Hi Ratio Shortening

[PattiCakes]

Does anyone have any feedback comparing the Alpine Hi Ratio Shortening versus the Sweetex icing? There is quite a big price difference and I'm just wondering why. I've used the Alpine successfully...way better than regular shortening.

Also, I heard a rumor that Alpine will be going 0 trans fat soon...can anyone confirm?

Any info would be great!!!

Thanks!

[pastrymama]

Alpine seems lighter to me. When I used it instead of Sweetex I had to cut back on the liquid in my icing. It tastes good, but the icing didn't seem as stable.

[puzzlegut]

I've only used Sweetex and I really like it. My frosting turns out very nice.

[MAK]

I've talked to Sharon [Sugarshack] about this a couple times. She will not use anything except Sweetex. I've never used Alpine, but Jeff Arnett [the guy with the rose former board - you know the one with the spoons?] I want to say he preferred the Alpine. I've used the Sweetex and it's SO nice. I'm so tempted to order the Alpine, but I've got a wedding coming up really soon and I don't want any "surprises".....kwim?

[cakebaker]

I've never tried Sweetex, but the Alpine gave me such terrific results I don't think I will anytime soon.

[MAK]

What other cake people have told me is that Alpine is lighter and when they used it, they had more problems with air bubbles. Another person's opinion was that icing with Alpine wasn't as stable as with the Sweetex.

I don't have any experience with Alpine, so I can't verify either statement. Just the messenger here!

[Sugarshack]

The alpine is very good, but just not as good as sweetex, IMO< as far as performance of the icing. JMHO

[karensue]

I sent an email to Tom Bandler with ACH foods to ask him what the difference between Sweetex and Alpine shortening was and he sent me the following:

The Sweetex is a cake and icing shortening while the Alpine is designed only for icings. The Alpine also isn’t as forgiving as the Sweetex ie. you can’t get away as easily with under or over mixing – The Sweetex is more tolerant and has a wider mixing range……

I thought this information was very helpful.

Karen

[2sdae]

very helpful in deed.

[psanders76]

Ive used Alpine and it works great. I havent tried Sweetex yet and dont plan on it since I like the way the Alpine works for me.