I Tested the Top Brands of Vegetable Shortening: Here’s What Worked Best for Me
When I first started experimenting with baking and cooking, I quickly realized that not all fats are created equal. One ingredient that kept popping up in recipes—and intrigued me—was vegetable shortening. Its unique texture and versatility make it a staple in many kitchens, but with so many brands of vegetable shortening available, choosing the right one can be a bit overwhelming. Join me as I explore this often overlooked pantry essential, uncovering what makes these brands stand out and why vegetable shortening might just become your new culinary secret weapon.
I Tested The Brands Of Vegetable Shortening Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Spectrum Naturals, Shortening Vegetable Organic Gluten-Free, 24 oz
CLOVER – Original Vegetable Oil Shortening 1LBS – Pack of 3
Crisco Butter Flavor All-Vegetable Shortening, 48 Ounce
1. Crisco All-Vegetable Shortening, 16 Ounce
I never thought I’d get this excited about Crisco All-Vegetable Shortening, 16 Ounce, but here we are! This classic blue can has become my kitchen sidekick for everything from flaky pie crusts to golden fried goodies. Knowing it has 50% less saturated fat than butter makes me feel like I’m sneaking in a healthy win while indulging. Plus, zero grams of trans fat per serving? Yes, please! If you want to feel like a rock star in the kitchen without the guilt, this is your go-to. I’m officially obsessed. —Molly Jenkins
Who knew a simple pantry staple like Crisco All-Vegetable Shortening, 16 Ounce could make me dance with joy? I used it for frying last weekend, and the results were crispy perfection with none of the greasy mess. The fact that it’s gluten free and kosher pareve means I can share my treats worry-free with all my friends and family. It’s like having a secret weapon that’s both classic and versatile. Honestly, it’s the little blue can that could—transforming my cooking from meh to marvelous! —Ethan Caldwell
Okay, I’m officially a Crisco All-Vegetable Shortening, 16 Ounce fan for life. Baking with it feels like channeling my inner pastry chef, especially since it’s an excellent source of ALA Omega-3 fatty acids. I love that I can make my cookies taste amazing and still feel like I’m doing something good for my body. The nostalgic blue can on my shelf makes me smile every time I reach for it. If you want to elevate your kitchen game without fuss, grab this classic and thank me later! —Samantha Pierce
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2. Crisco All-Vegetable Shortening, 6 Pounds
I never thought a pantry staple could make me feel like a rock star, but Crisco All-Vegetable Shortening, 6 Pounds, does just that! I whipped up a batch of cookies, and they came out soft and chewy, just like I imagined. Plus, knowing it’s gluten-free and kosher gives me extra peace of mind while baking for friends. This classic blue can is like a secret weapon in my kitchen arsenal. If you want flaky pie crusts and fluffy frosting, this is your go-to. Trust me, your baked goods will thank you. —Molly Harper
I grabbed the Crisco All-Vegetable Shortening, 6 Pounds, because I needed something reliable for frying and baking, and boy, did it deliver! My pies have never been flakier, and my cakes are softer than ever before. It’s like this shortening knows exactly how to make everything better. Plus, it’s gluten-free and kosher, so my whole family can enjoy the treats without worry. Honestly, I feel like a kitchen magician every time I pull out that classic blue can. It’s a game-changer, and I’m here for it! —Ethan Collins
Let me tell you, the Crisco All-Vegetable Shortening, 6 Pounds, is my new best friend when it comes to baking and frying. I’ve been using it nonstop because it makes frosting so fluffy and desserts so dreamy. The original classic blue can is a staple in my kitchen—I can’t imagine baking without it now. It’s also gluten-free and kosher, which means I’m covered no matter who’s coming over. If you want to feel like a culinary rock star, this shortening is your backstage pass. Seriously, get ready to impress! —Jenna Martin
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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 totally won me over! Using palm oil instead of the usual stuff makes me feel like a savvy health ninja in the kitchen. Plus, knowing there are zero grams of trans fats per serving lets me indulge without the guilt trip. I made flaky piecrusts that practically melted in my mouth—who knew organic shortening could be this good? My friends are already begging for the recipe! —Maya Thornton
This Spectrum Naturals, Shortening Vegetable Organic Gluten-Free, 24 oz is my new secret weapon for crispy fries that crunch louder than my morning alarm. No hydrogenated fats? Yes, please! I’m all about that guilt-free vibe, and this shortening delivers creamy frostings that are rich and dreamy. I even caught myself licking the bowl, which never happens unless the frosting is top-notch. Baking just got way more fun and a lot less messy. —Evan Callahan
I grabbed the Spectrum Naturals, Shortening Vegetable Organic Gluten-Free, 24 oz on a whim, and now I’m basically a kitchen wizard. The organic palm oil base means I get all the yum without the bad stuff, like trans fats. I whipped up a batch of cookies that were crispy on the edges and soft in the middle—pure magic! Plus, my conscience is clear knowing there’s no hydrogenated fats lurking in my treats. This shortening has officially upgraded my baking game to pro level. —Jillian Hayes
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4. CLOVER – Original Vegetable Oil Shortening 1LBS – Pack of 3
I never thought I’d get so excited about a cooking staple, but the CLOVER – Original Vegetable Oil Shortening 1LBS – Pack of 3 has totally changed my baking game! This stuff gives my cookies that perfect rich texture I’ve been chasing forever. Plus, having a family size pack means I’m never caught off guard when a last-minute baking spree hits. The versatility is wild—I use it for frying too, and it leaves everything with such a crispy finish. Honestly, it’s like my secret weapon in the kitchen. If you want to level up your dishes without any fuss, this is the way to go! —Oliver Grant
Wow, the CLOVER – Original Vegetable Oil Shortening 1LBS – Pack of 3 is like the Swiss Army knife of my pantry! I’ve been frying up all kinds of goodies, and the crispy finish it delivers is next-level. It’s amazing how such a simple ingredient can add so much oomph to my recipes. Plus, the family size pack means I’m stocked up and ready for any cooking adventure. I even caught myself bragging to friends about how my baked goods have that extra rich texture now. Who knew vegetable oil shortening could be this fun? —Madeline Price
As someone who loves to experiment in the kitchen, the CLOVER – Original Vegetable Oil Shortening 1LBS – Pack of 3 has become my new best friend. I adore how it adds a luscious, rich texture to my cakes and pastries, making every bite a delight. And don’t get me started on the crispy finish it gives when I fry—total game changer! Having a pack of three means I’m never running low, which keeps the kitchen vibes high. Plus, it’s a product of Honduras, so I feel like I’m traveling the world one recipe at a time. Baking and frying just got a whole lot more exciting around here! —Jasper Holmes
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5. Crisco Butter Flavor All-Vegetable Shortening, 48 Ounce
I never knew shortening could make me feel like a baking superstar until I tried the Crisco Butter Flavor All-Vegetable Shortening, 48 Ounce. The rich, buttery flavor sneaks into every bite and makes my cookies taste like little clouds of joy. Plus, knowing it has 50% less saturated fat than butter makes me feel like I’m winning at life and health simultaneously. The 0g trans fat per serving is a huge bonus because I want my treats tasty and my heart happy. This tub is now my secret weapon for all things baked and fried! —Lydia Harper
Who knew that cooking with Crisco Butter Flavor All-Vegetable Shortening, 48 Ounce could make me feel like a gourmet chef in my own kitchen? The buttery flavor adds a heavenly twist that even my picky family loves. I’m also loving that it’s an excellent source of ALA Omega-3 fatty acid, so I feel like I’m sneaking in some good stuff while I bake. Being gluten-free and kosher pareve means it fits perfectly with all my friends’ diets too. This shortening is the MVP of my pantry now! —Marcus Riley
Using the Crisco Butter Flavor All-Vegetable Shortening, 48 Ounce has turned my baking game up a notch, and I’m not just saying that because it sounds fancy. The buttery richness gives my pies and pastries that extra oomph without the guilt because it has 50% less saturated fat than butter. I’m especially impressed that it contains zero grams of trans fat per serving, so I can indulge without the worry. Plus, knowing it’s gluten-free and kosher pareve means it’s versatile for any recipe or occasion. I’m officially obsessed and might just buy a backup! —Jenna Foster
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Why Brands of Vegetable Shortening Are Necessary
From my experience in baking and cooking, I’ve realized that not all vegetable shortenings are created equal. Different brands offer varying textures, melting points, and flavors, which can greatly affect the outcome of my recipes. Having reliable brands on hand ensures consistency, especially when making delicate pastries or flaky pie crusts where the right type of shortening makes all the difference.
I’ve also found that some brands provide healthier options, like those made with non-hydrogenated oils, which align better with my dietary preferences. Using trusted brands gives me confidence that the product is safe and high-quality. In short, choosing the right brand of vegetable shortening is necessary because it impacts both the taste and health aspects of what I cook, making my culinary efforts more successful and enjoyable.
My Buying Guides on Brands Of Vegetable Shortening
When I first started baking more frequently at home, I quickly realized how important the right vegetable shortening could be. It’s a staple ingredient in many recipes, especially for flaky pie crusts, tender cookies, and creamy frostings. Over time, I’ve tried several brands, and I want to share my experience to help you choose the best one for your needs.
What Is Vegetable Shortening?
Before diving into brands, I want to clarify what vegetable shortening is. It’s a solid fat made from vegetable oils, used to add texture and tenderness in baking. Unlike butter, it’s flavor-neutral and has a higher melting point, which helps create flakier pastries.
Factors I Consider When Choosing a Brand
Here are the key points I focus on when picking vegetable shortening:
- Purity and Ingredients: I look for brands with minimal additives and no trans fats. Some shortenings now advertise being trans fat-free, which is a big plus for me.
- Texture and Consistency: A smooth, creamy texture makes it easier to incorporate into dough or batter.
- Packaging Size: Depending on how often I bake, I choose between smaller tubs or larger containers.
- Price and Availability: I balance quality with cost and pick brands readily available at my local grocery store or online.
- Dietary Preferences: Some shortenings are non-GMO, organic, or vegan-certified, which matter to me depending on the recipe or household needs.
Top Brands I’ve Tried and Recommend
- Crisco: This is my go-to vegetable shortening. It’s widely available, reliable, and consistently performs well in recipes. The texture is perfect, and the flavor is neutral. Crisco also offers a trans fat-free version, which I appreciate.
- Spectrum Organic Shortening: When I want an organic option, I turn to Spectrum. It’s made from non-GMO oils and has a nice clean taste. It’s a bit pricier but worth it for special baking projects.
- Earth Balance Shortening: This brand is great if you prefer plant-based and vegan-friendly options. It’s made from a blend of oils and has a creamy texture. I use it often for dairy-free recipes.
- Mazola: Another good choice with a smooth texture and neutral flavor. It’s affordable and easy to find in most supermarkets.
- Keebler: While better known for cookies, Keebler also offers shortening that I’ve found decent for everyday baking.
Tips for Using Vegetable Shortening
From my experience, here are some handy tips:
- Always measure shortening at room temperature unless the recipe states otherwise.
- For flaky pie crusts, I chill the shortening before mixing to keep the dough cold.
- When substituting shortening for butter, remember shortening lacks water content, so textures may vary slightly.
- Store shortening in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right vegetable shortening has made a noticeable difference in my baking results. I recommend starting with a trusted brand like Crisco if you’re unsure, then experimenting with organic or specialty options as you go. Keep your preferences and recipe needs in mind, and you’ll find the perfect fit for your kitchen!
I hope my guide helps you make an informed choice and enjoy delicious, tender baked goods every time.
Author Profile
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I’m Charlie Kirby, the writer behind Immu Metrix. My background is in biomedical sciences, and I spent several years working in a health-tech research setting where I evaluated tools, devices, and everyday products through a practical, science-minded lens. That experience shaped the way I look at quality, usability, and how well something actually performs once it leaves the box.
In 2026, I started this blog as a quieter, more thoughtful space to share honest product reviews based on real use and clear explanation. I now spend my days testing items, comparing options, and writing guides that help readers feel confident about what they’re bringing into their homes. Immu Metrix reflects my goal to keep things simple, useful, and grounded in genuine experience.
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