Can you substitute butter for shortening? Sure; I’d use 1/2 cup butter, since it includes milk solids as well as fat. Your cookies won’t be as crunchy, but if you’re OK with a bit of soft chew, go for it.
Irresistible Peanut Butter Cookies
FAQ
What can I substitute for shortening in cookies?
Margarine and butter can both be used as a substitute for shortening, though their moisture contents should be taken into consideration before making the swap. While shortening is 100% fat, margarine and butter contain a small percentage of water (so, shortening adds more fat, thus more richness and tenderness).
What happens if you don’t put shortening in cookies?
Cookies made with butter or margarine may be softer and spread a little more. Cookies made with butter are usually crispier than chewy cookies made with shortening, but the flavor is richer with butter. So a one-to-one butter swap will work great if you need a shortening substitute for cookies.
Is it better to use butter or shortening in cookies?
Which One Should I Use in Cookies? Basically, cookies made with butter spread more and are flatter and crisper if baked long enough. However, they are more flavorful than cookies made with shortening. Cookies made with shortening bake up taller and are more tender, but aren’t as flavorful.
Can I substitute oil for shortening?
If a recipe calls for melted shortening, vegetable oil is a good swap. Just don’t use vegetable oil as a shortening substitute in recipes like pie dough, biscuits, or scones—you won’t get pockets of fat, so the dough won’t puff up properly.