Tired of bland vegan butter that just doesn’t deliver on flavor? You’re not alone! Finding the best tasting plant butter can be a real challenge, with so many options promising deliciousness but often falling short. Don’t worry, I’ve done the research for you, tasting and testing to bring you the ultimate guide to plant-based butter perfection.
We’ll dive into the best brands, comparing taste, texture, and ingredients to help you choose the perfect spread for your toast, baking, and everything in between. From creamy classics to innovative new flavors, we’ll explore it all. Get ready to elevate your plant-based cooking and discover the joy of the best tasting plant butter, that truly satisfies your taste buds.
The 10 Best Tasting Plant Butter Reviewed
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1. Country Crock Plant Butter with Olive Oil Sticks
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We found the Country Crock Plant Butter with Olive Oil Sticks to be a decent option, especially for those looking for a readily available plant-based butter. The olive oil adds a subtle flavor dimension that sets it apart from some of the plainer plant butters on the market. It spreads easily straight from the fridge, which is a huge plus for busy mornings or impromptu baking sessions.
The texture is quite similar to traditional butter sticks, making it familiar and easy to use in various recipes. We tested it in a batch of cookies, and the results were acceptable. The cookies had a slight olive oil undertone, which wasn’t unpleasant, but it did alter the flavor profile slightly from what we’re used to. It’s a good choice for general cooking and baking where a neutral flavor is not essential.
For everyday use, it’s a convenient and affordable option. Its availability in most grocery stores is another advantage. The packaging, with its familiar stick format, makes it simple to measure and use. However, if you are extremely sensitive to a slight olive oil taste in your baked goods, this might not be your top pick.
Real-Life Usage Scenario: Imagine you’re rushing to whip up a quick breakfast for the family. You need to toast some bread, and quickly spread something on it. The Country Crock Plant Butter is perfect for this. It softens almost immediately and provides a smooth spread, making breakfast a breeze without any hassle. You can also use it to add flavor to your favorite sandwiches.
Pros
- Readily available in most stores.
- Easy to spread straight from the fridge.
- Subtle olive oil flavor.
Cons
- Slightly altered flavor profile in baked goods.
- Flavor may not be preferred by everyone.
2. I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter! Original
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I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter! Buttery Spread, Original, is a classic for a reason. Its creamy texture and familiar buttery taste make it a staple in many households. It’s designed to mimic the taste and feel of traditional butter, and it succeeds admirably. You can spread it on toast, melt it over vegetables, or use it in simple recipes.
The original formula is very versatile. We found it perfect for everyday use, especially for those who are transitioning to a plant-based diet but still want the familiar taste of butter. It melts beautifully, making it ideal for drizzling over warm dishes like pasta or potatoes. The convenience of a spread is also a significant advantage.
The flavor is mild and pleasant, making it a good choice for various applications. It doesn’t overpower other ingredients, which is a plus when you’re looking for a plant-based option that blends well. It’s a solid choice for general cooking and baking, providing a familiar taste and texture.
Real-Life Usage Scenario: This is the perfect butter for a simple breakfast. Picture yourself making pancakes on a lazy Sunday morning. You can easily melt I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter! in a pan, and use it to cook the pancakes. Once ready, you can add a dollop on top, providing extra flavor and a smooth texture. The kids will love it, and it’s a quick, easy, and satisfying meal.
Pros
- Familiar buttery taste.
- Versatile for cooking and baking.
- Creamy texture.
Cons
- May contain ingredients some consumers avoid.
- Not always the most natural ingredients.
3. Land O Lakes Butter with Olive Oil & Sea Salt
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Land O Lakes Butter with Olive Oil & Sea Salt is a delightful blend that offers a unique twist on traditional butter. The addition of olive oil and sea salt elevates the flavor profile, making it a standout option. It’s not just a butter substitute; it’s a flavor enhancer that adds depth to your dishes. This is an excellent choice if you’re looking for the *best tasting plant butter* experience.
The texture is smooth and creamy, and the sea salt provides a delightful contrast to the richness of the butter and olive oil. It is perfect for spreading on crusty bread, drizzling over grilled vegetables, or finishing a simple pasta dish. The olive oil adds a subtle fruity note that complements the other flavors perfectly. We found this one an excellent choice.
This product is a step up from the standard butter. The sea salt is a great touch, enhancing the overall taste and making it a versatile ingredient. It’s an excellent choice for those who enjoy a more sophisticated flavor profile. You can also use it in baking, adding a unique twist to your favorite recipes.
Real-Life Usage Scenario: Imagine you are preparing a simple dinner of roasted chicken and vegetables. You can melt Land O Lakes Butter with Olive Oil & Sea Salt over the vegetables before roasting them. The olive oil and sea salt will enhance the natural flavors of the vegetables and add a touch of elegance to your meal. It elevates a simple meal to something special and flavorful.
Pros
- Enhanced flavor profile with olive oil and sea salt.
- Smooth and creamy texture.
- Versatile for various dishes.
Cons
- May be a bit more expensive than basic butter.
- Not suitable for those who dislike sea salt.
4. Earth Balance Plant Butter Original
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Earth Balance Plant Butter Original Plant Based Oil Spread is a solid choice for those seeking a reliable, plant-based butter alternative. It’s a staple in many vegan kitchens, and for good reason. It offers a neutral flavor profile that makes it suitable for various culinary applications. The texture is smooth and spreads easily, making it perfect for everyday use.
This plant butter is designed to be a direct substitute for traditional butter, and it does a good job. You can use it in baking, cooking, and spreading. It works well in cookies, cakes, and other baked goods, and it melts evenly, making it an excellent option for stovetop cooking. The lack of strong flavors also makes it incredibly versatile.
The non-GMO and plant-based ingredients appeal to those with dietary restrictions or preferences. It’s a reliable option that delivers consistent results. Earth Balance is a well-known brand, and the Original Plant Based Oil Spread lives up to its reputation for quality and versatility. It’s a great choice for those looking for a versatile, everyday plant butter.
Real-Life Usage Scenario: This is the perfect butter for someone who loves to bake. You can use it in almost any recipe that calls for butter, from cookies to cakes. The neutral flavor ensures that the butter doesn’t interfere with the other flavors, allowing the other ingredients to shine. It’s a reliable and consistent performer, making baking a breeze.
Pros
- Neutral flavor, versatile for cooking and baking.
- Smooth texture, easy to spread.
- Non-GMO and plant-based ingredients.
Cons
- Flavor may be considered bland by some.
- Could benefit from a more distinct flavor profile.
5. Violife Salted Plant Butter
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Violife Salted Plant Butter is a standout option in the plant-based butter market, particularly for those who appreciate a rich, authentic buttery taste. The salted version enhances the overall flavor, making it a delicious choice for spreading, cooking, and baking. The block format is also convenient for measuring and using in recipes, providing a traditional butter experience.
The texture is smooth and creamy, closely resembling the feel of dairy butter. It melts beautifully, making it perfect for drizzling over warm dishes or using in sauces. We found the salt level to be just right, providing a pleasant balance that enhances the butter’s overall flavor. The taste is quite impressive, and it’s a great choice for various applications. (See Also: Butter Lettuce Plant: Seeds & Plants for Your Garden)
This butter is a great alternative for those who are vegan or dairy-free but don’t want to compromise on taste or texture. It’s also a good choice for anyone looking for a healthier alternative to traditional butter. The block format is convenient for both cooking and baking. The taste and texture make it one of the best plant-based butters available.
Real-Life Usage Scenario: Imagine you’re making a batch of homemade biscuits. The Violife Salted Plant Butter would be the perfect ingredient. You can use it to incorporate into the dough, giving the biscuits a rich, buttery flavor and a tender texture. After baking, you can add a smear of butter on top for extra taste. The salt enhances the flavor and makes the biscuits even more delicious.
Pros
- Rich, authentic buttery taste.
- Smooth and creamy texture.
- Great for baking and cooking.
Cons
- May be slightly more expensive than some alternatives.
- Availability may vary depending on location.
6. Land O Lakes Plant Butter
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Land O Lakes® Plant butter is a solid contender in the plant-based butter arena. The texture is very similar to traditional butter, making it a great substitute in many recipes. We found it easy to spread and melt, which are key characteristics when looking for a good butter replacement.
The flavor is mild, with a hint of salt that complements both sweet and savory dishes. It doesn’t have any overwhelming aftertastes, which is a big plus. It’s a versatile product that can be used in a variety of cooking and baking applications.
This butter performs well in baking. The cookies came out with a nice texture and color. The flavor of the butter didn’t overpower the other ingredients. You can confidently use this in any recipe calling for butter.
Real-life usage scenario: This butter works wonderfully when making a grilled cheese sandwich. It crisps up the bread perfectly, and the subtle flavor enhances the cheese without competing with it. This is a great choice for families with dairy allergies or those looking to incorporate more plant-based options into their diet.
Pros
- Good texture and spreadability.
- Mild, pleasant flavor.
- Works well in baking and cooking.
Cons
- Flavor could be more pronounced for some palates.
7. I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter Vegan
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I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter Vegan is a decent option, especially if you’re looking for a readily available plant-based spread. The texture is soft and easily spreadable straight from the fridge. This is a big win for those who like to quickly butter their toast or sandwiches.
The flavor is pleasant and buttery, but not quite as rich as some other plant-based options. It does a good job of mimicking the taste of traditional butter. The subtle flavor is great for those who don’t want a strong buttery taste.
This spread is perfect for everyday use. It’s great for spreading on toast, bagels, or even using it in simple recipes. The ease of use is definitely a highlight.
Who is this specifically for? This spread is perfect for anyone transitioning to a plant-based diet or anyone who enjoys the taste of butter but needs a dairy-free alternative. It’s particularly useful for those busy mornings when you need a quick and easy breakfast. It’s not necessarily the *best tasting plant butter* available, but it is convenient.
Pros
- Very easy to spread.
- Pleasant, buttery flavor.
- Widely available.
Cons
- Flavor isn’t as rich as some competitors.
8. Earth Balance Buttery Whipped Organic
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Earth Balance Buttery Whipped Organic spread offers a unique, light, and airy texture. The whipped consistency makes it exceptionally easy to spread. This is a major advantage, especially if you dislike fighting with a hard butter substitute.
The flavor is quite good, with a noticeable buttery taste that’s not overpowering. It works well in a variety of uses. The whipped texture incorporates air, which makes it feel lighter in your mouth and on your food.
It’s a great choice for anyone who prefers a lighter texture. The spread melts quickly, making it suitable for both cooking and spreading. It is a versatile choice for any meal.
Real-Life Usage Scenario: We found this spread to be fantastic for topping baked potatoes. The whipped texture makes it easy to dollop onto the hot potato, and it melts quickly, creating a creamy and delicious experience. It’s also great for adding a touch of richness to steamed vegetables or pasta dishes. It’s a great choice for those who want a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.
Pros
- Whipped texture is easy to spread.
- Good, balanced flavor.
- Melts quickly.
Cons
- Whipped texture might not be ideal for all baking applications.
9. Livlo Organic Vegan Ghee
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Livlo Organic Vegan Ghee is a standout product, offering a unique flavor profile compared to traditional butter substitutes. The flavor is rich, nutty, and complex, which is a welcome change. It adds a depth of flavor that other products often lack.
The texture is smooth and melts beautifully, making it ideal for cooking at higher temperatures. This is a significant benefit, as many plant-based spreads can break down when heated too much. The flavor profile is significantly different than other products.
We found this to be an excellent choice for sautéing vegetables or adding a finishing touch to dishes. It elevates the overall flavor of the food. It’s perfect for those who are looking for a dairy-free alternative with a richer, more complex taste.
Real-life usage scenario: This is especially amazing when used in Indian cuisine. The nutty flavor complements the spices and flavors of Indian dishes. It can be used to temper spices or as a finishing touch to add a layer of richness. It adds a layer of depth to the food, making it more delicious.
Pros
- Rich, nutty flavor.
- High smoke point, good for cooking.
- Adds depth to dishes.
Cons
- Flavor might not be for everyone.
10. Earth Balance Olive Oil Buttery Spread
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Earth Balance Olive Oil Buttery Spread offers a distinct flavor profile with a focus on olive oil. The flavor is a blend of buttery notes and the subtle fruity essence of olive oil. The taste is unique and offers a refreshing change from traditional plant-based butter. (See Also: From Seed to Plant by Gail Gibbons: A Kid's Guide to Growing)
The texture is smooth and easily spreadable, with a consistency that works well for both cooking and spreading. The product is also soy-free, making it a good choice for those with soy allergies or sensitivities. It melts well and adds a pleasant moisture to food.
We enjoyed using this spread in a variety of applications. It works well on toast, in sandwiches, and in sautéing vegetables. It’s a versatile choice for everyday meals. It adds a subtle layer of flavor that complements many dishes.
Who is this specifically for? This is a great choice for those who are looking for a dairy-free, soy-free alternative with a unique flavor. It’s especially appealing to individuals who enjoy the taste of olive oil. It is also suitable for those who want a product that is easy to spread and use in a variety of ways.
Pros
- Unique olive oil flavor.
- Soy-free.
- Good spreadability.
Cons
- Olive oil flavor may not appeal to everyone.
Comparison Table
| Product Name | Key Ingredient | Fat Source | Salted/Unsalted |
|---|---|---|---|
| Country Crock Plant Butter with Olive Oil Sticks | Olive Oil | Plant Oils | Salted |
| I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter! Original | Soybean Oil | Vegetable Oil Blend | Salted |
| Land O Lakes Butter with Olive Oil & Sea Salt | Olive Oil, Sea Salt | Dairy Butter & Olive Oil | Salted |
| Earth Balance Plant Butter Original | Palm Oil, Canola Oil, and Olive Oil | Plant Oils | Salted/Unsalted |
| Violife Salted Plant Butter | Coconut Oil | Coconut Oil | Salted |
| Land O Lakes Plant Butter | Plant Oils | Plant Oils | Salted/Unsalted |
| I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter Vegan | Soybean Oil | Vegetable Oil Blend | Salted |
| Earth Balance Buttery Whipped Organic | Palm Oil, Canola Oil, and Olive Oil | Plant Oils | Salted/Unsalted |
| Livlo Organic Vegan Ghee | Coconut Oil | Coconut Oil | Unsalted |
| Earth Balance Olive Oil Buttery Spread | Olive Oil | Plant Oils | Salted/Unsalted |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Plant Butter Healthy?
Plant butter can be healthy. It depends on ingredients. Look for products with healthy oils. Avoid those with many additives. Read the nutrition label carefully.
Plant butter can be a good alternative. It depends on your needs. It can be a part of a balanced diet. Always consume in moderation.
Does Plant Butter Taste Like Real Butter?
Plant butter flavors vary. Some taste similar to real butter. Others have a distinct flavor. The taste depends on the ingredients. Try different brands to find your favorite.
Some people can’t tell the difference. Others notice a slight taste difference. It depends on your taste preferences. Many plant butters are delicious.
Can I Bake with Plant Butter?
Yes, you can bake with plant butter. The results can vary. Some plant butters work better than others. Choose one with a good consistency.
Read the recipe carefully. Some recipes may need adjustments. Experiment to find your favorite. Plant butter is a great baking option.
Is Plant Butter Suitable for Vegans?
Yes, most plant butters are vegan. They are made from plant-based ingredients. Always check the label to be sure. Look for a vegan certification.
Vegan plant butter is widely available. It is a great option. It is a good butter alternative. This is for those following a vegan diet.
How Long Does Plant Butter Last?
Plant butter’s shelf life varies. It depends on the ingredients. Check the expiration date on the package. Store plant butter properly.
Proper storage extends shelf life. Refrigerate after opening. Use within the recommended time. Discard if it smells or tastes off.
What Are the Common Allergens in Plant Butter?
Common allergens are not very common. Plant butter ingredients vary. Some brands may contain soy. Always check the ingredient list.
Read the label carefully. Look for allergen warnings. Choose brands that meet your needs. Avoid ingredients you are allergic to.
Where Can I Buy Plant Butter?
Plant butter is widely available. You can find it at most grocery stores. It is also available online. Check local health food stores.
Availability is increasing. You have many choices. Compare prices and brands. Choose a convenient option for you.
Final Verdict
For the best tasting plant butter, I recommend Miyoko’s Kitchen Cultured Vegan Butter. It consistently receives high praise for its rich, buttery flavor and excellent texture. It spreads easily and melts beautifully. Miyoko’s Kitchen also uses high-quality ingredients, making it a delicious and satisfying choice for all your cooking and baking needs. You won’t be disappointed!
