Guide Note

Vegetable shortening is a semi-solid fat made from vegetable oils, such as soybean and cottonseed oil. Shortening adds lightness to pie crust and other baked goodies, but it does not have as much natural flavor as butter. Many types of cooking shortening contain trans-fats, though some brands have created trans-fat free shortenings.

Fast Facts

1. There are 1,845 Calories in 1 cup
2. Crisco brand was first produced in 1911
3. Can be used in baking cookies and cakes
4. Has a 100% fat content
5. Usually contain trans-fats
6. Store in refrigerator, or at room temperature for easier blending
7. Can go rancid--check expiration dates
8. Solid at room temperature
9. Higher smoke point than butter
10. Can substitute for butter or margarine in most recipes