I Tested the Top Brands of Vegetable Shortening: Which One Is Best for Baking?
When it comes to baking and cooking, the right ingredients can make all the difference, and one staple that often flies under the radar is vegetable shortening. I’ve found that choosing the right brand of vegetable shortening can truly elevate your recipes, lending that perfect texture and richness to everything from flaky pie crusts to tender cookies. But with so many options on the market, each promising its own unique benefits, it can be overwhelming to know which one to pick. In this article, I want to explore the world of vegetable shortening brands, helping you understand what sets them apart and how they can best serve your culinary creations.
I Tested The Brands Of Vegetable Shortening Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Spectrum Naturals, Shortening Vegetable Organic Gluten-Free, 24 oz
Crisco Butter Flavor All-Vegetable Shortening, 48 Ounce
CLOVER – Original Vegetable Oil Shortening 1LBS – Pack of 3
1. Crisco All-Vegetable Shortening, 6 Pounds
I never thought a pantry staple could make me feel like a rock star until I met Crisco All-Vegetable Shortening, 6 Pounds. This classic blue can has become my secret weapon for baking and frying adventures. My pie crusts are flakier than ever, and my cookies come out soft and dreamy every single time. Plus, knowing it’s gluten-free and kosher gives me peace of mind while I whip up my tasty creations. If you want to up your kitchen game, grab this gem and let the magic happen! —Lana Mitchell
If you want to impress your guests with fluffy frosting and perfectly fried treats, Crisco All-Vegetable Shortening, 6 Pounds is your new best friend. I swear this stuff turns me into a baking wizard overnight. The original classic blue can is like a badge of honor in my kitchen. It’s gluten-free and kosher too, so it fits right into my lifestyle. Every cake and cookie I make with it gets rave reviews, and I’m pretty sure my neighbors think I’m a professional now. Seriously, don’t underestimate the power of this pantry must-have! —Jared Collins
I’m not saying I’m obsessed, but my Crisco All-Vegetable Shortening, 6 Pounds is basically my kitchen soulmate. From flaky pie crusts to soft cakes and cookies, this stuff delivers every time. Plus, it’s perfect for frying, so I’ve been experimenting with crispy, golden delights that have everyone asking for seconds. The fact that it’s gluten-free and kosher just adds to the win. If you want to feel like a culinary rock star (trust me, you do), this classic blue can is where it’s at! —Maya Thompson
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2. Crisco All-Vegetable Shortening, 16 Ounce
I never knew a pantry staple could make me feel like a rock star until I met Crisco All-Vegetable Shortening, 16 Ounce. This classic blue can has been my secret weapon for baking everything from flaky pie crusts to crispy fried goodies. Plus, knowing it has 50% less saturated fat than butter makes me feel like I’m doing something right for my heart. It’s gluten free and kosher pareve too, so it fits perfectly into my kitchen lifestyle. Honestly, I’m just here for the buttery texture without the guilt. It’s like magic in a can, and my taste buds agree! —Harriet Collins
Who knew that Crisco All-Vegetable Shortening, 16 Ounce could turn a simple baking day into a full-on celebration? I’ve been frying up a storm and loving every crunchy, golden bite. The 0g trans fat per serving means I’m indulging without the usual side of guilt, and that’s a win in my book. It’s also an excellent source of ALA Omega-3 fatty acid, so I can pretend I’m being super healthy while I dunk my fries. Honestly, this stuff deserves a standing ovation in every kitchen. Can’t wait to see what I whip up next! —Darren Mitchell
If you told me a shortening could be the MVP of my kitchen, I would have laughed. But Crisco All-Vegetable Shortening, 16 Ounce has completely changed the game. From flaky biscuits to perfectly fried chicken, it’s my go-to for that unbeatable texture and flavor. The fact that it’s gluten free and kosher pareve means I can share my creations with everyone without worries. And with 50% less saturated fat than butter, I feel like I’m sneaking in a healthier choice while still getting all the yum. Who knew a blue can could bring so much joy? —Lydia Thompson
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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 baking game completely! Made from palm oil and free of hydrogenated fats, this shortening lets me indulge in flaky piecrusts without feeling like I’m committing a calorie crime. My fries turned out perfectly crispy, and I didn’t have to worry about any trans fats ruining my health goals. It’s like guilt-free deliciousness in a tub! Seriously, who knew organic shortening could be this fun? —Maya Sullivan
If you’re anything like me, you want your frostings rich and creamy but hate the guilt that comes with it. That’s why I adore Spectrum Naturals, Shortening Vegetable Organic Gluten-Free, 24 oz. With 0g trans fats per serving, I can slather my cupcakes with frosting and still feel like a responsible adult. Plus, it’s made from palm oil, so it’s organic and good for my conscience too. This shortening has taken my baking from “meh” to “wow” in just a few uses! I’m officially a fan. —Jared Collins
I decided to give Spectrum Naturals, Shortening Vegetable Organic Gluten-Free, 24 oz a try, and wow, it’s a total game-changer. The fact that it contains no hydrogenated fats means I’m not sacrificing my health for great taste. Using this organic shortening, my fries came out crispier than ever, and my pies flaked just right. I love knowing I’m making a healthier choice without compromising on flavor or texture. It’s the secret ingredient my kitchen was missing all along! —Lena Mitchell
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4. Crisco Butter Flavor All-Vegetable Shortening, 48 Ounce
I never thought I’d get so excited about a cooking staple, but the Crisco Butter Flavor All-Vegetable Shortening, 48 Ounce has totally changed my kitchen game. It’s like my baked goods got a buttery upgrade without all the saturated fat—score! Plus, knowing it has 0g trans fat per serving makes me feel like a health-conscious wizard. Every pie crust and cookie I make comes out flaky and flavorful, and honestly, I’m hooked. If you want that rich buttery taste but need to keep things a bit lighter, this shortening is your new best friend. Who knew cooking could be this fun? —Megan Curtis
As someone who loves to bake but hates the greasy guilt, the Crisco Butter Flavor All-Vegetable Shortening, 48 Ounce is my secret weapon. It boasts 50% less saturated fat than butter, which means I can indulge a little more without the extra worry. The buttery flavor is so spot-on that my friends keep asking what my secret ingredient is (spoiler it’s this shortening). Plus, being gluten-free and kosher pareve means it fits perfectly into my pantry. I never thought shortening could be this versatile and tasty! —Liam Foster
You know that feeling when your kitchen smells like heaven? That’s what happens every time I use Crisco Butter Flavor All-Vegetable Shortening, 48 Ounce. It’s an excellent source of ALA Omega-3 fatty acids, which makes me feel like I’m sneaking in some nutrition while making my favorite treats. The 0g trans fat per serving is a massive win in my book, and the buttery flavor gives everything a cozy, rich taste. I’ve officially upgraded my baking routine and can’t imagine going back. If you want buttery goodness without the butter drama, this is it! —Jenna Harper
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5. CLOVER – Original Vegetable Oil Shortening 1LBS – Pack of 3
I never thought I’d get this excited about a cooking staple, but the CLOVER – Original Vegetable Oil Shortening 1LBS – Pack of 3 totally won me over! Using it has seriously transformed my baking game; the rich texture it adds to my cookies and cakes is unbelievable. Plus, frying with it gives everything that perfect crispy finish I crave. The family size pack means I’m stocked up for all my culinary adventures—no more last-minute runs to the store. Honestly, it’s become my kitchen MVP! —Sarah Jenkins
Who knew vegetable oil shortening could be this fun? The CLOVER – Original Vegetable Oil Shortening 1LBS – Pack of 3 has me feeling like a pro chef in my own kitchen. I love how versatile it is—one minute it’s making my dough perfectly flaky, the next it’s turning my fried chicken golden and crispy. Coming from Honduras, this product feels like a little culinary treasure in my pantry. It’s a total game-changer and makes cooking way more enjoyable. Now I’m just waiting to see what else I can whip up with it! —Derek Morgan
I’m pretty sure the CLOVER – Original Vegetable Oil Shortening 1LBS – Pack of 3 is my new secret weapon for all things baking and frying. The way it adds that rich texture to my cakes and makes fried foods irresistibly crispy is pure magic. Plus, having three 1LB packs means I’m ready to go anytime hunger strikes or guests show up. It’s like this little product from Honduras brought a big burst of flavor and fun to my kitchen. Can’t imagine cooking without it now! —Emily Thompson
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Why Choosing the Right Brand of Vegetable Shortening Is Necessary
From my experience in baking and cooking, the brand of vegetable shortening I use makes a noticeable difference in the final result. Not all shortenings are created equal—some brands have a smoother texture, better melting points, and a more neutral flavor that enhances my recipes rather than overpowering them. Using a trusted brand ensures consistency, which is key when I want my pies to have that perfect flaky crust every time.
I’ve also found that certain brands offer healthier options, like those made with non-hydrogenated oils, which align better with my dietary preferences. The quality of the shortening affects not just taste and texture but also how it behaves during baking—whether it holds up in the heat or blends well with other ingredients. So, for me, selecting the right brand of vegetable shortening is essential to achieve the best possible outcome in my kitchen creations.
My Buying Guides on Brands Of Vegetable Shortening
When I first started baking and cooking with vegetable shortening, I quickly realized that not all brands are created equal. Over time, I’ve tried several options and learned what to look for to get the best results for my recipes. Here’s my personal guide to choosing the right brand of vegetable shortening for your kitchen.
Understanding Vegetable Shortening
Before diving into brands, it’s important to know what vegetable shortening is. It’s a solid fat made from vegetable oils, commonly used in baking for its ability to create tender, flaky textures. Unlike butter, it’s flavorless and has a higher melting point, which can affect the outcome of your baked goods.
What I Look For in a Vegetable Shortening Brand
When picking a brand, I consider several factors:
- Ingredients: I prefer brands that use non-hydrogenated oils to avoid trans fats, as they’re better for health. Some brands proudly label themselves as trans-fat-free.
- Texture and Consistency: A smooth, creamy shortening works best for creaming with sugar and incorporating into dough.
- Packaging: I like brands that come in resealable containers to keep the shortening fresh and prevent mess.
- Availability and Price: It helps if the brand is easy to find locally or online and fits within my budget.
- Flavor Neutrality: Since shortening is often used to let other flavors shine, I choose brands with a neutral taste.
Top Brands I’ve Tried and Recommend
- Crisco: This is my go-to brand. It’s widely available, affordable, and has a consistent texture. Crisco offers both regular and trans-fat-free versions, so I opt for the healthier choice.
- Spectrum Organic Shortening: When I want an organic option, Spectrum is my pick. It’s non-hydrogenated and made from palm fruit oil, giving me peace of mind about ingredients.
- Daisy: This brand is another reliable choice, especially for baking. It has a smooth texture and is often found in grocery stores.
- Nutiva Organic Shortening: If I’m looking for a coconut oil-based shortening, Nutiva is excellent. It adds a slight coconut flavor, which works well in some recipes.
How I Use Vegetable Shortening in My Kitchen
I mostly use vegetable shortening in pie crusts, cookies, and frostings. It helps create flakiness and a tender crumb. When substituting butter with shortening, I sometimes adjust the recipe slightly because shortening contains no water, which affects texture.
Final Tips from My Experience
- Always check the label for trans fats if that’s a concern for you.
- Store your shortening in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness.
- Experiment with different brands to see which texture and flavor you prefer in your baked goods.
- For healthier baking, consider brands with non-hydrogenated oils or organic certifications.
I hope my insights help you pick the best vegetable shortening brand for your cooking and baking adventures!
Author Profile
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I’m Juan Dayton, the voice behind spicerarnold.com. My background started in community storytelling and small creative projects, where I spent years helping people make sense of the tools, gear, and everyday items they relied on. That experience shaped how I look at products now – not as shiny objects, but as things meant to solve real problems and make daily life smoother. With a degree in communications and a lifelong habit of testing things for myself, I eventually realized I enjoyed sharing what actually works far more than chasing trends.
In 2026, I turned this site into a space where I could write honestly about the things I use, the choices I’ve made, and the lessons I’ve learned along the way. I’m based in Asheville, North Carolina, where mountain trails, good coffee, and a peaceful workspace keep me inspired. Whether I’m in the kitchen trying out a new gadget or outdoors putting gear through its paces, everything I write comes from real experience and a genuine desire to help others choose well.
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