Butter is yummy.  There are many things, like cornbread and banana bread that I eat just as a holder for the butter.  Don’t get me wrong, I like the breads too but there is something about a nice slather of butter that makes them that much better.  As we all know, butter is a dairy product and thus is now taboo.  Here is what we use in our house to make bread still good for something. 

First is a soy alternative.  Remember that I am not a fan of soy (here is why) but as long as you aren’t eating it by the tub, I think it will be okay.  We found Earth Balance spread at our regular grocery store with the butter.  Just make sure that you are grabbing the one that says vegan as some of their products do have dairy in them.  It comes in a tub like margarine.  Don’t be fooled by the regular margarine either though as most of it still has dairy products in it as well.  Earth Balance also comes in stick form for baking or the butter dish.  Spectrum Naturals also has a spread that we like.  It is a very soft spread even when refrigerated.  I found it at Fred Meyer in the natural foods refrigerated section.

Second is coconut oil.  I love coconut oil.  I buy it by the gallon online as it is much more economical that way.  It is an awesome substitute for butter in all cooking.  I use it when sauteing, frying, baking, and everywhere else.   Depending on where you live, your coconut oil may stay solid all year round.  If not, when using for things like streusel toppings or pastries, just put it in the refrigerator to solidify it before cutting it into your flour mixture.  You can use it just like butter because it has that same fatty consistency.  Feel free to slather it on your bread too if you run out of your vegan buttery spread.  I’m going to have to write a post about all the benefits of coconut oil.  I really like it and think you should too:)