Are you an avid baker looking for the perfect margarine to enhance your baking creations? Look no further! In this article, we have compiled a list of the 12 best margarines for baking that have been thoroughly tested and reviewed. Whether you’re making cookies, cakes, or bread, finding the right margarine can make a significant difference in the taste and texture of your baked goods. So, let’s dive in and explore these top margarine options that will elevate your baking game to new heights!
Land O Lakes
Taste: Land O Lakes margarine offers a deliciously rich and creamy taste, making it a popular choice for baking enthusiasts. Its subtle buttery flavor adds a delectable touch to baked goods, such as cookies, cakes, and pastries. Whether you’re whipping up a batch of chocolate chip cookies or preparing a flaky pie crust, Land O Lakes margarine delivers a satisfying taste that will leave your taste buds craving for more.
Description: Land O Lakes margarine boasts a smooth and spreadable texture, making it easy to incorporate into your baking recipes. It blends seamlessly with other ingredients, ensuring a uniform distribution throughout the dough or batter. This margarine is also great for spreading on toast or using as a butter substitute in everyday cooking. It comes in sticks, making measuring and portioning convenient.
Personal opinion: As an avid baker, Land O Lakes margarine has become a staple in my kitchen. Its exceptional taste and versatility make it a reliable choice for all my baking needs. I appreciate the rich flavor it imparts to my treats, elevating them to another level of deliciousness. Land O Lakes margarine consistently delivers excellent results, and its smooth texture makes it a breeze to work with. I highly recommend giving it a try if you’re looking to enhance the flavor of your baked goods.
Price: Check it on Amazon.
Imperial
Taste: Imperial margarine offers a delightful taste that closely resembles that of traditional butter. It has a creamy and slightly salty flavor that complements a wide range of baked goods. Whether you’re making flaky pie crusts or buttery biscuits, Imperial margarine adds a delectable touch that will please your palate. Its well-balanced taste makes it a favorite among home bakers and professionals alike.
Description: Imperial margarine is known for its easy spreading consistency, allowing you to effortlessly incorporate it into your baking recipes. It blends smoothly with other ingredients, ensuring an even distribution of flavor. This margarine is also suitable for everyday use, whether you want to spread it on your morning toast or melt it for sautéing vegetables. It comes in convenient tubs, making it simple to measure out the desired amount.
Personal opinion: When it comes to baking, Imperial margarine has never disappointed me. Its distinct buttery taste elevates my baked goods, creating a delightful treat for everyone to enjoy. The ease of spreading and incorporating this margarine into my recipes has made it a go-to choice in my kitchen. I love how it adds a rich flavor to my creations, making them truly irresistible. If you’re searching for a margarine that provides the taste of butter with the convenience of a spread, I highly recommend giving Imperial a try.
Price: Check it on Amazon.
I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter!
Taste: I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter! margarine offers a unique taste that aims to mimic the flavor of real butter. It has a smooth and creamy texture with a hint of saltiness. While it may not replicate the exact taste of butter, it still provides a pleasant and satisfying flavor to baked goods. Whether you’re baking cookies or muffins, I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter! adds a distinct taste that will have you questioning if it’s truly not butter.
Description: I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter! margarine is designed to be a butter substitute, offering a spreadable consistency that is easy to work with. It blends well with other ingredients, ensuring an even distribution of flavor throughout your recipes. This margarine is also suitable for spreading on bread or using in everyday cooking. It comes in tubs, making it convenient to measure out the desired amount for your baking endeavors.
Personal opinion: I have to admit, I was skeptical about I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter! margarine at first. However, after giving it a try in my baking experiments, I was pleasantly surprised. While it doesn’t perfectly replicate the taste of butter, it still provides a delicious flavor that enhances the overall outcome of my baked goods. I appreciate the convenience of its spreadable consistency and its versatility in various recipes. If you’re looking for a margarine that offers a unique taste profile and is suitable for both baking and everyday use, I recommend giving I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter! a chance.
Price: Check it on Amazon.
Country Crock
Taste: Country Crock margarine delivers a distinct and rich buttery taste that closely resembles the real deal. It has a creamy and smooth flavor that enhances the deliciousness of your baked treats. Whether you’re making scones or pie crusts, Country Crock adds a delightful buttery note that will have you coming back for seconds. Its authentic taste makes it a popular choice among baking enthusiasts.
Description: Country Crock margarine is known for its soft and spreadable consistency, making it easy to incorporate into your baking recipes. It blends effortlessly with other ingredients, ensuring a seamless integration of flavors. This margarine is also great for everyday use, such as spreading on toast or melting for sautéing vegetables. It is available in tubs, allowing for convenient measurement and usage.
Personal opinion: Country Crock margarine has earned a permanent spot in my kitchen. Its remarkable buttery taste never fails to impress, and it elevates my baked goods to new heights of flavor. I love how easily it spreads and mixes into my recipes, making the baking process a breeze. The richness and creaminess it brings to my treats are simply unmatched. If you’re in search of a margarine that delivers an authentic buttery taste, Country Crock is an excellent choice that won’t disappoint.
Price: Check it on Amazon.
Fleischmanns
Taste: Fleischmanns margarine offers a subtle and mild taste that works well in a variety of baking recipes. It has a creamy and slightly buttery flavor that adds a touch of richness to your baked goods. While it may not have an overpowering taste, Fleischmanns margarine provides a pleasant background flavor that allows the other ingredients to shine. Whether you’re making bread or cookies, this margarine enhances the overall taste without overpowering the recipe.
Description: Fleischmanns margarine is known for its firm yet spreadable consistency, making it easy to work with in baking. It blends smoothly with other ingredients, ensuring an even distribution of flavor throughout your recipes. This margarine is also suitable for everyday use, such as spreading on toast or melting for cooking purposes. It is available in sticks, which makes measuring and portioning convenient.
Personal opinion: Fleischmanns margarine has been a reliable choice in my baking endeavors. Its subtle taste allows the other flavors to shine while still providing a hint of creaminess. I appreciate its firm texture, as it makes it easy to incorporate into my recipes without causing any mess. Fleischmanns margarine has consistently delivered excellent results, and I enjoy its versatility for both baking and everyday use. If you’re looking for a margarine that enhances the flavor of your baked goods without overpowering them, Fleischmanns is a great option to consider.
Price: Check it on Amazon.
Melt
Taste: Melt margarine offers a unique taste that combines the richness of butter with a hint of sweetness. It has a creamy and smooth flavor that adds a delightful touch to your baked treats. Whether you’re making muffins or pastries, Melt margarine infuses a distinct and enjoyable taste that will have you savoring every bite. Its unique flavor profile sets it apart from other margarine brands.
Description: Melt margarine is designed to have a soft and spreadable consistency, making it easy to incorporate into your baking recipes. It blends seamlessly with other ingredients, ensuring a homogeneous distribution of flavor. This margarine is also suitable for spreading on toast or using in everyday cooking. It is available in tubs, providing convenience in measuring and using the desired amount.
Personal opinion: Melt margarine has become a favorite in my baking adventures due to its unique and delicious taste. The combination of buttery richness and subtle sweetness adds an extra layer of flavor to my creations. I find the soft and spreadable consistency of Melt margarine to be extremely convenient, allowing for effortless mixing and spreading. If you’re looking to add a touch of sweetness and richness to your baked goods, Melt margarine is an excellent choice that will elevate your recipes to new heights.
Price: Check it on Amazon.
Earth Balance
Taste: Earth Balance margarine offers a unique and plant-based taste that caters to individuals with dietary preferences or restrictions. It has a smooth and slightly nutty flavor that adds a distinctive touch to your baked goods. Whether you’re making vegan cookies or dairy-free cakes, Earth Balance margarine provides a satisfying taste that will please your palate. Its plant-based profile makes it a popular choice among those seeking alternative options.
Description: Earth Balance margarine is designed to have a creamy and spreadable consistency, making it easy to incorporate into your baking recipes. It blends well with other ingredients, ensuring an even distribution of flavor. This margarine is also suitable for everyday use, such as spreading on toast or using in cooking. It comes in tubs, making it convenient to measure out the desired amount.
Personal opinion: Earth Balance margarine has become a go-to choice in my kitchen, especially when catering to dietary preferences or restrictions. Its unique plant-based taste adds a delightful twist to my baked goods, allowing me to create treats that everyone can enjoy. I appreciate the ease of spreading and incorporating Earth Balance into my recipes, making it a versatile option for both baking and everyday use. If you’re looking for a margarine that aligns with your plant-based lifestyle or dietary needs, Earth Balance is an excellent choice that delivers on taste and convenience.
Price: Check it on Amazon.
Buckeye Flex
Taste: Buckeye Flex margarine offers a rich and buttery taste that closely resembles traditional butter. It has a creamy and smooth flavor that adds a luscious touch to your baked treats. Whether you’re making flaky pastries or buttery cakes, Buckeye Flex margarine provides a delicious taste that will satisfy your cravings. Its butter-like profile makes it a popular choice among home bakers.
Description: Buckeye Flex margarine is known for its firm yet spreadable consistency, making it easy to work with in baking. It blends seamlessly with other ingredients, ensuring an even distribution of flavor throughout your recipes. This margarine is also suitable for spreading on toast or using in everyday cooking. It is available in sticks, which makes measuring and portioning convenient.
Personal opinion: Buckeye Flex margarine has earned a special place in my baking routine due to its exceptional buttery taste. It adds a rich and indulgent flavor to my baked goods, making them irresistible. I find the firm yet spreadable consistency of Buckeye Flex margarine to be perfect for incorporating into my recipes. It provides a reliable and delicious alternative to traditional butter, and I highly recommend giving it a try if you’re looking for a margarine that offers the taste and versatility of butter in your baking endeavors.
Price: Check it on Amazon.
Parkay Vegetable Oil Sticks
Taste: Parkay Vegetable Oil Sticks margarine offers a neutral and mild taste that works well in a variety of baking recipes. It has a smooth and creamy flavor that allows the other ingredients to shine. Whether you’re making bread or pastries, Parkay Vegetable Oil Sticks margarine adds a subtle richness without overpowering the flavors of your baked goods. Its neutral taste makes it a versatile choice for various recipes.
Description: Parkay Vegetable Oil Sticks margarine is designed to have a firm yet spreadable consistency, making it easy to incorporate into your baking recipes. It blends seamlessly with other ingredients, ensuring an even distribution of flavor. This margarine is also suitable for spreading on toast or using in everyday cooking. It comes in sticks, which provides convenience in measuring and portioning.
Personal opinion: Parkay Vegetable Oil Sticks margarine has become a reliable choice in my baking endeavors. Its mild taste allows the flavors of my baked goods to shine, while still providing a touch of creaminess. I appreciate the firm texture of this margarine, as it makes it easy to work with and incorporate into my recipes. Parkay Vegetable Oil Sticks margarine consistently delivers excellent results and has become a staple in my baking pantry. If you’re looking for a versatile and reliable margarine for your baking needs, I recommend giving Parkay Vegetable Oil Sticks a try.
Price: Check it on Amazon.
Blue Bonnet
Taste: Blue Bonnet margarine offers a classic and buttery taste that closely resembles traditional butter. It has a rich and creamy flavor that adds a delightful touch to your baked treats. Whether you’re making cookies or cakes, Blue Bonnet margarine provides a satisfying taste that will please your taste buds. Its buttery profile makes it a popular choice among home bakers.
Description: Blue Bonnet margarine is known for its soft and spreadable consistency, making it easy to incorporate into your baking recipes. It blends smoothly with other ingredients, ensuring an even distribution of flavor throughout your recipes. This margarine is also suitable for spreading on toast or using in everyday cooking. It is available in tubs, providing convenience in measuring and usage.
Personal opinion: Blue Bonnet margarine has been a trusted companion in my baking adventures. Its rich and buttery taste adds a delightful indulgence to my baked goods, making them irresistible. I find the soft and spreadable consistency of Blue Bonnet margarine to be convenient for mixing into my recipes. It consistently delivers a classic flavor that brings a touch of nostalgia to my baking creations. If you’re looking for a margarine that closely mimics the taste of traditional butter, Blue Bonnet is a fantastic option that will elevate your baked goods to new heights of deliciousness.
Price: Check it on Amazon.
Spectrum Naturals
Taste: Spectrum Naturals margarine offers a unique and natural taste that caters to individuals seeking a healthier alternative. It has a subtle and light flavor that allows the other ingredients in your baked goods to shine. Whether you’re making bread or muffins, Spectrum Naturals margarine adds a gentle touch of richness without overpowering the overall taste. Its natural taste profile makes it a popular choice among health-conscious bakers.
Description: Spectrum Naturals margarine is designed to have a firm yet spreadable consistency, making it easy to work with in baking. It blends seamlessly with other ingredients, ensuring an even distribution of flavor. This margarine is also suitable for spreading on toast or using in everyday cooking. It is made from high-quality oils and is free from hydrogenated fats, providing a healthier option for your baking needs.
Personal opinion: Spectrum Naturals margarine has become a staple in my baking journey, especially when I want to opt for a healthier choice. Its light and natural taste perfectly complements my recipes without overpowering them. I appreciate the firm texture of this margarine, as it makes it easy to incorporate into my baking without any hassle. Spectrum Naturals margarine offers a guilt-free option that aligns with my commitment to a healthier lifestyle. If you’re looking for a margarine that combines taste and health benefits, Spectrum Naturals is an excellent choice to consider.
Price: Check it on Amazon.
Nutiva Organic Shortening
Taste: Nutiva Organic Shortening offers a neutral taste that works well in a variety of baking recipes. It has a smooth and creamy flavor that adds a delicate richness to your baked goods. Whether you’re making pie crusts or cookies, Nutiva Organic Shortening provides a pleasant background taste that allows the flavors of other ingredients to shine. Its neutral taste profile makes it a versatile choice for various baking endeavors.
Description: Nutiva Organic Shortening is designed to have a firm texture, making it easy to incorporate into your baking recipes. It blends effortlessly with other ingredients, ensuring an even distribution of flavor throughout your recipes. This shortening is also suitable for use in other cooking applications. It is made from organic and sustainably sourced ingredients, providing a more conscious option for your baking needs.
Personal opinion: Nutiva Organic Shortening has become a reliable companion in my baking adventures. Its neutral taste allows the flavors of my baked goods to take center stage while still providing a subtle richness. I find the firm texture of Nutiva Organic Shortening to be perfect for creating flaky and tender pie crusts. The fact that it is made from organic ingredients and produced sustainably adds an extra level of appeal. If you’re looking for a versatile shortening that delivers on both taste and conscious sourcing, Nutiva Organic Shortening is an excellent choice for your baking endeavors.
Price: Check it on Amazon.
Final Thoughts
After exploring and reviewing these twelve margarine options for baking, it’s clear that there are plenty of choices available to cater to different taste preferences, dietary needs, and baking requirements. Whether you’re looking for a traditional buttery taste, a plant-based alternative, or a healthier option, there is a margarine on this list that can meet your needs.
When it comes to taste, each margarine brings its own unique flavor profile to the table. From Land O Lakes and Blue Bonnet with their classic buttery tastes, to Earth Balance and Nutiva Organic Shortening offering plant-based and healthier alternatives, there is something for everyone. It’s important to consider how these flavors will complement your recipes and enhance the overall taste of your baked goods.
In terms of consistency and usability, the margarines on this list vary from firm sticks to soft spreads and tubs. The right consistency will depend on your baking preferences and the specific recipe you’re working with. Stick margarines like Imperial and Parkay Vegetable Oil Sticks are convenient for measuring and portioning, while tubs like Earth Balance and Blue Bonnet offer ease of spreading and measuring. Consider the consistency that works best for your baking needs.
Ultimately, the best margarine for baking will depend on your personal preferences, dietary restrictions, and the specific recipes you’re making. Whether you’re looking for a tried-and-true classic or an alternative option, there is a margarine on this list that can help you achieve delicious results in your baking endeavors. So go ahead, experiment, and find the perfect margarine that will elevate your baked goods and bring joy to your taste buds. Happy baking!
FAQ
Q: Can I substitute margarine for butter in baking recipes?
A: Yes, margarine can generally be used as a substitute for butter in baking recipes. However, keep in mind that margarine contains more water content than butter, which can affect the texture and spread of your baked goods. It’s important to choose a margarine with a similar fat content to butter to ensure proper results. Additionally, consider the flavor profile of the margarine as it may impart a different taste to your baked goods.
Q: Can I use margarine instead of shortening in baking recipes?
A: Yes, margarine can be used as a substitute for shortening in baking recipes. Both margarine and shortening are fats, but they have slightly different properties. Margarine contains water, which can affect the texture and spread of your baked goods. Shortening, on the other hand, is 100% fat and can provide a tender and flaky texture. If you choose to substitute margarine for shortening, keep in mind that the texture and flavor of your baked goods may be slightly different.
Q: Are all margarines suitable for vegan baking?
A: Not all margarines are suitable for vegan baking. Some margarines may contain dairy or animal-derived ingredients, so it’s important to read the labels carefully. If you follow a vegan lifestyle, look for margarines that are explicitly labeled as vegan or plant-based. These options are typically made without any animal-derived ingredients and can be used in vegan baking recipes.
Q: Can I use margarine for frosting or icing?
A: Yes, margarine can be used for frosting or icing. It can provide a smooth and spreadable consistency, making it suitable for creating delicious frostings for cakes, cupcakes, and other treats. When using margarine in frosting recipes, ensure that it is at room temperature for easier mixing and smooth texture. However, keep in mind that the flavor of the margarine may influence the overall taste of the frosting, so choose a margarine with a taste that complements your desired flavor profile.
Q: Can I freeze margarine for longer storage?
A: Yes, margarine can be frozen for longer storage. If you have excess margarine or want to stock up, you can wrap it tightly in freezer-safe packaging and store it in the freezer. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw the margarine in the refrigerator. However, keep in mind that freezing and thawing may affect the texture of the margarine, so it’s best to use it for cooking or baking purposes rather than for spreading on toast or bread.
Q: Are there any specific storage requirements for margarine?
A: Margarine should be stored in a cool and dry place, away from direct heat or sunlight. It is best kept in its original packaging or in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Some margarines may require refrigeration, especially if they are made with certain ingredients or have a higher water content. Always check the label for specific storage instructions and follow them accordingly to ensure the quality and shelf life of your margarine.