce
- Add it to smoothies or shakes
Butter
When it comes to baking, few substitutes can match the versatility and deliciousness of butter. That’s why I always keep a tub of butter in my fridge, ready to use as a substitute for whatever, and in this instance apple butter.
Furthermore, at a 1:1 ratio, butter makes an ideal alternative to apple butter in all baked products. Cakes, cookies, pies, pastries… you name it, butter can make it better.
In fact, butter may not be the healthiest but I often find that using it as a substitute for apple butter produces even tastier results.
FAQ
Can I use another fruit as a substitute for apple butter?
Yes, avocadoes make a great substitute for apple butter!
What is the best substitute for apple butter in baking?
Butter makes an ideal substitute for apple butter in all baked products.
Can I use vegetable oil as a substitute for apple butter?
Yes, you can use vegetable oil as a substitute for apple butter. Just keep in mind that it won’t taste as good.
Is there a dairy-free substitute for apple butter?
One dairy-free substitute for apple butter is avocado.
In Summary
Apple butter is a delicious and versatile spread. But if you find yourself out of apple butter, don’t worry! There are plenty of substitutes that will work just as well.
Pumpkin puree, avocado, butter, and buttermilk are all great substitutes for apple butter.
So next time you’re in need, just reach for one of these ingredients.
Now that you know all about substitutes for apple butter, put your knowledge to the test! Try out a new recipe or substitute apple butter in your favorite dish.
Just remember to have fun and experiment with different combinations of ingredients.
After all, that’s half the fun of cooking!