Lard Substitute for Shortening: Exact Ratio
Looking for a shortening substitute? Lard works as a direct replacement. Use 1 cup lard per 1 cup shortening in any recipe that calls for shortening. This swap works best for pie crusts, biscuits, tamales.
Best Substitute
Lard
1 cup lard per 1 cup shortening
Works 1:1 and produces the flakiest pie crusts. Lard is slightly softer, so chill before using in pastry. Adds a mild savory flavor.
Tips When Replacing Shortening in Recipes
Shortening's key advantage is that it is 100% fat with a high melting point, creating very flaky, tender baked goods. Many bakers use a 50/50 blend of butter and shortening for pie crust—butter for flavor and shortening for flakiness. Keep all solid fat substitutes cold for best pastry results.
What Is Shortening and Why Substitute It?
A solid, white vegetable fat (typically hydrogenated soybean oil) used in baking for flaky pie crusts, tender cakes, and crisp cookies. It is 100% fat with no water or milk solids.
Lard is one of 5 alternatives you can use instead of shortening. For a complete list of shortening substitutes with ratios and cooking tips, visit the full shortening substitute page.
What Else Can I Use Instead of Shortening?
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use lard instead of shortening?
Yes, you can use lard as a substitute for shortening. Use 1 cup lard per 1 cup shortening. Works 1:1 and produces the flakiest pie crusts. Lard is slightly softer, so chill before using in pastry. Adds a mild savory flavor.
How much lard equals shortening?
Use 1 cup lard per 1 cup shortening to replace shortening with lard. Works best for pie crusts, biscuits, tamales.
What is the best substitute for shortening?
Lard is a popular substitute for shortening. Use 1 cup lard per 1 cup shortening for a 1-to-1 replacement. See all 5 alternatives on our shortening substitute page.