What can you substitute Margarine and butter with in baking cookies?

Here are some substitutes for margarine and butter in baking cookies, along with tips for each:

1. Oil (Vegetable, Canola, Coconut, etc.):

* Ratio: Use 3/4 cup of oil for every 1 cup of butter or margarine.

* Tips: Oils tend to produce cookies that are slightly chewier and spread more. Coconut oil adds a unique flavor.

2. Applesauce:

* Ratio: Use 1/2 cup of applesauce for every 1 cup of butter or margarine.

* Tips: Applesauce adds moisture and a slight sweetness. It's good for a healthier option.

3. Avocado:

* Ratio: Use 1/2 cup of mashed avocado for every 1 cup of butter or margarine.

* Tips: Avocado adds richness and moisture. It can slightly change the flavor of your cookies.

4. Yogurt (Plain or Greek):

* Ratio: Use 1/2 cup of yogurt for every 1 cup of butter or margarine.

* Tips: Yogurt adds a tangy flavor and makes cookies slightly chewier.

5. Banana Puree:

* Ratio: Use 1/4 cup of banana puree for every 1/4 cup of butter or margarine.

* Tips: Adds moisture and sweetness. May work best in chocolate chip cookies.

6. Shortening:

* Ratio: Use 1 cup of shortening for every 1 cup of butter or margarine.

* Tips: Shortening will produce a crispier cookie than butter or margarine.

Additional Tips:

* Adjust liquid: If using a wetter substitute like applesauce or yogurt, you may need to reduce the amount of other liquid ingredients in your recipe (like milk or eggs) to prevent the cookies from spreading too much.

* Test a small batch: It's always a good idea to test your substitute with a small batch of cookies first to make sure you like the results before making a full batch.

* Consider flavor: Some substitutes like avocado or banana can impart a noticeable flavor to your cookies. Choose substitutes that will complement the overall flavor profile of your recipe.

Remember, these substitutions may affect the texture, flavor, and spread of your cookies. Experiment with different options and find what works best for your taste!