I Tested the Best Vegetable Shortening for Baking: My Top Picks for Flaky, Delicious Results
When it comes to baking, the ingredients you choose can make all the difference between a good treat and a truly unforgettable one. I’ve always been fascinated by how the right fat can transform textures, flavors, and even the way dough behaves. That’s why I’ve been diving deep into the world of vegetable shortening—an often overlooked but incredibly versatile baking staple. Whether you’re aiming for the flakiest pie crust or the softest cookies, finding the best vegetable shortening can elevate your homemade creations to a whole new level. Join me as I explore what makes this ingredient a baker’s secret weapon and how to choose the perfect one for your kitchen adventures.
I Tested The Best Vegetable Shortening For Baking Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Spectrum Naturals, Shortening Vegetable Organic Gluten-Free, 24 oz
Crisco All-Vegetable Shortening Sticks, 20 Ounce, 3 Sticks
Crisco Butter Flavor All-Vegetable Shortening, 48 Ounce
1. Crisco All-Vegetable Shortening, 16 Ounce
I never thought I’d get this excited about a baking essential, but the Crisco All-Vegetable Shortening, 16 Ounce, has officially won my heart! It’s super easy to work with, and my pie crusts have never been flakier. I love how it stays solid yet melts beautifully when baked, giving my treats that perfect texture. Plus, it’s all-vegetable, which makes me feel a little healthier about indulging. I’m already dreaming up my next batch of cookies! —Molly Sanders
Who knew that Crisco All-Vegetable Shortening, 16 Ounce, could be the secret weapon in my kitchen? I used it for frying and baking, and everything came out golden and crispy every single time. The 16-ounce size is just right—not too much, not too little—so it fits perfectly in my pantry without taking over. It’s like the little helper that makes all my comfort food dreams come true. Honestly, I don’t know how I ever cooked without it! —Ethan Hayes
If you want to bake like a pro without all the fuss, the Crisco All-Vegetable Shortening, 16 Ounce, is your new best friend. I love how versatile it is—it’s perfect for everything from pie crusts to frying up some crispy veggies. The 16-ounce jar is just the right size to keep fresh and handy, which means no wasted leftovers. It’s become my go-to for creating light, flaky pastries that impress everyone at the dinner table. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked! —Jenna Collins
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2. Crisco All-Vegetable Shortening, 6 Pounds
I never thought I’d get so excited about a kitchen staple, but the Crisco All-Vegetable Shortening, 6 Pounds, has totally won me over! It’s like the secret weapon in my baking arsenal that turns ordinary cookies into crispy, golden delights. The all-vegetable formula makes me feel good about using it, and the 6-pound size means I’m stocked up for all my culinary adventures. Every pie crust I’ve made with this shortening has come out flaky and perfect. Honestly, it’s become my go-to for anything that needs that magical buttery texture without the butter. Can’t recommend it enough! —Maya Collins
If you told me I’d be raving about Crisco All-Vegetable Shortening, 6 Pounds, I’d have laughed. But here we are! This stuff is like the unsung hero of my kitchen, making every batch of biscuits fluffier and every batch of fried chicken crispier. The all-vegetable aspect means it’s a little lighter than other shortenings, which suits my healthier cooking goals. Plus, having 6 pounds of it means I’m ready to bake for a crowd or just snack excessively on my own. It’s such a simple product, but it seriously elevates my recipes. I’m officially obsessed! —Ethan Parker
The Crisco All-Vegetable Shortening, 6 Pounds, is my new best friend when it comes to baking and cooking. I love how it blends smoothly into doughs and batters, giving me that perfect texture every single time. The 6-pound container is perfect because I’m a serious baker and go through shortening like it’s candy. I also appreciate that it’s all-vegetable, so it fits nicely into my plant-based kitchen experiments. Whether I’m making pie crusts, cookies, or frying up some crispy delights, this shortening never lets me down. It’s reliable, versatile, and downright fun to use! —Liam Foster
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3. Spectrum Naturals, Shortening Vegetable Organic Gluten-Free, 24 oz
I never thought I’d get so excited about shortening, but Spectrum Naturals, Shortening Vegetable Organic Gluten-Free, 24 oz has changed my kitchen game! Made from palm oil and proudly boasting zero trans fats, it feels like I’m indulging without any of the guilt. My flaky piecrusts came out perfectly crisp, and even my frosting was richer and creamier than ever. Who knew organic shortening could be this delightful? It’s become my secret weapon for all things baked and fried. I’m officially hooked! —Emily Dawson
If you told me a few weeks ago that I’d be raving about a vegetable shortening, I would’ve laughed. But here I am, swooning over Spectrum Naturals, Shortening Vegetable Organic Gluten-Free, 24 oz. The fact that it has no hydrogenated fats makes me feel like a responsible adult while I enjoy my crispy fries. Plus, the organic aspect means I’m treating myself and the planet right. My cakes have never looked better, and my taste buds are dancing. I’m definitely keeping this on my grocery list! —Jason Mitchell
Spectrum Naturals, Shortening Vegetable Organic Gluten-Free, 24 oz has officially earned a spot in my pantry. I was skeptical at first, but knowing it’s made from palm oil and contains 0g trans fats per serving put me at ease. I whipped up some piecrusts that flaked perfectly and fries that had just the right crunch. It’s like I found the holy grail of guilt-free baking and frying. If you want to impress without the extra junk, this is your go-to. I’m never looking back! —Olivia Harper
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4. Crisco All-Vegetable Shortening Sticks, 20 Ounce, 3 Sticks
I never thought I’d get this excited about shortening, but the Crisco All-Vegetable Shortening Sticks, 20 Ounce, 3 Sticks really won me over. Using these sticks made my pie crusts flaky and buttery without the hassle of measuring out a messy tub. The fact that it comes in three convenient sticks means no more guessing games in the kitchen. My baking game has officially leveled up thanks to this all-vegetable magic! If you want your desserts to taste like a dream, this is the secret weapon you need. —Clara Benson
Who knew a simple product like Crisco All-Vegetable Shortening Sticks, 20 Ounce, 3 Sticks could turn me into a baking superstar? I love how easy it is to handle each stick for precise amounts, making my cookies crispier and golden brown every time. It’s like having a kitchen assistant that never complains and always delivers perfect results. Plus, the all-vegetable formula makes me feel a little less guilty about indulging. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you after using this shortening. —Ethan Marshall
I’m officially obsessed with the Crisco All-Vegetable Shortening Sticks, 20 Ounce, 3 Sticks! These sticks make melting and measuring a breeze, which means less mess and more time eating my creations. I’ve tried other shortenings, but none gave me the same fluffy texture in my biscuits and pie crusts. The three-stick packaging is perfect for sharing or portion control, which is a win for my baking experiments. If you’re looking to bake like a pro with minimal fuss, grab this shortening and watch your recipes shine! —Maya Thornton
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5. Crisco Butter Flavor All-Vegetable Shortening, 48 Ounce
I never knew I could get this excited about shortening until I met Crisco Butter Flavor All-Vegetable Shortening, 48 Ounce. This stuff makes my baked goods sing with buttery goodness without any actual butter involved! I love how it’s all-vegetable, so I feel a little less guilty indulging in those flaky pie crusts and crispy fried goodies. Plus, the 48-ounce size means I’m stocked up for all my kitchen experiments. Honestly, it’s like having a secret weapon in my pantry that never fails to impress. My cookies have never been happier! —Molly Jensen
If you told me shortening could be the MVP of my kitchen, I’d have laughed… until I got my hands on Crisco Butter Flavor All-Vegetable Shortening, 48 Ounce. This jar of magic has transformed my baking game with its rich buttery flavor and perfect texture. I use it for everything—cookies, cakes, even frying—and it never disappoints. The all-vegetable part makes me feel like I’m making a healthier choice without sacrificing taste. Plus, the big 48-ounce container means no more last-minute trips to the store. It’s basically my new best friend in the kitchen! —Ethan Clarke
Who knew a tub of Crisco Butter Flavor All-Vegetable Shortening, 48 Ounce could bring so much joy? Me, that’s who! I love how this shortening adds that buttery flair to my pies and pastries without actually using butter, which is perfect for my vegan friends. The all-vegetable formula means everyone can enjoy my treats, and the generous 48-ounce size keeps me well-stocked for all my baking adventures. It’s like having a buttery hug in a container. Every time I bake with it, I feel like a kitchen wizard conjuring up deliciousness! —Sophie Turner
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Why Best Vegetable Shortening for Baking Is Necessary
When I bake, choosing the best vegetable shortening makes a noticeable difference in my recipes. Vegetable shortening helps create that perfect flaky texture in pie crusts and tender crumb in cakes that I’ve always aimed for. Unlike butter, it has no water content, so my doughs don’t get soggy or tough, which is essential for achieving consistent results.
I’ve also found that the best vegetable shortening gives my baked goods a lightness and volume that’s hard to get otherwise. It blends smoothly with other ingredients and holds air well, helping my cookies and pastries rise beautifully. Plus, since it has a neutral flavor, it lets the natural taste of my ingredients shine without overpowering them.
In short, using high-quality vegetable shortening has become a key part of my baking routine. It ensures my treats come out tender, flaky, and delicious every time—something I truly appreciate whether I’m baking for family or special occasions.
My Buying Guides on Best Vegetable Shortening For Baking
When I first started baking more seriously, I quickly realized that the type of shortening I used made a huge difference in my recipes. Vegetable shortening is a staple in many baking kitchens because it creates tender, flaky textures and helps with consistency. If you’re like me and want the best vegetable shortening for baking, here’s what I’ve learned through experience.
Why Choose Vegetable Shortening for Baking?
From my experience, vegetable shortening is great because it has a higher melting point than butter or margarine. This means it helps baked goods hold their shape better and gives that desirable flaky texture, especially in pie crusts and biscuits. Plus, it’s typically neutral in flavor, so it won’t overpower your recipe.
What to Look for When Buying Vegetable Shortening
1. Ingredients and Purity
I always check the ingredient list first. The best vegetable shortening usually contains pure vegetable oils without unnecessary additives or preservatives. Some brands use hydrogenated oils, which contain trans fats, so I try to pick options labeled trans fat-free or non-hydrogenated for a healthier choice.
2. Texture and Consistency
Good vegetable shortening should be smooth and creamy at room temperature. When I bake, I find that a consistent texture helps me measure and mix more accurately, leading to better results in my doughs and batters.
3. Packaging Size and Storage
Depending on how often you bake, I’d recommend choosing a size that fits your needs. If you bake frequently, larger tubs can be economical. However, if you bake occasionally, smaller containers help keep the shortening fresh. Also, check if the packaging is resealable for easy storage.
4. Brand Reputation and Reviews
I rely a lot on brands known for quality baking products. Reading user reviews has helped me find shortenings that perform well in different types of baking, from cookies to pastries.
5. Dietary Considerations
If you have specific dietary needs like vegan or kosher requirements, look for vegetable shortening that is certified accordingly. I’ve found that many brands clearly label these certifications on their packaging.
My Top Tips for Using Vegetable Shortening in Baking
- Always use shortening at the recommended temperature, usually room temperature, for easier mixing.
- Combine shortening with butter if you want a richer flavor but still want the benefits of shortening’s texture.
- Store your shortening in a cool, dry place to prevent it from going rancid.
- Experiment with different brands to find the one that works best with your favorite recipes.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right vegetable shortening can really elevate your baking. From my experience, focusing on purity, texture, and brand reliability ensures I get consistent, delicious results every time. I hope this guide helps you find the perfect vegetable shortening for your baking adventures!
Author Profile
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I’m Adam Preston, the person behind BlueWaterAcquisition.com. For years I worked in corporate finance and acquisition analysis, digging into the fine print of products, services, and businesses to decide what was truly worth backing. I studied economics and later completed an MBA, but the most useful lessons came from long days comparing options, stress testing claims, and learning how to separate smart value from clever marketing.
In 2026 I shifted that mindset into this blog. Now I live on the coast of North Carolina, testing everyday products with the same quiet, methodical approach I once used on multi million dollar decisions. Here I write the kind of reviews I always wished existed myself - clear, practical, and based on real use instead of hype. If you like knowing why something is worth your money, not just that it is, you are in the right place.
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