This study revealed the functional differences of different
shortening treatments on cookie quality attributes. Traditional allpurpose
shortening displayed superior shortening functionality
when compared to a monoglyceride stabilized oil in water emulsion,
as seen through a variety of quality attributes, such as greater spread,
lower break strength, and greater dough firmness values. Differences
in the functionality of shortening between Crisco and the MAG gel
and its unstructured components are likely attributed to the decreased amount of lipid present in the monoglyceride systems.
The structured monoglyceride emulsion influenced cookie quality
attributes in a different manner than its unstructured components,
with the structured gel maintaining greater dough firmness, and
decreased spread values compared to its unstructured components.
With knowledge of the functional differences between the structured
monoglyceride emulsion and all-purpose shortening, further strategies
can be developed to limit the functional gaps and create healthier
baked products.