Cassava flour substitutes
Cassava flour substitutes — 6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Tapioca flour
Same amount as the cassava flour
Made from the same cassava root, tapioca flour has similar properties but finer texture.
The best substitutes for cassava flour are tapioca flour, arrowroot flour, potato starch, or a blend of rice flour with potato starch for similar texture and binding properties.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- baking
Updated 26 Jul 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of cassava flour | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tapioca flourbaking | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Arrowroot flourthickening | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 3 | Potato starchthickening | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 4 | Rice flour + potato starchbaking | 2:1 rice flour to potato starchWorks | Works |
| 5 | Coconut flourbaking | Same amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
| 6 | Almond flourbaking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
Tapioca flour
identical taste, similar texture
Made from the same cassava root, tapioca flour has similar properties but finer texture.
- Best for
- baking, thickening, gluten-free recipes, pancakes
Same source, slightly different processing - very similar results.
Arrowroot flour
identical taste, similar texture
Neutral-flavored starch with excellent binding and thickening properties.
- Best for
- thickening, baking, gluten-free recipes, sauces
Very similar binding properties and neutral flavor.
Potato starch
identical taste, similar texture
Neutral starch with good binding properties and similar texture.
- Best for
- thickening, baking, gluten-free recipes, frying
Slightly different texture but works well in most applications.
Rice flour + potato starch
similar taste and texture
Blend of rice flour with potato starch for similar binding and texture.
- Best for
- baking, pancakes, gluten-free recipes
Adjust liquid content as rice flour absorbs differently.
Coconut flour
different taste and texture
Gluten-free flour with high fiber and good binding properties.
- Best for
- baking, pancakes, gluten-free recipes
Higher fiber content, may need more liquid in recipes.
Almond flour
different taste, similar texture
Nut flour with good binding properties and neutral flavor.
- Best for
- baking, pancakes, gluten-free recipes
Higher fat content, may need less oil in recipes.
Questions
4 questionsWhat's the difference between cassava flour and tapioca flour?
Both are made from cassava root, but cassava flour uses the whole root while tapioca flour uses only the starchy part. Cassava flour has more fiber and protein, while tapioca flour is pure starch.
Can I use cassava flour for making bread?
Yes, cassava flour can be used for making bread, but it works best in flatbreads and quick breads rather than yeast breads, as it doesn't have the gluten structure needed for traditional bread.
Is cassava flour good for thickening sauces?
Yes, cassava flour is excellent for thickening sauces and gravies. It creates a smooth, glossy texture and doesn't add any flavor to the dish.
How do I store cassava flour?
Store cassava flour in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. It can last 6-12 months. You can also store it in the refrigerator or freezer to extend its shelf life.
Tips for substituting cassava flour
10 tips- Cassava flour is naturally gluten-free and grain-free
- It has excellent binding properties, making it great for gluten-free baking
- The flour has a neutral flavor that won't overpower other ingredients
- It's commonly used in Brazilian and other South American cuisines
- Cassava flour can be used to make flatbreads, pancakes, and tortillas
- It's excellent for thickening sauces and gravies
- The flour works well in both sweet and savory applications
- It's a good alternative for those with grain sensitivities
- Cassava flour is high in resistant starch, which is beneficial for gut health
- It can be used as a 1:1 substitute for wheat flour in many recipes