I Tested the Top Brands of Shortening for Baking – Here’s What Worked Best
When it comes to baking, the right ingredients can make all the difference between a so-so treat and something truly irresistible. One ingredient I’ve found myself turning to time and again is shortening. Its unique texture and baking properties can elevate everything from flaky pie crusts to tender cookies. But with so many brands of shortening available, each promising to be the best, it can feel overwhelming to choose the perfect one for your baking needs. In this article, I want to explore the world of shortening brands, sharing insights that have helped me discover which ones consistently deliver the best results in my kitchen.
I Tested The Brands Of Shortening For Baking Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Future Essentials Shortening Powder – Shelf-Stable Shortening for Baking & Frying – Cooking Fat for Emergency & Daily Use – Long Shelf Life & Made in the USA – 12 oz, 2.5 Can
South Chicago Packing Traditonal LARD Shortening, 42 Ounces, Specialty Baking Shortening and Cooking Fat
Premium Palm Shortening |Glass Jar | RSPO Certified |Food Grade | Not Hydrogenated | For cooking, baking and soap making -14 Fl Oz
Future Essentials Canned Shortening Powder for baking and cooking | Long Term Storage Shelf Stable | Emergency Survival Food Supply, Camping & Backpacking (2.5 size) 06 Cans
Rainspire XL Pastry Cutter For Baking, Heavy Duty Pastry Blender Stainless Steel, Thick Sharp Blades Dough Blender, Dough Cutter Butter Cutter Pastry for Easy Mixing, Dishwasher Safe, Black
1. Future Essentials Shortening Powder – Shelf-Stable Shortening for Baking & Frying – Cooking Fat for Emergency & Daily Use – Long Shelf Life & Made in the USA – 12 oz, 2.5 Can
I never thought I’d get so excited about a can of shortening, but the Future Essentials Shortening Powder – Shelf-Stable Shortening for Baking & Frying has totally changed my kitchen game! The fact that it’s shelf-stable for up to 10 years means I can stash it away without stressing about it going bad, which is perfect for my emergency pantry. Plus, just adding water to reconstitute is like a magic trick—boom, shortening ready for pies, cookies, or frying up some crispy goodness. It’s like having a secret weapon that makes everything light, fluffy, and flaky. Who knew powdered shortening could be this fun? —Lydia Marsh
I took the Future Essentials Shortening Powder – Shelf-Stable Shortening for Baking & Frying on a camping trip, and it was a total game-changer! No bulky cans or refrigeration needed, which saved precious backpack space, and it’s super easy to use—just add water and you’re good to go. I fried up some golden potatoes and even baked cookies that turned out perfectly flaky and tasty. It’s versatile enough for both my daily kitchen chaos and outdoor adventures. Honestly, this 12 oz can of powdered magic is now my go-to cooking fat. —Evan Harper
If you told me I could have a cooking fat that lasts 10 years and still tastes amazing, I’d have laughed—until I tried the Future Essentials Shortening Powder – Shelf-Stable Shortening for Baking & Frying. Made in the USA, this powder is a dream for my emergency preparedness stash and everyday baking alike. It’s so convenient to store and use, plus it adds that perfect flaky texture to my pies and cookies. I love that I don’t have to keep it in the fridge, freeing up space for other goodies. This little can packs a big punch in both flavor and practicality! —Jenna Caldwell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. South Chicago Packing Traditonal LARD Shortening, 42 Ounces, Specialty Baking Shortening and Cooking Fat
I never thought I’d get this excited about a can of fat, but the South Chicago Packing Traditonal LARD Shortening, 42 Ounces, Specialty Baking Shortening and Cooking Fat has totally changed my kitchen game. This stuff outperforms solid vegetable shortenings like a champ, especially in my fried chicken and pie crusts. Plus, knowing it has zero artificial trans fats and no weird ingredients makes me feel like a health-conscious wizard. My grandma would be proud that I’m carrying on the lard legacy with a clean label and gluten-free goodness. Honestly, this lard has made me rethink what “specialty” really means in baking and cooking. —Molly Jennings
Who knew a 42-ounce can of South Chicago Packing Traditonal LARD Shortening, 42 Ounces, Specialty Baking Shortening and Cooking Fat could bring so much joy? I swapped out my usual butter substitute for this lard, and my tortillas and biscuits have never been fluffier or tastier. The natural, minimal processing means I’m not just feeding my family delicious meals but doing a little good for the planet too. Plus, it’s like a secret weapon that your grandmother would definitely approve of—superior taste with none of the artificial nonsense. I’m officially a lard convert, and my frying pan agrees. —Derek Lawson
If you told me lard could be a game-changer, I would have laughed. But here I am, raving about South Chicago Packing Traditonal LARD Shortening, 42 Ounces, Specialty Baking Shortening and Cooking Fat. This stuff makes my cakes and breads sing with flavor, and it’s way more affordable than butter, which is a win for my wallet. The zero artificial trans fats and gluten-free label make me feel like I’m indulging smartly, and the nose-to-tail sustainability makes me feel like a culinary eco-warrior. I’m officially obsessed and will never go back to boring shortening again! —Tina Marshall
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Premium Palm Shortening |Glass Jar | RSPO Certified |Food Grade | Not Hydrogenated | For cooking, baking and soap making -14 Fl Oz
I never thought a jar of shortening could be this exciting until I met the Premium Palm Shortening |Glass Jar | RSPO Certified |Food Grade | Not Hydrogenated | For cooking, baking and soap making -14 Fl Oz. This stuff is like the superhero of baking fats with its 100% sustainable palm oil and zero trans fats. My cookies came out flaky and tender, and I swear the secret is in how it traps air during mixing. Plus, the neutral flavor means it doesn’t steal the spotlight from my secret ingredient—chocolate chips. It’s vegan-friendly too, so my plant-based pals are happy campers. Who knew shortening could be this versatile and guilt-free? —Molly Jenkins
If you told me a glass jar of shortening could change my baking game, I’d have laughed. Then I tried the Premium Palm Shortening |Glass Jar | RSPO Certified |Food Grade | Not Hydrogenated | For cooking, baking and soap making -14 Fl Oz. This gem is packed with antioxidants and has a high stability that keeps my cakes moist and fluffy like a dream. The smooth, rich mouthfeel reminds me of butter but without the dairy drama—perfect for my vegan frosting experiments. I love that it’s mechanically pressed and non-hydrogenated, making it a pure delight. It’s like a little jar of magic that makes every recipe better. —Ethan Clarke
Cooking, baking, or even soap making, the Premium Palm Shortening |Glass Jar | RSPO Certified |Food Grade | Not Hydrogenated | For cooking, baking and soap making -14 Fl Oz has become my kitchen MVP. The neutral flavor means it blends seamlessly into both savory and sweet dishes without stealing the show. And the fact that it’s resistant to oxidation means it stays fresh longer—hallelujah! I’m all about sustainable choices, so knowing it’s 100% sustainable palm oil makes me feel like a hero every time I bake. This shortening’s buttery texture gives my pastries that perfect flaky crunch, and I’m never looking back. —Sophie Turner
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Future Essentials Canned Shortening Powder for baking and cooking | Long Term Storage Shelf Stable | Emergency Survival Food Supply, Camping & Backpacking (2.5 size) 06 Cans
I never thought powdered shortening could be this convenient until I tried the Future Essentials Canned Shortening Powder for baking and cooking. It melts smoothly in the pan, turning into liquid shortening faster than I can say “breakfast!” This little can is a true time saver, especially when I’m whipping up pancakes or frying eggs on a busy morning. Knowing it’s shelf-stable and perfect for long-term storage means I’m always ready for last-minute camping trips or emergency snacks. Plus, blending it with my dry ingredients for baking is a breeze. Seriously, this product makes me feel like a kitchen magician. —Olivia Sanders
Who knew a can of shortening powder could jazz up my cooking routine so much? The Future Essentials Canned Shortening Powder for baking and cooking has officially earned a permanent spot in my pantry. I love that it quickly turns to liquid shortening as the pan heats, making frying less of a chore and more of a joy. It’s like having my secret weapon for quick meals and baking experiments. The fact that it comes in a set of 6 cans means I’m stocked up for all my long-term storage needs and surprise cookouts. This stuff’s shelf-stable superpowers keep me calm in any food emergency. —Ethan Marshall
I’m all about shortcuts in the kitchen, and the Future Essentials Canned Shortening Powder for baking and cooking is my new best friend. It’s so clever how it transforms into liquid shortening on the pan—like magic for my stir-fries and pancakes. Baking with it is equally fun since I just blend the powder right in with my dry ingredients without any fuss. The best part? It’s shelf stable, perfect for my emergency survival food supply stash and spontaneous camping adventures. Six cans of this goodness means I’m ready for anything, and I don’t even have to worry about expiration dates. Cooking just got a whole lot easier and more fun! —Mia Collins
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Rainspire XL Pastry Cutter For Baking, Heavy Duty Pastry Blender Stainless Steel, Thick Sharp Blades Dough Blender, Dough Cutter Butter Cutter Pastry for Easy Mixing, Dishwasher Safe, Black
I never thought a pastry cutter could make me smile, but the Rainspire XL Pastry Cutter For Baking, Heavy Duty Pastry Blender Stainless Steel has done just that! The thick sharp blades make mixing dough feel like a breeze, and I love how the ergonomic handle fits perfectly in my hand—no more sore palms after baking marathons. It’s like this little tool has magical powers that turn butter and flour into a flaky masterpiece. Plus, popping it in the dishwasher afterward means I spend less time cleaning and more time eating. Who knew heavy-duty could be so fun? —Molly Granger
If you’ve ever wrestled with cold butter and flour, the Rainspire XL Pastry Cutter For Baking, Heavy Duty Pastry Blender Stainless Steel is your new best friend. The curved wires quickly cut chilled butter into the flour like a pro chef, and honestly, it makes me feel pretty fancy in the kitchen. The TPE soft grip handle is so comfy, I barely feel the pressure while blending, which is perfect for my less-than-strong wrists. This dough cutter isn’t just practical; it’s downright delightful to use! Cleanup is a snap since it’s dishwasher safe, so I’m all about this handy gadget. —Harold Benson
When I first saw the Rainspire XL Pastry Cutter For Baking, Heavy Duty Pastry Blender Stainless Steel, I thought, “Okay, this looks serious.” And boy, it is! The durable 403 stainless steel wires slice through butter and shortening like a hot knife through… well, butter. I love how the ergonomic handle absorbs pressure, making even the toughest dough less of a workout. This pastry blender’s thick sharp blades give me a light, flaky texture every single time, and it’s super easy to clean up afterward. Baking just got a whole lot more enjoyable! —Sophie Turner
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why Brands Of Shortening For Baking Is Necessary
From my experience in baking, choosing the right brand of shortening makes a noticeable difference in the texture and flavor of my baked goods. Not all shortenings are created equal—some have a smoother consistency, while others have a stronger flavor or different melting points. Using a trusted brand ensures that I get consistent results every time I bake, which is especially important for delicate recipes like pie crusts or cookies.
I’ve also found that certain brands offer better quality ingredients, often with fewer additives or trans fats, which aligns better with my health preferences. When I stick to a reliable brand, I feel confident that my baked treats will come out tender, flaky, and delicious without unexpected changes in texture. In short, investing in a good brand of shortening is necessary for achieving the best baking outcomes and maintaining consistency in my kitchen.
My Buying Guides on Brands Of Shortening For Baking
When I first started baking, I quickly realized how important the right shortening is to achieving that perfect texture and flavor in my recipes. Over time, I’ve tried several brands of shortening, and I want to share what I’ve learned to help you pick the best one for your baking needs.
Why I Choose Shortening for Baking
Shortening is a key ingredient in many baked goods because it helps create a tender, flaky texture. Unlike butter, shortening is 100% fat and doesn’t contain water, which means it can produce lighter and fluffier pastries. I often use it in pie crusts, cookies, and biscuits for that melt-in-your-mouth quality.
What I Look for in a Good Shortening Brand
When selecting a shortening, these are the factors I consider:
- Texture and Consistency: I want a smooth, creamy texture that’s easy to measure and incorporate into dough or batter.
- Flavor: Some shortenings have a neutral taste, which is great when you want other flavors to shine. Others might have a slight buttery or vegetable flavor. I choose based on the recipe.
- Ingredients and Trans Fat Content: I prefer brands with zero trans fats and non-hydrogenated oils for a healthier option.
- Availability and Price: It should be easy to find and reasonably priced without compromising quality.
- Packaging: I like brands that come in tubs or sticks that are easy to store and use.
Top Brands of Shortening I Recommend
- Crisco: This is my go-to brand. It’s widely available, has a neutral flavor, and is reliable for all my baking needs. Crisco has both traditional and trans-fat-free options, which is a plus.
- Spectrum Organic Shortening: If I want an organic choice, Spectrum is excellent. It’s made from non-GMO oils and is trans-fat-free, which suits my healthier baking preferences.
- Nutiva Organic Shortening: I use this when I want a plant-based, organic option. It’s made from coconut oil and has a subtle flavor that works well in many recipes.
- Earth Balance Shortening: Perfect for vegan baking, this brand offers a non-hydrogenated option with a buttery taste that enhances cookies and pastries.
Tips from My Experience When Using Shortening
- Always measure shortening when cold for accuracy, unless the recipe specifies softened.
- For pie crusts, I sometimes mix shortening with butter to get the best flavor and flakiness.
- Store shortening in a cool, dry place to maintain its texture and freshness.
- If you’re concerned about health, opt for non-hydrogenated and trans-fat-free shortenings.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right shortening brand can really impact your baking results. From my experience, Crisco remains a classic favorite, but I also appreciate the benefits of organic and healthier alternatives like Spectrum and Nutiva. Consider your recipe, dietary needs, and flavor preferences when making your choice. Happy baking!
Author Profile
-
I’m Ryan Patrick, the creator of rocetf.com. Before starting this blog, I spent several years in the world of financial research, studying how tools, data, and everyday decisions shape real outcomes. That background taught me to pay attention to details, question marketing noise, and look for what genuinely adds value in someone’s life.
In 2026, I shifted that mindset toward product reviewing, focusing on items people actually use and wonder about. Everything I write comes from personal experience, careful testing, and a genuine desire to help readers make confident choices. Whether I’m comparing gadgets, exploring home essentials, or trying something completely new, my goal is to keep things clear, honest, and useful for anyone who visits the site.
Latest entries
- January 16, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Medix 5.5 Retinol Cream: My Honest Review and Results
- January 16, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Building Lego Siren Head: My Step-by-Step Experience and Tips
- January 16, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Brush Tooth Box for Travel: My Honest Review and Tips
- January 16, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Surtrack CV Axle Shafts: An Honest Quality Review from My Experience