Butter vs Cooking Oil
Density, calorie, and weight differences — and whether they can substitute for each other.
Substitution Verdict
Density difference: 4.3%. Very similar — 1:1 substitution is usually safe.
Calories per 100 g: Butter 717 kcal vs Cooking Oil 884 kcal. Difference: 167 kcal — Cooking Oil is higher.
Weight Conversions (per Spoon and Cup)
| Measure | Butter | Cooking Oil |
|---|---|---|
| 1 tablespoon | 14 g | 13.8 g |
| 1 teaspoon | 4.7 g | 4.6 g |
| 1 cup | 227 g | 218 g |
| Density | 0.96 g/ml | 0.92 g/ml |
Measuring Tips
1 stick (US) = 1/2 cup = 113 g. Use room-temperature butter for creaming, cold for pie crust.
Measure oil before sticky ingredients (honey, peanut butter) — oil coats spoon for easier release.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Butter be substituted for Cooking Oil?▾
Very similar — 1:1 substitution is usually safe. Density of Butter is 0.96 g/ml; Cooking Oil is 0.92 g/ml — a 4.3% difference. But flavor, moisture, and chemistry can still differ — verify suitability for the specific recipe.
How many grams in 1 tablespoon of Butter vs Cooking Oil?▾
1 tbsp Butter ≈ 14 g. 1 tbsp Cooking Oil ≈ 13.8 g. By weight: 1 tbsp Butter = 1.01 tbsp Cooking Oil.
Which has more calories, Butter or Cooking Oil?▾
Per 100 g: Butter 717 kcal, Cooking Oil 884 kcal. Cooking Oil has 167 more kcal.
What is Butter typically used for?▾
Butter is commonly used in: baking, sautéing, spreading, pan sauces. Source: king-arthur, usda-fdc.
What is Cooking Oil typically used for?▾
Cooking Oil is commonly used in: frying, baking, salad dressing, marinades. Source: usda-fdc.