If a cake recipe calls for "Crisco"

[geezee]

does that mean vegetable shortening? or can i use vegetable oil instead?

[rasputina]

You can also substitute lard for shortening.

[magiesmom]

or coconut oil, solid at room temp.

[Hank Hanover]

Use vegetable shortening. When a baking recipe calls for shortening or butter and shortening, they are looking for a particular texture. If you want to substitute it, use butter. This will still change the texture slightly but not as much oil and it will taste better.

[geezee]

Thanks! I will use butter and hope for the best.

[mels]

Crisco does mean vegetable shortening. I wouldn't swap them out, as shortening has a different melting point than plain oil.