Margarine vs Shortening

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

Quick answer

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

Side-by-side

Margarine

Base unit: cup

Read the full guide: Margarine

Shortening

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

Tags: none

Notes: Direct 1:1 replacement that produces flakier pastries and cookies. May require slight liquid reduction in some recipes.

Read the full guide: Shortening

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When to use Shortening instead of Margarine

Direct 1:1 replacement that produces flakier pastries and cookies. May require slight liquid reduction in some recipes. The conversion is 1:1 substitution (use the same amount).

Common questions

Can I substitute Shortening for Margarine?

Yes — Direct 1:1 replacement that produces flakier pastries and cookies. May require slight liquid reduction in some recipes. Ratio: 1:1 substitution (use the same amount).

What's the conversion ratio for Margarine to Shortening?

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

Are Margarine and Shortening interchangeable?

They are similar in most uses, but Direct 1:1 replacement that produces flakier pastries and cookies..

Is Shortening a better substitute than other options for Margarine?

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

Looking for more Margarine substitutes beyond Shortening?

See all Margarine swaps →