Baking these days seems to be the only thing keeping us sane. But what happens when you run out of vegetable oil? Almost everybody hates having to go on a grocery run just for one ingredient.
Instead of leaving the house or throwing your plans out the window, use a substitute that will result in equally, or maybe even tastier brownies. This article will give you some ideas to replace vegetable oil and why use them.
Vegetable oil has a mild flavor, almost nonexistent, which is why it is the chosen fat in many recipes. This includes brownies, a baked good that is known for gooey chocolate and tons of sweetness.
While some prefer butter, vegetable oil contains unsaturated fat, thus, considered a healthier option.
What Can I Replace Vegetable Oil With?
So, if you can’t find any at home, or have run out of it, these substitutes for vegetable oil will work wonders:
For Deep Fry, Stir-Fry and Many Baking Recipes
#1. Olive Oil
Though a weird choice in most people’s eyes, olive oil works in making brownies, as it adds a bit of saltiness that contrasts chocolate very well.
This slightly bitter and fruity flavor complements the otherwise very sweet flavors in brownies, so you can use it for the same amount as the recipe indicates.
Olive oil is almost always a staple in many kitchens, which is why you surely have some at home. If not, you can buy it in every grocery store. Olive oil is also considered a very healthy source of monounsaturated fats.
Though some people stay away from coconut oil due to its high fat and caloric content, it is a good substitute for vegetable oil. Sometimes coconut oil comes in solid form but can be melted down quickly. To replace vegetable oil, you can use the same amount of coconut oil.
Since it is popular in some cuisines, coconut oil can be easy to find. Try your local grocery stores. Even convenience stores sell it as well. You may need to bake for a few more minutes, usually between five to ten.
In the same way, that olive oil can be used in brownies, so can canola oil. This option is also a good source of monounsaturated fatty acids, but it does have a bit of flavor when compared to vegetable oil.
You can use the same amount as you would use vegetable oil, but you may end up with a slightly different texture.
Canola oil is very common. You can buy it in any grocery or convenience store. This oil is another good option, as it has omega 3 and 6, which makes it a very nutritious choice for you (*).
Traditionally, butter has been a staple in baking. However, some people look to use oil for health reasons, but that doesn’t mean that butter isn’t a great source of fat to use in brownies.
You can use the same amount of butter that the recipe calls for but make sure to bake a few minutes longer to achieve the same texture.
You may already have butter in your refrigerator, but if not, it is easy to find in any grocery or convenience store. In a pinch, margarine will also work, though it is less healthy.
Butter results in very soft brownies that are also chewy, so it is a great way to add texture to your baked goods.
This may be the healthiest option in this list, as it is not fat, but rather puree apples with sugar. While this can work in replacing the oil in your brownies and baking recipes, it may cause them to dry out, so for better results, add more liquid, using another alternative in this list or something like yogurt.
Applesauce can be made quickly and without hassle. All you need to do is boil the apples with seasoning and a sweetener and then puree it. However, you can always buy applesauce in any store as well.
Another very healthy option that is not only high in protein but also low in fat, Greek unflavored yogurt is a great choice to replace the oil in your brownies. You should use half the amount that the recipe calls for, as it may be too much liquid otherwise.
Greek yogurt can be bought not only in any grocery store but also in convenience stores and organic markets. You may need to bake for a few minutes less than what is indicated, but start with less time and check as you go.
FAQs
What can I substitute for 1/2 cup of oil in brownies?
You can replace ½ cup of oil in brownies for the same amount of applesauce, butter, or coconut oil. You can also use ¼ cup of Greek yogurt. Check the baking time as well when you substitute the oil in your recipe, as some alternatives may speed up or slow down the process.
How do you make brownies without eggs or oil?
You can make brownies that don’t contain any oil or butter by using applesauce or Greek yogurt. However, the eggs act as a binding agent, so you will need to replace them with pureed fruit, pureed tofu, buttermilk, or flaxseed egg. These brownies may turn out very gooey and may dry quickly if overbaked, so keep an eye out of the baking time.
Can you use milk instead of eggs for brownies?
Milk on its own doesn’t have the same binding effect that eggs have. Instead, try foods like buttermilk, Greek yogurt, flaxseeds, tofu, or any type of nut butter. Milk can replace eggs in terms of moisture, but it won’t bind the ingredients together.
Conclusion
Making brownies sounds like a good idea any day, but instead of changing gears when you run out of vegetable oil, try one of these substitutes instead. These choices are easy to find and some are even very healthy. Use any of these alternatives and make fluffy, soft brownies this weekend!
Juliana has a BA in Journalism and Creative Writing as well as a M.S. in Nutrition, Dietetics, and Sensory Sciences. She loves traveling, trying new foods, and cooking. When she isn’t busy working, you can find her running with her dog Milo or reading a book in the sun.
