🥧 Baking

Cake Flour Substitutes: Best Alternatives for Baking

Discover the best cake flour substitutes including homemade options, gluten-free alternatives, and perfect ratios for light, tender baked goods.

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Quick Answer

The best cake flour substitute is homemade: 1 cup all-purpose flour minus 2 tablespoons, plus 2 tablespoons cornstarch. For gluten-free: use 1 cup gluten-free flour blend minus 2 tablespoons, plus 2 tablespoons cornstarch. This creates the same low-protein, fine texture as cake flour.

Best Substitutes

All-Purpose Flour + Cornstarch

1 cup AP flour - 2 tbsp + 2 tbsp cornstarch

Homemade cake flour using all-purpose flour and cornstarch

Best for:

cakescupcakesmuffinsquick breadscookies

Sift together thoroughly, reduces protein content for tender texture

Gluten-Free Flour + Cornstarch

1 cup GF flour - 2 tbsp + 2 tbsp cornstarch

Gluten-free version of cake flour substitute

Best for:

gluten-free cakescupcakesmuffinscookies

Use certified gluten-free flour blend, sift together

Pastry Flour

1:1

Low-protein flour similar to cake flour

Best for:

cakespastriestender baked goods

Harder to find but closest to cake flour texture

All-Purpose Flour (sifted)

1:1

Sifted all-purpose flour for lighter texture

Best for:

cakescupcakesmuffins

Sift 3-4 times, works in a pinch but not ideal

Almond Flour + Arrowroot

3/4 cup almond flour + 1/4 cup arrowroot

Low-carb, gluten-free cake flour substitute

Best for:

keto cakesgluten-free cakeslow-carb baking

Add extra leavening, may need more eggs for binding

Cooking Tips

  • 💡For the best results, sift the flour and cornstarch together 3-4 times
  • 💡Measure the flour after sifting, not before
  • 💡When using almond flour, add 1/4 tsp xanthan gum per cup for better binding
  • 💡For gluten-free baking, ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free
  • 💡Cake flour substitute works best in recipes that don't require strong gluten development
  • 💡Store homemade cake flour substitute in an airtight container
  • 💡For extra tender results, use cake flour substitute with buttermilk or sour cream
  • 💡Test the substitute in a small batch before using in important recipes

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best substitute for cake flour?

The best substitute is homemade: 1 cup all-purpose flour minus 2 tablespoons, plus 2 tablespoons cornstarch. Sift together thoroughly for the same light, tender texture as cake flour.

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of cake flour?

Yes, but for best results, use the homemade substitute: 1 cup all-purpose flour minus 2 tablespoons, plus 2 tablespoons cornstarch. Sift together thoroughly.

How do I make cake flour substitute?

Mix 1 cup all-purpose flour minus 2 tablespoons with 2 tablespoons cornstarch. Sift together 3-4 times to ensure even distribution and lighter texture.

Is there a gluten-free substitute for cake flour?

Yes, use 1 cup gluten-free flour blend minus 2 tablespoons, plus 2 tablespoons cornstarch. Sift together thoroughly for the same light texture.

What's the difference between cake flour and all-purpose flour?

Cake flour has lower protein content (7-9%) and is finer milled, creating lighter, more tender baked goods. All-purpose flour has higher protein (10-12%) and creates denser results.

Summary

Discover the best cake flour substitutes including homemade options and gluten-free alternatives. Perfect ratios for light, tender baked goods every time.