For anyone following a plant-based lifestyle, finding dairy-free substitutes that taste and feel just right can be a challenge—especially when it comes to butter. While store-bought vegan butter options exist, they’re often pricey or packed with additives. Luckily, making your own vegan butter at home is surprisingly simple—and incredibly rewarding.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through how to make homemade vegan butter from scratch. Whether you want a version made from coconut oil, cashews, or a soy-free blend, this post will show you exactly what to do, step by step.
Why Make Vegan Butter at Home?
Before diving into the recipe, let’s talk about why homemade vegan butter is worth your time:
1. Better Ingredients
You’re in full control of what goes in—no artificial preservatives, hydrogenated oils, or unnecessary fillers.
2. Customizable
Need a soy-free, nut-free, or oil-free version? DIY vegan butter can be adjusted to meet your dietary needs.
3. Cost-Effective
Store-bought vegan butters can be expensive. Making it yourself can save money in the long run.
4. Sustainable and Ethical
Choosing plant-based butter helps reduce the environmental impact associated with dairy production—and aligns with a cruelty-free lifestyle.
What Is Vegan Butter Made From?
Vegan butter mimics the creaminess and richness of traditional dairy butter without using animal products. It typically includes:
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Plant-based oils (like coconut, avocado, or olive)
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Milk alternatives (almond, soy, oat, or cashew milk)
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Lecithin (emulsifier—optional, but improves texture)
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Apple cider vinegar or lemon juice (for slight tang and preservation)
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Salt (for flavor)
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Turmeric (optional—for a buttery color)
Equipment You’ll Need
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Blender or food processor (high-speed recommended)
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Measuring cups and spoons
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Mixing bowl
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Silicone mold or airtight storage container
Base Recipe: Creamy Vegan Butter (Coconut Oil-Based)
This recipe yields a smooth, buttery spread perfect for toast, baking, or cooking.
Ingredients:
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1 cup refined coconut oil (melted but not hot)
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¼ cup neutral oil (e.g., sunflower, grapeseed, or avocado)
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½ cup unsweetened soy milk or almond milk
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1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
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½ teaspoon sea salt (adjust to taste)
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Optional: ½ teaspoon turmeric (for color)
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Optional: 1 teaspoon sunflower lecithin (for improved spreadability)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Milk Base
In a small bowl or measuring cup, combine the plant milk with apple cider vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes to curdle slightly—this mimics the tang of buttermilk.
Step 2: Melt the Coconut Oil
Melt the coconut oil gently using a double boiler or microwave. It should be fully liquid but not hot to the touch.
Step 3: Blend the Ingredients
In a blender or food processor, combine:
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Melted coconut oil
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Neutral oil
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Curdled plant milk
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Salt
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Optional lecithin and turmeric
Blend on high speed for 30–60 seconds until fully emulsified and creamy. The mixture should look smooth and thick like pancake batter.
Step 4: Pour and Chill
Pour the butter mixture into a silicone mold or airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours until firm. It will solidify and develop the same consistency as dairy butter.
Flavor Variations
Homemade vegan butter is easy to customize. Here are a few variations to try:
1. Garlic Herb Butter
Add minced garlic, chopped parsley, rosemary, or thyme to the blended mix. Great for garlic bread or roasted veggies.
2. Smoked Butter
Add a drop or two of liquid smoke for a savory, smoky taste. Pairs well with grilled dishes.
3. Sweet Cinnamon Butter
Add maple syrup, cinnamon, and a touch of vanilla. Perfect for pancakes, waffles, or muffins.
Cashew-Based Vegan Butter Recipe
If you’re avoiding coconut oil or prefer a nut-based version, cashews make a great alternative.
Ingredients:
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1 cup raw cashews (soaked for 4+ hours or overnight)
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⅓ cup water or plant-based milk
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3 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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½ teaspoon salt
Instructions:
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Drain and rinse soaked cashews.
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Blend all ingredients on high until smooth and creamy.
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Chill in a sealed container until thickened. This version will stay soft and spreadable even in the fridge.
Tips for Perfect Vegan Butter
1. Use Refined Coconut Oil
Unrefined (virgin) coconut oil has a strong coconut flavor. Refined coconut oil is neutral and ideal for butter flavor.
2. Emulsify Thoroughly
Use a high-speed blender for a smoother, creamier texture. The emulsification step is key to mimicking the feel of dairy butter.
3. Storage
Homemade vegan butter will last:
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Up to 2 weeks in the fridge
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Up to 3 months in the freezer
Store in an airtight glass container or silicone mold to maintain texture and freshness.
4. Room Temperature Spreadability
Because coconut oil hardens when cold, let your vegan butter sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before using if you want it more spreadable.
Can You Bake with Vegan Butter?
Absolutely. Homemade vegan butter can be used in place of dairy butter in most baking recipes, especially if the recipe calls for melted or softened butter.
For flakier baked goods like biscuits or pie crusts, freeze your vegan butter and grate it into the dough for similar results to cold dairy butter.
Common FAQs
Q: Is vegan butter healthy?
Vegan butter made from whole ingredients and healthy oils can be part of a balanced diet. Opt for recipes that avoid hydrogenated fats and artificial additives.
Q: Does vegan butter taste like dairy butter?
Homemade versions come very close. With the right oil blend and salt level, the flavor can be nearly identical—especially when used in cooking or baking.
Q: Is it allergy-friendly?
Yes. You can make nut-free, soy-free, or oil-free versions depending on your needs.
Vegan Living Beyond the Kitchen
Choosing to make your own vegan butter is just one way to align your lifestyle with compassion, sustainability, and health. But your values can extend beyond what’s in your fridge. What you wear matters too.
At The Dharma Store, you’ll find ethically made vegan-themed t-shirts crafted from organic cotton. Each design promotes cruelty-free living and makes a bold statement for the planet and animals. Wearing your ethics proudly is just as important as living them.
Final Thoughts
Making your own vegan butter is not only easy but incredibly satisfying. With just a few simple ingredients and a blender, you can create a rich, creamy, and versatile spread that’s perfect for everything from toast to baked goods.
Skip the additives, reduce waste, and control your flavor by making plant-based butter at home. Whether you prefer a coconut oil version or a creamy cashew base, there’s a recipe that fits your taste and lifestyle.
And remember—plant-based living isn’t just about what you eat. Show the world what you stand for with statement apparel from The Dharma Store, where ethical fashion meets purpose.