
Shortening is a solid fat used in baking to create flaky, tender pie crusts and biscuits. It is typically made from hydrogenated vegetable oils like soybean, palm, or cottonseed oil, and is a staple in American home baking.
Shortening is 100% fat, containing no carbohydrates, protein, or fiber. A single tablespoon provides about 120 calories, primarily from polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats.
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 0 g |
| Carbs | 0 g |
| Fat | 14 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugar | 0 g |
| Sodium | 0 mg |
| Vitamin E | 1.2 mg |
| Vitamin K | 5 mcg |
Per 1 tablespoon (14 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
Shortening was invented in the early 1900s as a shelf-stable, plant-based alternative to lard. Its name comes from the baking term 'shortening,' which refers to any fat that inhibits gluten formation, making pastries tender.