Baking Revolution: Delicious Recipes Featuring New Avocado Oil Shortening
Avocado oil has taken the culinary world by storm, prized for its mild flavor, high smoke point, and impressive health benefits. Now, avocado oil shortening is poised to do the same for baking. This revolutionary ingredient offers a healthier alternative to traditional shortening and butter, without sacrificing the delightful textures and flavors we crave in our baked goods. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the wonders of avocado oil shortening, delve into its benefits, and provide you with mouthwatering recipes to showcase its versatility. Get ready to transform your baking game!
## What is Avocado Oil Shortening?
Avocado oil shortening is made from refined avocado oil that has been processed to a semi-solid state at room temperature. Similar to other vegetable shortenings, it is generally flavorless and odorless, allowing the natural flavors of your ingredients to shine through. The process involves hydrogenation or interesterification, which modifies the oil’s molecular structure to achieve the desired consistency.
## Why Choose Avocado Oil Shortening?
Avocado oil shortening offers several advantages over traditional baking fats:
* **Healthier Fat Profile:** Avocado oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, known for their heart-healthy benefits. It also contains antioxidants and vitamins. Compared to traditional shortening, which can be high in trans fats, avocado oil shortening presents a healthier option.
* **Mild Flavor:** Unlike butter, which contributes its distinctive flavor to baked goods, avocado oil shortening has a neutral taste. This allows the other ingredients in your recipes, such as vanilla, chocolate, or spices, to take center stage.
* **High Smoke Point:** Avocado oil has a high smoke point, meaning it can withstand high temperatures without breaking down and producing harmful compounds. This makes it ideal for baking and frying.
* **Vegan-Friendly:** Avocado oil shortening is a plant-based product, making it suitable for vegan and vegetarian diets.
* **Improved Texture:** Avocado oil shortening can contribute to a tender and flaky texture in baked goods, particularly pastries and pie crusts.
## How to Use Avocado Oil Shortening in Baking
Replacing butter or traditional shortening with avocado oil shortening is generally straightforward. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
* **Substitution Ratio:** In most recipes, you can substitute avocado oil shortening for butter or traditional shortening in a 1:1 ratio.
* **Temperature:** Ensure the avocado oil shortening is at the correct temperature for the recipe. For example, for flaky pie crusts, it should be cold. For cakes, it should be softened but not melted.
* **Creaming:** When creaming avocado oil shortening with sugar, make sure to beat it until light and fluffy. This will incorporate air into the mixture, resulting in a lighter and more tender final product.
* **Storage:** Store avocado oil shortening in a cool, dark place. Once opened, it should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
## Delicious Recipes Featuring Avocado Oil Shortening
Now, let’s dive into some mouthwatering recipes that showcase the versatility of avocado oil shortening:
### 1. Flaky Avocado Oil Pie Crust
This recipe produces a tender, flaky pie crust that’s perfect for sweet and savory pies. The avocado oil shortening ensures a light and delicate texture.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1 cup (2 sticks) cold avocado oil shortening, cubed
* 6-8 tablespoons ice water
**Instructions:**
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
2. Add the cold avocado oil shortening cubes to the flour mixture. Using a pastry blender or your fingers, cut the shortening into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. It’s important to work quickly to prevent the shortening from melting.
3. Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently after each addition. Stop adding water when the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix.
4. Form the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
5. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a 12-inch circle. Transfer the dough to a 9-inch pie plate. Trim the edges and crimp decoratively.
6. Fill the pie crust with your desired filling and bake according to the filling’s instructions. For a blind-baked crust, prick the bottom with a fork, line with parchment paper, fill with pie weights, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
### 2. Avocado Oil Chocolate Chip Cookies
These chocolate chip cookies are soft, chewy, and perfectly balanced. The avocado oil shortening adds a subtle richness without overpowering the chocolate flavor.
**Ingredients:**
* ¾ cup (1 ½ sticks) avocado oil shortening, softened
* ¾ cup granulated sugar
* ¾ cup packed brown sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 2 cups chocolate chips
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened avocado oil shortening, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
6. Stir in the chocolate chips.
7. Drop by rounded tablespoons onto the prepared baking sheets.
8. Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
9. Let cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
### 3. Vanilla Avocado Oil Cake
This vanilla cake is moist, tender, and bursting with vanilla flavor. The avocado oil shortening ensures a delicate crumb and a perfectly balanced sweetness.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
* 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
* ½ teaspoon salt
* 1 cup (2 sticks) avocado oil shortening, softened
* 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
* 1 ¼ cups milk
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the softened avocado oil shortening and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting onto a wire rack to cool completely. Frost with your favorite vanilla frosting.
### 4. Avocado Oil Shortening Biscuits
These biscuits are light, fluffy, and perfect for breakfast or as a side dish. The avocado oil shortening creates a tender crumb and a slightly crisp exterior.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 tablespoon baking powder
* ½ teaspoon salt
* ½ cup (1 stick) cold avocado oil shortening, cubed
* ¾ cup milk
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the cold avocado oil shortening cubes to the flour mixture. Using a pastry blender or your fingers, cut the shortening into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Gradually add the milk, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a ¾-inch thick rectangle.
6. Use a biscuit cutter or a knife to cut out biscuits.
7. Place the biscuits onto the prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
9. Serve warm with butter, jam, or honey.
### 5. Avocado Oil Shortening Sugar Cookies
These sugar cookies are perfect for decorating and gifting. The avocado oil shortening provides a tender texture and a neutral flavor, allowing the decorations to shine.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup (2 sticks) avocado oil shortening, softened
* 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 3 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking powder
* ½ teaspoon salt
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened avocado oil shortening and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
6. Divide the dough in half, flatten each half into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
7. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to ¼-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes.
8. Place the cookies onto the prepared baking sheets.
9. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
10. Let cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Decorate with your favorite frosting and sprinkles.
### 6. Avocado Oil Cornbread
This cornbread is moist, slightly sweet, and has a wonderful crumb. Using avocado oil shortening instead of butter adds a subtle richness and helps to keep the cornbread from drying out.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup all-purpose flour
* 1 cup yellow cornmeal
* 1/4 cup granulated sugar
* 1 tablespoon baking powder
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1 large egg
* 1 cup milk
* 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) avocado oil shortening, melted
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and milk.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Stir in the melted avocado oil shortening.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let cool in the pan for a few minutes before cutting into squares and serving.
### 7. Avocado Oil Banana Bread
This banana bread is incredibly moist, flavorful, and perfect for using up overripe bananas. The avocado oil shortening adds a subtle richness and tenderizes the crumb.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) avocado oil shortening, softened
* 3/4 cup granulated sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2-3 bananas)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the softened avocado oil shortening and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
5. In a separate bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork.
6. Add the mashed bananas to the creamed mixture and stir to combine.
7. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly.
9. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting onto a wire rack to cool completely.
### 8. Avocado Oil Muffins
These muffins are a delicious and versatile breakfast or snack option. Using avocado oil shortening keeps them moist and provides a healthier alternative to butter.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar
* 2 teaspoons baking powder
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1 large egg
* 1 cup milk
* 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) avocado oil shortening, melted
* Optional: 1 cup of your favorite add-ins (berries, chocolate chips, nuts, etc.)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and milk.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Stir in the melted avocado oil shortening.
6. Gently fold in your favorite add-ins, if using.
7. Fill the muffin liners about 2/3 full.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Let cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
### 9. Avocado Oil Fried Donuts
Indulge in homemade donuts fried in avocado oil for a slightly healthier twist. The high smoke point of the oil makes it ideal for frying, and it imparts a subtle richness to the donuts.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 package (1/4 ounce) active dry yeast
* 1/4 cup warm water (105-115°F)
* 1/4 cup granulated sugar
* 1/2 cup milk, warmed
* 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) avocado oil shortening, melted
* 1 large egg
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 3 1/2 – 4 cups all-purpose flour
* Avocado oil, for frying
**Instructions:**
1. In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Add 1 teaspoon of the sugar and let stand for 5-10 minutes, or until foamy.
2. In a large bowl, combine the remaining sugar, warmed milk, melted avocado oil shortening, egg, and salt. Stir in the yeast mixture.
3. Gradually add the flour, starting with 3 1/2 cups, mixing until a soft dough forms. You may need to add more flour until the dough is no longer sticky.
4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1-1 1/2 hours, or until doubled in size.
6. Punch down the dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll out to 1/2-inch thickness.
7. Use a donut cutter or two different sized round cookie cutters to cut out donut shapes.
8. Place the donuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover and let rise for 30-45 minutes, or until puffy.
9. Heat avocado oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
10. Carefully drop the donuts into the hot oil, a few at a time. Fry for 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
11. Remove the donuts with a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack to drain. Let cool slightly before glazing or coating with sugar.
### 10. Avocado Oil Shortening Vegan Brownies
These vegan brownies are rich, fudgy, and decadent. Avocado oil shortening provides moisture and a tender crumb without the need for butter or eggs.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup all-purpose flour
* 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
* 1 teaspoon baking powder
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) avocado oil shortening, melted
* 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/2 cup vegan chocolate chips (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch square baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the sugar, melted avocado oil shortening, applesauce, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Stir in the vegan chocolate chips, if using.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached.
7. Let cool in the pan before cutting into squares and serving.
## Tips for Baking Success with Avocado Oil Shortening
* **Don’t Overmix:** Overmixing can develop the gluten in flour, resulting in tough baked goods. Mix until just combined.
* **Use Quality Ingredients:** The quality of your ingredients will impact the final product. Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results.
* **Adjust Baking Time:** Depending on your oven, you may need to adjust the baking time slightly. Keep a close eye on your baked goods and test for doneness with a wooden skewer.
* **Experiment with Flavors:** Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and ingredients. Avocado oil shortening’s neutral taste allows you to create a wide variety of delicious baked goods.
## Conclusion
Avocado oil shortening is a game-changer in the world of baking, offering a healthier, more versatile alternative to traditional fats. With its mild flavor, high smoke point, and ability to create tender textures, it’s the perfect ingredient for everything from flaky pie crusts to moist cakes. So, embrace the baking revolution and start experimenting with avocado oil shortening today! Your taste buds (and your heart) will thank you.
This guide provided various recipes and tips to using avocado oil successfully in the kitchen. So, happy baking, and enjoy the revolution brought to you by avocado oil!