What can I substitute for shortening in pie crust?

These best shortening substitutes won’t give you the exact same texture—but they’ll work in a pinch.

• Shortening Substitute: Butter.
• Shortening Substitute: Coconut Oil.
• Shortening Substitute: Margarine.
• Shortening Substitute: Lard.
• Shortening Substitute: Vegetable Oil.
• Shortening Substitute: Vegan Butter.

What can I use if I don’t have shortening?

Margarine and butter can both be used as a substitute for shortening, though their moisture contents should be taken into consideration before making the swap. While shortening is 100\% fat, margarine and butter contain a small percentage of water (so, shortening adds more fat, thus more richness and tenderness).

Is it better to use butter or shortening for pie crust?

The pros: Shortening has a higher melting point than lard or butter, so it’s easy to incorporate into pie dough and roll out. It’s also helpful when making any kind of decorative pie crust, because doughs made with shortening hold their shape the best during baking.

Can you substitute olive oil for shortening in pie crust?

There is absolutely no problem in making pie crusts with oil instead of butter/shortening. The important thing to remember is that it’s not a 1:1 substitution.

How do you use butter instead of shortening?

No matter what you’re using, use the same amount called for in your recipe. In other words, it should be a one-to-one swap. If your recipe calls for one cup of butter, you can use one cup of shortening and vice versa.

What makes a pie crust tough?

Pie doughs fail when they come out tough, not tender and flaky. Usually due to overworking, this can happen either during the initial mixing or during rolling and shaping. Cold butter is a key to pie dough success. It should be straight-out-of-the-fridge-cold.

Can I use butter instead of shortening?

The answer is yes, butter or shortening can be used interchangeably in baked goods and can be used as a one-to-one swap. Butter contains 80\% butterfat and about 20\% water (naturally occurring). Shortening is 100\% hydrogenated vegetable oil and contains no water.

How much butter do I use instead of shortening?