No butter? No problem. Whether you’re cutting back on dairy, ran out of butter, or simply want a lighter bake, it’s totally possible to make a moist and flavorful cake without butter—and the results are just as satisfying.
In this article, you’ll learn how to substitute butter in cake recipes and how to make a soft, fluffy, no-butter cake from scratch using common ingredients.
Why Bake a Cake Without Butter?
- Lower in saturated fat
- Ideal for dairy-free or budget-friendly baking
- Oil creates a more moist and tender crumb
- Great for last-minute baking (no softening needed)
- Easier to mix by hand—no creaming necessary!
Best Butter Substitutes in Cakes
- Vegetable oil – Neutral taste, great moisture
- Coconut oil – Subtle flavor, solid at room temp
- Applesauce – For healthier cakes, use in combination with oil
- Mashed banana – Adds flavor and softness
- Avocado – A creamy, nutritious swap for butter
Easy No-Butter Vanilla Cake Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- ¾ cup sugar
- 2 eggs
- ¾ cup milk or plant-based milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat oven
To 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch cake pan.
2. Mix wet ingredients
Whisk together oil, sugar, eggs, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
3. Add dry ingredients
Sift in flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix gently until combined.
4. Bake
Pour into the prepared pan and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Cool
Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a rack.
Tips for the Perfect No-Butter Cake
- Use neutral-flavored oil like canola or sunflower
- Don’t overmix—this keeps the crumb tender
- Use room temperature eggs and milk for best texture
- Add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice for extra lift (especially helpful in vegan versions)
Flavor Variations
- Chocolate Cake – Add ¼ cup cocoa powder and 2 tbsp more milk
- Lemon Cake – Add zest and juice for bright citrus flavor
- Banana Cake – Replace some sugar with mashed banana
- Berry Cake – Fold in fresh or frozen berries just before baking
Dairy-Free Option
Substitute regular milk with almond, oat, soy, or coconut milk for a fully dairy-free version.
Topping Ideas
- Dust with powdered sugar
- Spread fruit jam or whipped cream
- Drizzle with dairy-free ganache
- Top with berries, nuts, or coconut flakes
Moist, Fluffy, and Butter-Free
You don’t need butter to bake a soft, delicious cake. With a few smart substitutions, you can create a recipe that’s lighter, quicker, and just as tasty. Whether you’re baking for dietary reasons or just in a pinch, this no-butter cake is sure to satisfy.
