Substitute for shortening

Shortening is also called vegetable shortening. A common brand name is Crisco vegetable shortening.  Shortening is shelf-stable without refrigeration, contains less saturated fat however usually contains a large amount of trans-fats which research is showing to be very unhealthy. The heating in the manufacturing process changes creates the trans-fats.

Substitutes for shortening

Butter

1 cup + 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter = 1 cup vegetable shortening

Butter is much better tasting than vegetable shortening but is more expensive, contains cholesterol and a higher level of saturated fat. Using butter instead of vegetable shortening will make cookies less crunchy and bread crusts more crispy.

Margarine

1 cup + 2 tablespoons margarine

Margarine is better tasting than shortening but more expensive although it is less expensive than butter. Using margarine instead of vegetable shortening will make cookies less crunchy and bread crusts tougher.

Lard

1 cup less (minus) 2 tablespoons lard = 1 cup vegetable shortening

Lard contains cholesterol and has a higher level of saturated fat than vegetable shortening. Lard is famed for making the best (more flaky) pie crusts.