Butter vs Margarine
Density, calorie, and weight differences — and whether they can substitute for each other.
Substitution Verdict
Density difference: 1%. Very similar — 1:1 substitution is usually safe.
Calories per 100 g: Butter 717 kcal vs Margarine 717 kcal. Same.
Weight Conversions (per Spoon and Cup)
| Measure | Butter | Margarine |
|---|---|---|
| 1 tablespoon | 14 g | 14 g |
| 1 teaspoon | 4.7 g | 4.7 g |
| 1 cup | 227 g | 227 g |
| Density | 0.96 g/ml | 0.95 g/ml |
Measuring Tips
1 stick (US) = 1/2 cup = 113 g. Use room-temperature butter for creaming, cold for pie crust.
Margarine is more shelf-stable than butter at room temperature. For baking that needs butter flavor (croissants, shortbread), butter wins. For everyday cooking, margarine is fine and cheaper.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Butter be substituted for Margarine?▾
Very similar — 1:1 substitution is usually safe. Density of Butter is 0.96 g/ml; Margarine is 0.95 g/ml — a 1% difference. But flavor, moisture, and chemistry can still differ — verify suitability for the specific recipe.
How many grams in 1 tablespoon of Butter vs Margarine?▾
1 tbsp Butter ≈ 14 g. 1 tbsp Margarine ≈ 14 g. By weight: 1 tbsp Butter = 1.00 tbsp Margarine.
Which has more calories, Butter or Margarine?▾
Per 100 g: Butter 717 kcal, Margarine 717 kcal. Same calorie content.
What is Butter typically used for?▾
Butter is commonly used in: baking, sautéing, spreading, pan sauces. Source: king-arthur, usda-fdc.
What is Margarine typically used for?▾
Margarine is commonly used in: bread spread, sautéing, baking, buttercream. Source: usda-fdc.