Can you substitute butter for shortening in pizza crust?

You can substitute butter for shortening in pizza crust, but it's not a perfect swap. Here's why:

* Flavor: Butter will add a richer, more buttery flavor to your crust. This can be a good thing if you like that flavor, but it might not be ideal for a more traditional pizza taste.

* Texture: Butter is more likely to melt during baking, which can lead to a softer, less crispy crust. Shortening, on the other hand, is more solid and provides a more tender and flaky texture.

* Moisture: Butter is higher in moisture than shortening. This can affect the dough's texture and potentially lead to a less chewy crust.

Here are some tips for using butter in pizza dough:

* Use unsalted butter: This allows you to control the salt level in the dough.

* Use less butter than the recipe calls for shortening: Start with 75% of the shortening amount and adjust if needed.

* Add the butter cold: This helps prevent it from melting too quickly.

* Knead the dough longer: The extra moisture from the butter might require a bit more kneading to develop the gluten.

Alternatives to butter:

* Olive oil: This adds a nice flavor and is a healthier option.

* Coconut oil: This is a good vegan alternative that provides a similar texture to shortening.

Ultimately, it's up to your personal preference and desired crust texture. You can experiment with using butter in your pizza dough and see what works best for you.