Shortening vs Lard

A side-by-side guide to substituting Lard for Shortening (or vice versa).

Quick answer

Lard works as a 1:1 swap for Shortening in most recipes.

Side-by-side

Shortening

Base unit: cup

Read the full guide: Shortening

Lard

Conversion: 1:1 substitution (use the same amount)

Tags: none

Notes: 1:1 swap. Traditional choice for superior flakiness in pie crusts and biscuits. Neutral flavor with very high fat content.

Read the full guide: Lard

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When to use Lard instead of Shortening

1:1 swap. Traditional choice for superior flakiness in pie crusts and biscuits. Neutral flavor with very high fat content. The conversion is 1:1 substitution (use the same amount).

Common questions

Can I substitute Lard for Shortening?

Yes — 1:1 swap. Traditional choice for superior flakiness in pie crusts and biscuits. Neutral flavor with very high fat content. Ratio: 1:1 substitution (use the same amount).

What's the conversion ratio for Shortening to Lard?

1:1 substitution (use the same amount). For other quantities, use the SubSwap calculator.

Are Shortening and Lard interchangeable?

They are similar in most uses, but 1:1 swap..

Is Lard a better substitute than other options for Shortening?

Lard is one of the options SubSwap lists for Shortening. The 'best' choice depends on your recipe — see the full list of Shortening substitutes.

Looking for more Shortening substitutes beyond Lard?

See all Shortening swaps →