Oil to Butter Conversion Formula

Understand the math behind the oil to butter conversion. Each variable explained with a worked example.

Use the Oil to Butter Conversion

Formulas Used

Oil Equivalent

oil_g = butter_amount * 0.8

Oil in Tablespoons

oil_tbsp = (butter_amount * 0.8) / 13.5

Butter in Cups

butter_cups = butter_amount / 227

Oil in Cups

oil_cups = (butter_amount * 0.8) / 218

Variables

VariableDescriptionDefault
butter_amountButter Amount(g)113

How It Works

How to Convert Oil to Butter

Formula

Oil = Butter x 0.80

Butter is approximately 80% fat and 20% water/milk solids. Since oil is 100% fat, you need less oil to replace butter.

Quick Reference

  • 1 stick butter (113 g) = 90 g oil (about 6.5 tbsp)
  • 1 cup butter (227 g) = 182 g oil (about 3/4 cup + 2 tbsp)

    • Worked Example

    Replace 113 g (1 stick) of butter with oil.

    butter_amount = 113
    1. 01Oil needed: 113 x 0.8 = 90.4 g.
    2. 02In tablespoons: 90.4 / 13.5 = 6.7 tbsp.
    3. 03Use about 6.5-7 tablespoons of oil.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Why use less oil than butter?

    Butter is only 80% fat; the rest is water and milk solids. Oil is 100% fat, so you need 20% less by weight to get the same amount of fat.

    What oil is best for baking?

    Neutral oils like canola, vegetable, or light olive oil work best. Coconut oil is a good substitute when solid fat is needed. Avoid strong-flavored oils.

    Does using oil change the texture?

    Yes, oil makes baked goods more moist and tender. Butter provides flakiness and a richer flavor. Cookies with oil spread less than those with butter.

    Ready to run the numbers?

    Open Oil to Butter Conversion