Top 10 best Baking & Cooking Shortenings products

Based on 569 reviews
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How to Choose the Baking & Cooking Shortenings

Everything You Need To Know About Baking & Cooking Shortening

Baking & Cooking Shortening

What Is Shortening?

Shortening, commonly known as fat, is a solid form of fat derived from vegetable oils like cotton seeds, soybeans, and others. To achieve the highest quality, hydrogenated fatty acids are employed in the production of shortening. It remains solid at room temperature and requires very high temperatures to melt.

The manufacturing process of shortening is diverse, with each country having its unique recipe using different ingredients.

At first glance, shortening appears similar to other fats - opaque white, porous with a glossy surface, and possessing a certain level of flexibility without cracking. However, when melted, it transforms into a transparent liquid with a pale yellow color, carrying the distinctive flavor of its source materials.

What Is Shortening Used For?

  • Both cooking and baking recipes incorporate shortening for various purposes. Understanding how gluten functions in baking is crucial to comprehend the role of shortening in the process. Gluten contributes to a chewy end product, which is ideal for stretchy "long" doughs like pizza crust but not suitable for flaky or crumbly "short" doughs like pie crust. When shortening is added to the dough, it forms a barrier between gluten molecules, preventing gluten development.
  • In baked goods, vegetable shortening is used to maintain softness after baking. As the shortening cools, it remains intact and returns to a soft, semisolid state. This characteristic ensures that cookies and other baked treats made with shortening tend to be soft, while those made with butter have a crispier texture.
  • Moreover, vegetable shortening serves as a preferred fat for frying due to its safety features. Its high smoke point and absence of water content reduce the chances of spattering or popping at high temperatures. This quality allows food to be quickly cooked at high heat without burning the oil, which would otherwise result in an unpleasant flavor.
  • In addition to baking and frying, shortening is commonly used as a substitute for butter in frosting recipes. Its inclusion imparts a snowy white color and fluffy texture, creating a frosting that is more heat-resistant. Furthermore, some recipes simply call for greasing the pan with shortening.

Types Of Shortening

There are several types of shortening commonly used in cooking and baking. Here are some of the most popular ones:

  1. Vegetable Shortening: This type of shortening is made from vegetable oils, usually hydrogenated to solidify them. It has a high melting point, making it ideal for baking applications where a solid fat is needed. Vegetable shortening is flavorless and has a smooth texture, making it versatile for various recipes.
  2. Lard: Lard is made from rendered pork fat and has been used as a shortening for centuries. It has a high melting point and adds a distinct flavor to dishes. Lard is commonly used in recipes like pie crusts, biscuits, and savory dishes.
  3. Coconut Oil: Coconut oil is a plant-based shortening that has gained popularity in recent years. It has a unique flavor and aroma that can add a tropical twist to baked goods. Coconut oil is solid at room temperature but melts easily when heated.

How to Cook and Bake With Shortening

To achieve a shortening effect in dough, you need to incorporate solid fat into flour or a dry flour mixture. This can be done using various tools like a pastry cutter, two knives, a food processor, or simply your hands. The fat should be repeatedly cut into smaller pieces and evenly coated in flour. The size of these fat pieces will determine the texture of the final baked product.

For instance, if you cut the fat into pea-sized pieces, you'll get a flaky product like a pie crust or croissant. On the other hand, a texture resembling coarse sand or cornmeal will result in crumbly mixtures, such as streusel.

When using shortening for frying, take a heavy, high-sided frying pan and add the required amount of shortening. Allow it to melt and reach the desired temperature. Add the food to be fried without overcrowding the pan, and cook until it turns golden brown.

Storage

Shortening possesses a long-lasting quality due to its low moisture content, which effectively postpones rancidity and enhances the fat's stability, enabling multiple uses with minimal degradation. When unopened, vegetable shortening can maintain its quality for up to two years. Once opened, it remains at its best for approximately one year. To preserve its freshness, it should be stored in a cool, dark environment and does not require refrigeration. You can identify spoiled shortening by detecting an unusual smell, taste, or altered appearance.

Things To Consider When Buying Baking & Cooking Shortening

When buying baking and cooking shortening, there are several factors to consider to ensure you make the right choice. Here are some important things to keep in mind:

  1. Purpose: Determine the specific purpose for which you need the shortening. Are you using it for baking cakes, cookies, or pastries? Or do you need it for frying or sautéing? Different types of shortening are formulated for specific uses, so understanding your needs will help you make an informed decision.
  2. Ingredients: Check the ingredients list to ensure the shortening meets your dietary requirements and preferences. Look for options that are free from trans fats, hydrogenated oils, and artificial additives. Opting for shortening made from natural or organic ingredients can be a healthier choice.
  3. Texture and Flavor: Consider the texture and flavor that the shortening will impart to your baked goods or cooked dishes. Some shortenings have a neutral taste, while others have a distinct flavor. Similarly, some shortenings create a flaky texture, while others contribute to a more tender result. Choose the one that aligns with your desired outcome.
  4. Shelf Life: Look for shortening with a longer shelf life, especially if you don't use it frequently. Some brands offer shortening that can be stored for an extended period without spoiling or losing quality. This can be particularly useful if you only use shortening occasionally.
  5. Brand Reputation: Research the reputation of the brand you are considering. Read reviews and check for any certifications or awards that indicate the brand's commitment to quality. Established and trusted brands often provide consistent and reliable products.
  6. Price: Compare prices of different brands and types of shortening. While it's important to consider your budget, remember that quality and performance should also be taken into account. Sometimes, paying a little more for a higher-quality product can yield better results.

By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision when buying baking and cooking shortening that suits your needs and preferences.

1
97
95 reviews
Discover the deliciousness of Nutiva Organic Shortening! Our Original flavor is the perfect choice for all your baking and cooking needs. Our shortening is made from the highest quality organic ingredients, guaranteeing you the best flavor and overall satisfaction. Each 15 oz portion is the perfect size to get you started on your culinary journey. Get yours today from the Nutiva Store!
2
96
80 reviews
Discover Epic Provisions Duck Fat, the perfect Keto-friendly and Whole30 compliant baking and cooking shortening! Our 11-ounce jar of Duck Fat is made with only the highest quality ingredients for an unbeatable flavor. Enjoy the perfect portion size for all of your baking and cooking needs. Visit the Epic Provisions Store today and experience the best in flavor, ingredients, and overall satisfaction!
3
94
54 reviews
and Value! Our Traditional Lard Shortening is a specialty baking and cooking fat that offers 42 ounces of delicious flavor. Perfect for baking, this shortening is sure to provide you with the perfect texture for all your baked goods. Our high-quality ingredients and portion size make this shortening a great value for your money. Enjoy the flavor and convenience of our Traditional Lard Shortening today! Discover the delicious flavor of South Chicago Packing's Traditional Lard Shortening. Our 42 ounce shortening is perfect for baking and offers the perfect texture for all of your delectable baked goods. Our high-quality ingredients, portion size, and overall satisfaction make this shortening a great value for your money.
4
91
14 reviews
Crisco Baking Sticks All Vegetable Shortening is the perfect choice for all your baking and cooking needs. Made with only the finest ingredients, this 20 ounce shortening is sure to deliver superior flavor, quality, and satisfaction. Whether you’re baking a delicious cake or cooking up a savory meal, Crisco Baking Sticks All Vegetable Shortening is the perfect choice for all your baking and cooking needs.
5
90
18 reviews
Crisco All Vegetable Shortening, Butter Flavor, 48 Oz is the perfect baking and cooking shortening for any culinary creation. With its buttery flavor and high-quality ingredients, you can be sure of the best results every time. Plus, with its generous 48 Oz portion size, you can be sure of enough for all your baking and cooking needs. Try Crisco All Vegetable Shortening, Butter Flavor, 48 Oz today and experience the difference in flavor, ingredients quality, and overall satisfaction.
6
89
18 reviews
Crisco All Vegetable Shortening with Butter Flavor is the perfect choice for baking and cooking! Our 48 oz. size is the perfect portion size for all of your baking needs. Our shortening is made with the highest quality ingredients, giving you the best flavor and satisfaction. With Crisco, you can be sure that your baking and cooking will be delicious every time!
7
87
40 reviews
Grain Brain Organic Palm Shortening is the perfect choice for baking and cooking! This pack of 12 contains 24 oz of pure, natural, and super high-quality palm shortening that is sustainably certified and non-hydrogenated. With its great flavor, top-notch ingredients, and generous portion size, you'll be sure to be satisfied with your purchase of Grain Brain Organic Palm Shortening!
8
86
23 reviews
If you're looking for the perfect baking and cooking shortening, Goya Manteca Refined Lard is the perfect choice! With its superior flavor, high-quality ingredients, and large portion size, you can be sure of an overall satisfying experience. Get your 2.5 Pound container today from the Goya Store!
9
85
15 reviews
Nutiva Organic Granulated Coconut Sugar is the perfect low-fructose sugar alternative for baking, coffee, and tea. Each pack contains 1 pound of USDA Organic and Non-GMO certified granulated coconut sugar that is vegan and gluten-free. Get the best baking and cooking experience with Nutiva's high-quality ingredients and generous portion size. Visit the Nutiva Store today and enjoy the delicious flavor and satisfaction of Nutiva Organic Granulated Coconut Sugar.
10
84
26 reviews
Discover the best baking and cooking shortening with Spectrum Naturals Organic Gluten-Free Vegetable Shortening. This 24-ounce jar is full of flavor and quality ingredients for an overall satisfying baking experience. Visit the Spectrum Store to get your hands on this amazing product today!

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