5 Best Cookie Recipes Without Butter Easy & Delicious
Table of Contents
Introduction
Craving warm, chewy cookies but just realized you’re out of butter? Or maybe you’re looking for lighter, dairy-free alternatives that still taste incredible? Don’t worry—you can still bake irresistible cookies without a single stick of butter. In fact, some of the most flavorful, soft, and crowd-pleasing treats come from simple cookie recipes without butter.
This guide is designed to help both beginners and experienced bakers discover just how versatile butter-free cookies can be. Whether you’re searching for classic chocolate chip cookies made with oil, delicate sugar cookies, or even vegan-friendly variations, you’ll find recipes here that deliver bakery-quality results with pantry staples you already have at home.
Beyond the recipes, we’ll also cover why skipping butter doesn’t mean sacrificing taste or texture. You’ll learn which oils and substitutes work best, how to adjust your baking process, and the little tips that make a big difference. By the end, you’ll have five easy, delicious, and reliable no-butter cookie recipes that prove anyone can bake perfect cookies—without the butter and without the stress.
Why Make Cookies Without Butter?
Many bakers wonder if it’s really possible to enjoy soft, chewy, and flavorful cookies without using butter. The answer is a resounding yes. In fact, there are plenty of reasons why choosing cookie recipes without butter can be just as satisfying—if not more rewarding—than traditional methods.
Health and dietary benefits: Butter adds richness, but it also comes with saturated fats and dairy. By trying no-butter cookies, you can easily reduce cholesterol, make your treats dairy-free, and even adapt them for vegan lifestyles. Oils such as olive, coconut, or vegetable oil often provide healthier fats while still delivering excellent taste.
Cost savings and convenience: Butter is not always available, and in many regions it can be expensive. Using pantry staples like oil makes cookies without butter more budget-friendly and ensures you never have to run to the store just to bake a batch.
Taste and texture differences: Many people are surprised that oil-based cookies spread evenly, stay moist longer, and create a tender bite. While the flavor profile may be slightly different, it often enhances the cookie by making it softer and chewier. Some bakers even prefer the consistency of no-butter cookie recipes because the results are lighter and stay fresh for days.
In short, baking cookies without butter isn’t just a backup plan—it’s a smart choice for healthier, easier, and equally delicious homemade treats.
Essential Tips for Perfect Butter-Free Cookies
Switching from butter to oil or other substitutes may feel tricky at first, but with the right techniques, your no-butter cookies will turn out soft, chewy, and flavorful every time. Here are essential tips that every baker should know before trying cookie recipes without butter.
Choose the right oil: Not all oils behave the same way in baking. Neutral oils like vegetable, canola, or sunflower work best for classic flavors. Coconut oil adds a subtle sweetness, while olive oil creates a slightly richer, more sophisticated taste. Experimenting with these options will help you discover which one you prefer in your cookies without butter.
Measure carefully: Oil is 100% fat, while butter contains water. This difference means you should reduce the amount of oil slightly when replacing butter. A general rule is to use about ¾ cup of oil for every 1 cup of butter a recipe calls for.
Mind the texture: Oil makes dough softer and sometimes stickier. To prevent spreading, chill the dough for at least 20–30 minutes before baking. This simple step ensures your no-butter cookies hold their shape and bake evenly.
Enhance the flavor: Because butter adds richness, consider boosting taste with vanilla extract, brown sugar, or spices like cinnamon. These additions balance the flavor and make your cookie recipes without butter truly irresistible.
By following these tips, you’ll master the art of butter-free baking and consistently enjoy delicious results.
5 Best Cookie Recipes Without Butter (Easy & Delicious)
1. No-Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
Everyone loves a classic chocolate chip cookie, and this butter-free version doesn’t disappoint. Using vegetable oil instead of butter creates a chewy texture while keeping the cookies moist for days. To make them, mix sugar, brown sugar, oil, eggs, vanilla, flour, baking soda, and plenty of chocolate chips. Chill the dough before baking for best results. These no-butter cookies spread evenly and taste just as indulgent as traditional ones.
2. Sugar Cookies Without Butter
If you prefer light, sweet cookies that hold their shape, sugar cookies made with oil are perfect. This recipe combines oil, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, flour, and baking powder for a dough that’s easy to roll and cut into fun shapes. Bake until lightly golden and decorate with frosting or sprinkles. Among all cookie recipes without butter, sugar cookies stand out for holidays, birthdays, and everyday treats.
3. Oatmeal Cookies Made With Oil
For a wholesome twist, oatmeal cookies without butter are hearty, chewy, and packed with flavor. Replace butter with canola or coconut oil, then mix with oats, brown sugar, raisins, or chocolate chips. These cookies without butter are naturally soft and have a slightly nutty flavor from the oats. They’re also a healthier choice, making them perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
4. Vegan-Friendly No-Butter Cookies
Vegans don’t have to miss out on delicious cookies. This recipe swaps butter for coconut oil and uses flaxseed “eggs” or applesauce instead of traditional eggs. The result? Chewy, dairy-free, egg-free no-butter cookies with amazing flavor. You can add chocolate chips, dried fruit, or nuts for variety. It’s one of the best cookie recipes without butter for anyone following a plant-based diet.
5. Quick Peanut Butter Cookies Without Butter
Peanut butter lovers rejoice—these cookies require no butter at all. Made with peanut butter, sugar, eggs (or flax eggs for a vegan version), and a touch of oil, they come together in minutes. The natural fat from the peanut butter ensures rich flavor and a melt-in-your-mouth texture. If you’re short on time, this is the fastest and most satisfying cookie recipe without butter you’ll ever try.
Variations & Flavor Ideas
Once you’ve mastered the basic cookie recipes without butter, it’s time to experiment with flavors and textures. These no-butter cookies are incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize each batch to your taste.
- Add spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom can transform ordinary sugar or oatmeal cookies into aromatic treats.
- Incorporate nuts and seeds: Chopped almonds, walnuts, pecans, or sunflower seeds add crunch and a richer flavor.
- Mix different chocolates: Dark, white, milk, or vegan chocolate chips can create layered flavor profiles.
- Include dried fruits: Raisins, cranberries, or chopped dates boost natural sweetness and fiber content.
- Creative combinations: Try coconut + chocolate chips, peanut butter + oats, or pumpkin spice variations for seasonal treats.
By experimenting with these ideas, your cookies without butter can be tailored for every occasion, from family snacks to festive celebrations. These variations keep your baking exciting while maintaining the soft, chewy texture that makes cookie recipes without butter irresistible
Ingredients for the Perfect Cookie Recipe Without Butter
| Ingredient | US Cups | Grams | Notes & Substitutions |
|---|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 ¼ cups | 280 g | Can swap ½ with whole wheat for fiber |
| Baking soda | 1 tsp | 6 g | Essential for rise |
| Salt | ½ tsp | 3 g | Balances sweetness |
| White sugar | ½ cup | 100 g | Can replace with coconut sugar |
| Brown sugar (packed) | ¾ cup | 150 g | Adds moisture & chewiness |
| Vegetable oil | ½ cup | 120 ml | Replace with coconut oil for subtle flavor or olive oil for richness |
| Large eggs | 2 | ~100 g | Vegan swap: 2 flax eggs (2 tbsp flaxseed + 6 tbsp water) |
| Vanilla extract | 2 tsp | 10 ml | Optional: almond extract for twist |
| Chocolate chips | 1 ½ cups | 260 g | Mix dark, milk, or vegan chips |
| Optional add-ins | up to 1 cup | 100 g | Oats, chopped nuts, dried fruit, or seeds |
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Cookie Recipe Without Butter
Before you start:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Bring the eggs to room temperature for about 10–15 minutes. This helps the dough mix more evenly.
- Weigh your ingredients if possible — using grams ensures accuracy and consistency.
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together 280 g (2¼ cups) all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon salt. Set aside.
Step 2: Combine Sugar and Oil
In a separate mixing bowl, add 100 g (½ cup) white sugar and 150 g (¾ cup) brown sugar. Pour in 120 ml (½ cup) vegetable oil. Mix with a hand whisk or electric mixer until the sugar is well incorporated and the mixture looks smooth and glossy.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Flavor
Beat in 2 large eggs, one at a time, followed by 2 teaspoons vanilla extract. Mix for 20–30 seconds after each egg to ensure the batter is smooth and cohesive.
Step 4: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour mixture into the wet ingredients in two parts. Mix on low speed or stir gently until just combined. Avoid over-mixing, which can make no-butter cookies tough.
Step 5: Fold in Chocolate and Add-ins
Stir in 260 g (1½ cups) chocolate chips with a wooden spoon or spatula. If desired, fold in up to 100 g (1 cup) of optional add-ins such as chopped nuts, oats, or dried fruit.
Step 6: Chill the Dough
Cover the dough and refrigerate it for 30–60 minutes. This is a crucial step when making cookies without butter, as oil-based dough tends to be softer. Chilling prevents excessive spreading and creates thicker, chewier cookies.
Step 7: Shape the Cookies
Scoop dough balls using a 1½-tablespoon cookie scoop (or a spoon), placing about 24 portions evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet. Leave at least 2 inches (5 cm) between cookies.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Bake on the middle rack for 9–12 minutes, depending on your preferred texture:
- Soft and chewy: 9–10 minutes (edges golden, centers slightly underbaked).
- Crispier: 11–12 minutes (edges fully golden, centers firm).
Pro tip: Remove the cookies while the centers still look soft; they will continue to set on the hot baking sheet.
Step 9: Cool and Enjoy
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Serve warm for gooey centers or store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Baking Cookies Without Butter
Even experienced bakers can make mistakes when trying cookie recipes without butter. Avoid these common pitfalls to ensure perfect no-butter cookies every time:
Skipping Add-ins or Flavor Boosts: While optional, adding vanilla, spices, or chocolate ensures your cookie recipes without butter are flavorful and not bland.
Skipping the Dough Chill: Unlike butter-based dough, oil-based dough spreads more easily. Failing to chill your cookies without butter can result in flat, overly thin cookies.
Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too long develops gluten, which makes no-butter cookies tough. Stir only until the dry ingredients are incorporated.
Using the Wrong Oil: Not all oils behave the same. Avoid strongly flavored oils like sesame or vegetable oils with strong odors that can overpower the cookie flavor. Stick to neutral oils or coconut/olive for intentional flavor.
Incorrect Oven Temperature: Baking at too high a temperature can brown edges before the centers are cooked. Use accurate oven settings and consider an oven thermometer.
Neglecting Proper Measurement: Inaccurate measurement of flour, sugar, or oil can dramatically affect the texture. Use grams or a reliable measuring cup for consistent results.
Overloading the Cookie Sheet: Placing too many no-butter cookies close together causes them to merge and lose shape. Space them at least 2 inches (5 cm) apart.
Tips & Tricks for the Best Cookie Recipes Without Butter
Baking cookie recipes without butter can be a game-changer if you follow these expert tips. Many competitors give basic instructions, but these tricks ensure perfect results every time.
1. Chill Your Dough
Always refrigerate your no-butter cookie dough for at least 30–60 minutes. Oil-based dough spreads more than butter-based dough, and chilling helps maintain shape and thickness.
2. Choose the Right Oil
Not all oils behave the same way. Neutral oils like vegetable or canola provide consistent results, while coconut oil adds slight sweetness and a tender texture. Olive oil works for a richer flavor in gourmet cookies.
3. Adjust Sugar for Chewiness
Using a combination of brown and white sugar gives your cookies without butter optimal chewiness. Brown sugar retains moisture, while white sugar helps with structure and slight crispiness on the edges.
4. Don’t Overmix the Dough
Overmixing develops gluten, which can make no-butter cookies tough. Stir until the flour is just incorporated, then fold in chocolate chips or add-ins.
5. Baking Sheet Matters
Use parchment paper or silicone mats. Avoid greasing the sheet — too much oil can make your cookies flatten excessively.
6. Baking Time Precision
Because cookie recipes without butter can brown faster on the edges, check cookies a minute or two before the recommended time. Remove when centers are still slightly soft for a chewy result.
7. Experiment with Add-ins
Oats, nuts, dried fruits, or seeds enhance flavor and texture. No-butter cookies are versatile — adjusting add-ins can create endless variations without affecting dough stability.
8. Store Properly
Keep your baked cookies without butter in an airtight container. For extra softness, add a slice of bread to the container — it absorbs excess air and keeps cookies chewy.
Serving & Presentation for Cookie Recipes Without Butter
Presentation can elevate even a simple cookie recipe no butter into a delightful treat. Here are expert tips for serving and showcasing your no-butter cookies:
1. Serve Warm for Maximum Flavor
Nothing beats a freshly baked cookie without butter served warm. The chocolate chips are melty, and the cookie is soft and chewy. Consider serving straight from the baking sheet or cooling slightly on a wire rack.
2. Pair with Beverages
No-butter cookies pair perfectly with milk, coffee, hot chocolate, or plant-based milk alternatives like almond or oat milk. A milk dunk enhances the soft, chewy texture.
3. Stack or Arrange Creatively
Arrange cookies on a platter in a layered stack, or in a circular pattern for a visually appealing presentation. You can also serve them individually in cupcake liners for portion control and a professional look.
4. Add Toppings Before Serving
Enhance your cookie recipes without butter with a light dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of melted chocolate, or a sprinkle of sea salt. These finishing touches make them look bakery-quality.
5. Gift-Worthy Packaging
If giving as a gift, place no-butter cookies in decorative boxes or jars with parchment paper separators. Tie with a ribbon and include a small card with the cookie type — this creates a premium, homemade impression.
6. Storage for Serving Later
Store cooled cookies without butter in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To revive softness, warm in the oven for 3–5 minutes before serving.
How to Store Your No-Butter Cookies
Proper storage is key to keeping your cookies without butter fresh, soft, and flavorful for days. Follow these expert tips:
1. Cool Completely Before Storing
Allow your no-butter cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before placing them in a container. Storing warm cookies traps moisture and can make them soggy.
2. Use an Airtight Container
Place cooled cookies without butter in an airtight container. This prevents them from drying out and preserves their soft, chewy texture.
3. Layering and Separation
If stacking cookies, separate layers with parchment paper or wax paper. This avoids sticking and ensures they maintain their shape.
4. Add a Moisture Retainer
For extra softness, include a slice of bread or a few apple slices in the container. They absorb excess air and help your no-butter cookies stay tender.
5. Room Temperature Storage
Stored at room temperature, cookie recipes without butter stay fresh for up to 5 days. Keep them away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
6. Freezing for Longer Storage
For longer preservation, freeze cookies without butter in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the oven to revive softness.
Nutrition Information for Cookie Recipe Without Butter
| Nutrient | Amount per Cookie | % Daily Value* | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal | 6% | Based on 24 cookies per batch |
| Total Fat | 6 g | 8% | From vegetable or coconut oil |
| Saturated Fat | 1 g | 5% | Lower than butter-based cookies |
| Cholesterol | 15 mg | 5% | Can use flax egg for vegan version |
| Sodium | 80 mg | 3% | From baking soda and salt |
| Total Carbohydrates | 16 g | 6% | Includes sugar + flour |
| Dietary Fiber | 1 g | 4% | Increases with oats or whole wheat flour |
| Sugars | 10 g | — | Includes white and brown sugar |
| Protein | 2 g | 4% | From eggs and optional nuts |
| Vitamin A | 0% | — | — |
| Calcium | 10 mg | 1% | — |
| Iron | 0.5 mg | 3% | — |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Cookies Without Butter
1. Can I make cookies without butter?
Yes! You can make delicious cookies without butter using vegetable oil, coconut oil, or other alternatives. These no-butter cookies can be just as soft, chewy, and flavorful as traditional butter-based cookies.
2. What is the best oil to use for cookie recipes without butter?
Neutral oils like vegetable or canola oil are ideal for consistent results. Coconut oil adds subtle sweetness and a tender texture, while olive oil provides a richer, more gourmet flavor.
3. Can I make vegan cookies without butter?
Absolutely! For vegan cookie recipes without butter, replace butter with oil and use flax eggs or applesauce instead of traditional eggs. These cookies remain soft, chewy, and fully plant-based.
4. Will cookies without butter taste different from traditional cookies?
Slightly, yes. Cookies without butter have a different texture and flavor profile. They tend to be slightly chewier and can be lighter, but with proper ratios and techniques, they can be just as tasty as classic cookies.
5. How do I prevent my no-butter cookies from spreading too much?
Chill your no-butter cookie dough for 30–60 minutes before baking. Also, use parchment paper or silicone baking mats and avoid overmixing. This helps maintain shape and thickness.
6. How should I store cookies without butter?
Store cooled cookies without butter in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months and thaw before serving.
Conclusion
Baking cookie recipes without butter proves that delicious, soft, and chewy cookies don’t require butter at all. With the right techniques, quality ingredients, and simple substitutions, you can create no-butter cookies that rival traditional recipes in taste, texture, and appearance.
From classic chocolate chip to sugar cookies, oatmeal, vegan options, and peanut butter varieties, these recipes show the versatility of baking without butter. Following our step-by-step instructions, expert tips, and storage advice ensures every batch comes out perfect, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker.
The beauty of cookies without butter lies in their flexibility — you can adjust oils, sugars, add-ins, and even make them vegan, all while keeping the cookies soft, chewy, and full of flavor. These recipes are ideal for any occasion: family snacks, holiday treats, or even gift-worthy homemade cookies.
So, don’t let the lack of butter stop you. Try these cookie recipes without butter today, experiment with your favorite add-ins, and enjoy a healthier, easier, and equally indulgent way to bake. Share your creations with friends and family, and discover that baking no-butter cookies can be just as fun, rewarding, and delicious as ever.