How can you cream shortening and sugar?

Shortening and sugar can easily be creamed together using the beaters of a handheld mixer or the paddle attachment of a stand mixer. Shortening that has been cut into pieces and stored at room temperature is fairly soft and easy to cream.

Beating the shortening by itself before adding the sugar is the most efficient way to achieve a smooth consistency. Use the mixer on low at first, then increase its speed as the shortening becomes creamy and somewhat plastic-looking before folding in the sugar a tablespoon or so at a time, and beating it until it is completely blended.