How to Substitute Oleo for Cooking Oil in Cake Mixes

By: Deborah Lundin

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In an effort to satisfy a craving for cake, you take out the box of cake mix and read the recipe ingredients, only to realize you're out of oil. While you might consider this a large obstacle, oleo, more commonly known as margarine, is an easy substitute. Oleo, in fact, is made from vegetable oil and, with a little melting, gives you an almost identical substitution to oil.

Step 1

Preheat your oven as directed on the cake mix box. Measure out an amount of oleo equal to the amount of oil called for, plus an additional tablespoon or two to account for possible evaporation when melting, as oleo contains some water. Place the oleo in a microwavable-safe bowl.

Step 2

Microwave the oleo for 30 to 35 seconds, or until melted. Set the bowl aside until the oleo returns room temperature. Do not allow it to solidify.

Step 3

Place the cake mix into a mixing bowl and add additional ingredients as directed. When you come to the oil, add the same amount of oleo. Combine the ingredients and bake as directed.