why do some pound cakes recipes ask for butter and shortening in it?

Answer 1

Believe it or not, although butter tastes better, shortening creates a better texture in cakes. I think it is because shortening can hold a little more air than butter when creamed. So when a recipe calls for half butter and half shortening, it is to make the cake have a nice flavor and texture.

Answer 2

The older the recipe, the more likely you'll find butter, lard or shortening instead of Crisco, margarine or vegetable oil. They went with the ingredients they had on hand. Taste can be affected by substitution, so gradual substitution works best when switching to today's products.

Answer 3

You could just use an equal amount of margarine or all butter the point is to make the cake as rich as possible.

Answer 4

they make:
golden crust that is perfect for frosting
NO crumbs.
When the cake is cut into, you can see the moistness!