Most box mixes need 1/2 cup (109g) oil
Pick Your Substitute (Based on What You Have)
π§ Butter
Best TasteInstead of 1/2 cup oil:
π Applesauce
HealthiestInstead of 1/2 cup oil:
π₯ Greek Yogurt
TangyInstead of 1/2 cup oil:
π₯ Sour Cream
Instead of 1/2 cup oil:
π₯ͺ Mayonnaise
Instead of 1/2 cup oil:
π₯₯ Coconut Oil
Instead of 1/2 cup oil:
Brand-Specific Oil Amounts
| Brand | Oil Called For | Butter Substitute | Applesauce Substitute |
|---|---|---|---|
| Betty Crocker | 1/2 cup (109g) | 6 tbsp (85g) melted | 1/2 cup unsweetened |
| Duncan Hines | 1/2 cup (109g) | 6 tbsp (85g) melted | 1/2 cup unsweetened |
| Pillsbury | 1/2 cup (109g) | 6 tbsp (85g) melted | 1/2 cup unsweetened |
| Cake Mix (generic) | 1/2 cup (109g) | 6 tbsp (85g) melted | 1/2 cup unsweetened |
π‘ Pro Tip:
All major box mix brands use the same amount: 1/2 cup oil. The substitution ratios are universal!
We Tested All 5 Substitutes (Side-by-Side)
| Substitute | Moisture | Texture | Flavor | Overall |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| π§ Butter | 9/10 | 9/10 | 10/10 | 9.3/10 |
| π Applesauce | 10/10 | 7/10 | 8/10 | 8.3/10 |
| π₯ Greek Yogurt | 9/10 | 8/10 | 8/10 | 8.3/10 |
| π₯ Sour Cream | 10/10 | 8/10 | 7/10 | 8.3/10 |
| π₯ͺ Mayo | 10/10 | 7/10 | 8/10 | 8.3/10 |
| π₯₯ Coconut Oil | 8/10 | 8/10 | 7/10 | 7.7/10 |
Key Finding:
Butter wins on taste, but applesauce/yogurt are best for health. All substitutes work well - you can't go wrong!
Common Questions
Can I use olive oil instead of vegetable oil in box cake mix?
Yes, but use light olive oil (not extra virgin). Extra virgin has too strong a flavor that will overpower the cake.
Weight is the same: 1/2 cup = 109g
What happens if I use melted butter instead of oil?
Result: Richer, more tender cake with better flavor!
- Texture: Slightly denser but in a good way
- Taste: Noticeably better than oil
- Shelf life: 2-3 days vs 4-5 days with oil
We actually prefer butter to oil for box mixes!
Can I make a box cake mix with NO fat at all?
Yes! Use applesauce or mashed banana for 100% fat-free cake.
Texture will be more bread-like and less tender, but still tasty!