Step 1

Add all ingredients to the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment.

Step 2

Mix on low speed until the flour is moistening, then turn the speed to medium-low and mix until you have a smooth paste. (Alternately, you can use a firm spatula and stir everything together by hand.)

Step 3

Sometimes there will be small chunks of shortening in your pan release. This doesn’t hurt anything, but if it bothers you, heat the pan release in very short intervals in the microwave (5-8 seconds), stirring after each one, until it is melted and smooth.

Step 4

Transfer the pan release to a container and label with the date. Store at room temperature out of direct sunlight. If it separates during storage, simply stir it together again.

Step 5

To use, dip a silicone pastry brush in the pan release and brush a thin, even layer on the bottom and sides of your cake pan before adding any cake batter.