You need the shortening properties to create a light and fluffy texture when making frosting. However, many people nowadays prefer other alternatives, and one of these alternatives is coconut oil. While coconut oil works as a shortening substitute in cooking and baking, you may wonder if it works the same when you make the frosting. So, you may ask:
Can I substitute coconut oil for shortening in frosting? Yes, you can substitute coconut oil for shortening in frosting. Coconut oil has a similar texture to shortening. Thus, you can achieve a light and airy frosting when you use this product as an alternative to shortening.
People prefer other alternatives to shortening for two main reasons. It’s either they don’t have shortening in their kitchen or want something lower in trans fat. Whenever you make the frosting, coconut oil is a great choice.
One thing to note is that there will be a slight change in texture, so learning about these changes can help you adjust your recipe. For fluffy and light frosting, shortening needs to have the same texture and properties as frosting.
Here is our in-depth look at how you can use coconut oil as an alternative to frosting and adjust your recipe to make your frosting even without shortening. If you don’t want to use shortening and prefer healthier alternatives such as coconut oil, you can make the necessary adjustments through your preparation.
Without further ado, let’s get into it!
Table of Contents
Can I use coconut oil instead of shortening in frosting?
Yes, you can use coconut oil instead of shortening in frosting. Generally speaking, you can substitute coconut oil for shortening in frosting. Even shortening and lard deliver far less fat to the body than coconut oil.
Similarly, you can substitute coconut oil for butter or margarine in the same way. You will also notice that coconut oil has a similar consistency to butter.
Coconut oil is considered a healthier substitute for shortening due to its healthy fat content, even if it has more fat than shortening.
In general, the result is likely to look very similar to butter. However, it is also important to note that coconut oil sometimes has a coconut flavor, so you might notice a slight hint of coconut if you use it.
Can coconut oil be substituted for butter in frosting?
Yes, you can substitute coconut oil for butter in the frosting. When you don’t want to use butter, you can use coconut oil, which has a similar texture to shortening. Another advantage of coconut oil is that it is vegan-friendly.
If you use coconut oil as an alternative to butter in the frosting, remember that the frosting will have a hint of coconut flavor. It can be a welcome taste for some, while for others, it may be a turnoff.
If you belong to the second group, you can opt for refined coconut oil instead of unrefined. With this method, you will also get a subtle flavor as you would with shortening.
It is also recommended that when making your frosting, you do not allow the coconut oil to melt completely. The ideal temperature would be room temperature since the liquid will not be solid, but it will not be completely fluid.
What does shortening do in frosting?
With the help of shortening, you can create a light and fluffy frosting and provide a neutral flavor that helps cut the richness of the butter. In other words, if you don’t have shortening, or if you don’t want to use that, you need to compensate for the absence of the fat that creates lightness and fluffiness in your frosting.
Summary
In a nutshell, you can make frosting with coconut oil instead of shortening. The consistency of coconut oil is very similar to that of shortening. Thus, if you use this product as an alternative to shortening, you will be able to achieve a light and airy frosting.
People tend to use other alternatives to shortening for two main reasons, and they are both good reasons. Either there is a preference for something that has a lower trans fat content, or there is a lack of access to shortening in their kitchens. Regardless, coconut oil can be used as a substitute for butter if you’re making frosting.
Resources
Image credits – Canva
