Butter

Dairy & Fatsstapletop 10

Churned cream containing about 80% fat, 15% water, and 5% milk solids.

Reviewed by CupOrGram Editorial TeamData methodology: NIST-derived density references + recipe testing notesMethodology

Properties

Density Index
0.91 g/cm3
1 Cup Weight
227g
Texture
Solid/Liquid
Category
Dairy
Top Substitute

Coconut Oil

Use 1:1 by weight

Similar solid/melted behaviour. Adds subtle coconut flavour. Works well in cookies and quick breads.

Conversions

cupsgrams
1/4 cups53.9 grams
1/3 cups71.1 grams
1/2 cups108 grams
1 cups216 grams
1.50 cups323 grams
2 cups431 grams
3 cups647 grams
4 cups862 grams
Density: 0.911 g/ml
Quick Convert

Density-accurate conversions for baking

grams
Science Note: Precision within +/-0.002g
Accuracy: +/-0.002gHow this is calculatedSource: NIST-DB-72

Recommended Tools & Pantry Picks for Butter

Optional shopping references for bakers who want to compare tools and pantry options related to butter.

Digital Kitchen Scale

Essential for cup-to-gram accuracy and repeatable bakes.

Shop scales

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Substitutions for Butter

Storage Tips

Refrigerate for 1-2 months. Freeze for up to 6 months. Keep wrapped to prevent odour absorption.

Baking Science

Creates flaky layers in pastry (solid fat between dough layers). The water turns to steam in the oven, creating lift. Milk solids contribute to browning and flavour.

Recipe Context

For laminated dough: temperature and exact fat mass impact layer definition.

For creaming methods: weight keeps butter-to-sugar balance stable.

For custards: tight dairy ratios reduce curdling risk.

Common Pitfalls

  • Switching brands without re-checking weight can change texture and bake time.
  • Using volume-only measurements for dense ingredients can overshoot recipe targets.
  • Butter and dairy temperature affects emulsion stability and spread.

Brand Variance & Measuring Method

Baseline reference: 1 cup butter = 227g. In real kitchens, a practical range is usually 213g-241g per cup (6% band).

Why this happens: temperature and fat phase (solid vs softened vs melted) change effective volume.

Explore Butter Further

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