Shortening Substitute for Lard: Exact Ratio
Looking for a lard substitute? Shortening works as a direct replacement. Use 1 cup shortening per 1 cup lard in any recipe that calls for lard. This swap works best for pie crusts, biscuits, frying.
Best Substitute
Shortening
1 cup shortening per 1 cup lard
The closest substitute in terms of texture and behavior. Works 1:1. Produces similar flakiness without the pork flavor. Most commonly used swap.
Tips When Replacing Lard in Recipes
Leaf lard, rendered from the fat around pig kidneys, is the premium choice for baking—it has almost no pork flavor and creates the flakiest pie crusts. Regular lard has a slight pork taste that works well in savory recipes. For the flakiest pastry, keep lard and all solid fat substitutes as cold as possible.
What Is Lard and Why Substitute It?
Rendered pork fat used in traditional baking and cooking. Prized for creating exceptionally flaky pie crusts and tender baked goods. Available as leaf lard (from kidney fat, mildest flavor) and regular lard.
Shortening is one of 5 alternatives you can use instead of lard. For a complete list of lard substitutes with ratios and cooking tips, visit the full lard substitute page.
What Else Can I Use Instead of Lard?
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use shortening instead of lard?
Yes, you can use shortening as a substitute for lard. Use 1 cup shortening per 1 cup lard. The closest substitute in terms of texture and behavior. Works 1:1. Produces similar flakiness without the pork flavor. Most commonly used swap.
How much shortening equals lard?
Use 1 cup shortening per 1 cup lard to replace lard with shortening. Works best for pie crusts, biscuits, frying.
What is the best substitute for lard?
Shortening is a popular substitute for lard. Use 1 cup shortening per 1 cup lard for a 1-to-1 replacement. See all 5 alternatives on our lard substitute page.
Is shortening a vegan substitute for lard?
Yes, shortening is vegan and works as a plant-based alternative to lard. Use 1 cup shortening per 1 cup lard.