Abstract: The shortening substitute contains a mixture of 1-10% by weight pregelatinized, unmodified starch; 5-15% by weight pregelatinized, modified high amylopectin starch; 5-10% by weight emulsifier; 5-25% by weight shortening; and a remainder of water. The modified, high amylopectin starch is either a crosslinked, hydroxypropylated starch or a crosslinked, esterified starch, both of which have an amylopectin content of 95% or more. Plasticizer in an amount of 0.1-1% by weight and a maltodextrin in an amount of 1-20% by weight can be incorporated into the mixture. The shortening substitute can be used as a replacement for conventional shortening in a baked good and is especially suited for use as a roll-in shortening for laminated pastries.