Pick substitutes that preserve tenderness, aeration, and even rise in cake batters. Cake structure depends on balanced fat, sugar, and hydration. Wrong swaps can create a dense or dry crumb.
Reviewed by the CupOrGram Editorial TeamSources: King Arthur Baking, USDA FoodData CentralMethodology
Can I make a cake without vegetable shortening?
Yes. Start with Butter at 1 cup shortening = 1 cup + 2 tbsp butter, then adjust liquid or bake time in small steps after a test batch.
Top Recommendation
Butter
Use 1 cup shortening = 1 cup + 2 tbsp butter
Butter's water adds flavour but reduces flakiness. Chill the dough well.
How much does 1 cup of vegetable shortening weigh?
On CupOrGram, 1 cup of vegetable shortening is treated as 205 grams. Use the conversion page if you want the original ingredient weight before choosing a substitute.
What can I use instead of vegetable shortening for cake?
Butter at 1 cup shortening = 1 cup + 2 tbsp butter is the closest match — Butter's water adds flavour but reduces flakiness. Chill the dough well. If that is unavailable, Lard (1:1) or Coconut Oil (refined, solid) (1:1).