Fat, Baking Ingredient | Vegan Diet (if palm/soy based non-animal fat) Vegetarian

Solid Shortening

Hydrogenated vegetable oil (generic) Allergens: Soy (often)
Solid Shortening

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Varies (e.g., Arecaceae for palm, Malvaceae for cottonseed)
  • Primary Cuisine Western, American
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Vegetable oils (e.g., Palm, Soybean, Cottonseed)

The Forktionary Angle

"The secret to ultimate flakiness and tenderness in baked goods."

Definition

A semi-solid fat, typically hydrogenated vegetable oil, prized for its ability to create flaky pastries and tender baked goods due to its high melting point.

Sensory Profile

TasteNeutral, Bland
TextureSmooth, Waxy, Solid (at room temp)
AromaNone
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Melting Point

92-120°F (33-49°C)

Smoke Point

360°F (182°C)

Water Content

0%

Nutrition Facts

Per 1 tbsp (13g)
Calories900 kcal
Total Fat100 g
Saturated Fat25 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein0 g
Total Carbohydrate0 g
Dietary Fiber0 g
Total Sugars0 g
Calcium0 mg
Iron0 mg
Potassium0 mg

Chef’s Secret

For extra flaky pastry, ensure your shortening is very cold and avoid overworking the dough, which develops gluten and toughens the crust.

Substitutions

Best Match

Unsalted Butter

1:1 (with minor liquid adjustment)

Provides flavor and richness, but has lower melting point and water content, affecting flakiness.

Margarine (stick)

1:1

Similar consistency and baking performance to shortening, often vegan, but may contain more water.

Lard

1:1

Traditional fat for flaky pie crusts and frying, adds savory notes, not vegetarian/vegan.

Coconut Oil (refined, solid)

1:1

Vegan option, solid at room temperature, but melts faster, less plastic, and may impart coconut flavor (if unrefined).

Buying Guide

Opt for trans-fat free versions. Store in a cool, dark pantry.

Flavor Pairings

Pie crusts biscuits fried chicken donuts cookies cakes.

Recipes Using Solid Shortening

Baker's Frosting image 122
North American Easy Low In Something Equipment

Baker's Frosting

Unlock the secret to bakery-perfect frosting! This recipe reveals how to create a luscious, creamy frosting that's unbelievably easy to make. Get ready to impress with this decadent topping for cakes, cupcakes, and more! Learn the professional techniques for a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

See Complete Recipe