Country Crock
Country Crock Calcium Vegetable Oil Spread
What it is
This is a plant-based spread made with a blend of vegetable oils, designed to offer a buttery flavor and texture. The spread is typically soft and easily spreadable right from the refrigerator, providing convenience for everyday use. It is a dairy-free alternative to butter and other traditional spreads.
How people cook with it
This versatile spread can be used in a variety of ways in the kitchen, both for cooking and for finishing dishes.
- Spreading on toast
- Baking cakes and cookies
- Sautéing vegetables
- Melting over cooked foods
Use this spread as a direct substitute for butter in most applications. It melts easily when heated, making it suitable for sautéing or pan-frying. For baking, it can be creamed with sugar for cakes and cookies, or used to bind ingredients. Its soft consistency also makes it ideal for spreading on bread, muffins, or pancakes. When a recipe calls for melted butter, this spread can be gently warmed until liquid. It adds richness and moisture to baked goods and helps create tender textures.
How it differs from similar foods
Unlike butter, which is derived from dairy cream, this spread is made from vegetable oils. This distinction means it contains no lactose and is suitable for those avoiding dairy. It is also formulated to provide added calcium, a nutrient not naturally present in butter. The texture and melting point can vary slightly from butter, affecting how it behaves in certain recipes.
Who it is for
Home cooks looking for a dairy-free alternative to butter or those who wish to add calcium to their meals.
How to keep the rest
Keep this spread refrigerated to maintain its texture and freshness. Once opened, ensure the container is tightly sealed to prevent it from drying out or absorbing odors from the refrigerator. It is best used before the date indicated on the packaging for optimal quality.