How Much Coconut Oil to Substitute for Olive Oil
Works for baking, sauteing, and frying. Coconut Oil keeps a similar flavor profile to Olive Oil.
How much coconut oil equals one Olive Oil?
Use 1 cup Coconut Oil per cup of Olive Oil
Health notes
Compared with Olive Oil, Coconut Oil has: more saturated fat (82.5g vs 13.8g per 100g in Olive Oil).
Using coconut oil as an olive oil substitute in baking
1:1 swap works. Refined coconut oil is neutral; virgin adds coconut flavor. Measure by weight for consistency.
Other cooking methods
- Sauteing
1:1; lower smoke point (177C) so watch heat. Works well for Asian and tropical dishes.
- Frying
1:1; crisps well but lower smoke point than olive oil. Monitor temperature closely.
- Raw Cold
1:1 in dressings and dips. Refined oil stays liquid; virgin oil sets when cold.
- Drinks
1:1 in smoothies and coffee. Refined oil blends smoothly; virgin adds coconut taste.
Methods to avoid (3)
- Slow Cook
Not recommended: coconut oil's low smoke point breaks down in long, moist heat.
- Grilling
Not recommended: too low a smoke point for direct heat and high temperatures.
- Steaming
Not recommended: oil won't emulsify in steam.
FAQ
- Can I substitute coconut oil for Olive Oil in baking?
Yes. 1:1 swap works. Refined coconut oil is neutral; virgin adds coconut flavor. Measure by weight for consistency. Not recommended: coconut oil's low smoke point breaks down in long, moist heat.
- How much coconut oil to use as an olive oil substitute?
Virgin coconut oil adds coconut aroma; use refined for neutral swap. No adjustment needed.
- How does the flavor change when substituting Coconut Oil for Olive Oil?
Coconut oil keeps a similar flavor profile to olive oil.
- How does texture change when substituting Coconut Oil for Olive Oil?
Coconut oil tender, moist crumb in baked goods. Crisps exteriors when frying. Solid at cool room temperature; measure by weight.
- What else should I know about substituting Coconut Oil for Olive Oil?
For sauteing, frying, and baking, use 1:1 coconut oil. Expect tender, moist results with coconut aroma if using virgin oil. Skip slow cooking and grilling - smoke point too low. Refined coconut oil is neutral; virgin adds distinct coconut flavor. Choose based on whether you want that character in your dish.
- What still works when substituting Coconut Oil for Olive Oil?
Coconut oil still works as a fat and flavor carrier.
- What won't work when substituting Coconut Oil for Olive Oil?
Coconut oil won't work as a emulsifier.
- How well does Coconut Oil match Olive Oil?
Coconut oil is good on structure, okay on heat, and okay on flavor.
- How does nutrition compare per 100g when substituting Coconut Oil for Olive Oil?
Coconut oil has about x6 more sat. fat. Overall, calories, fat, and protein are similar.
- How do the flavor notes shift when substituting Coconut Oil for Olive Oil?
The flavor shifts toward more sweet, less acidic, and less bitter notes.