Rice flour substitutes
Rice flour substitutes — 6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use All-purpose flour
Same amount as the rice flour
Similar flour with different ingredients.
The best substitutes for rice flour are all-purpose flour, tapioca flour, or other gluten-free flours like almond flour or coconut flour, depending on the use.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- baking
Updated 26 Jul 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of rice flour | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | All-purpose flourbaking | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Tapioca flourbaking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Almond flourbaking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 4 | Coconut flourbaking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 5 | Potato starchbaking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 6 | Cornstarchbaking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
All-purpose flour
similar taste and texture
Similar flour with different ingredients.
- Best for
- baking, cooking, thickening, binding
Different ingredients, similar texture.
Tapioca flour
different taste, similar texture
Similar gluten-free flour with different flavor.
- Best for
- baking, cooking, thickening, binding
Different flavor, similar texture.
Almond flour
different taste, similar texture
Similar gluten-free flour with different flavor.
- Best for
- baking, cooking, thickening, binding
Different flavor, similar texture.
Coconut flour
different taste, similar texture
Similar gluten-free flour with different flavor.
- Best for
- baking, cooking, thickening, binding
Different flavor, similar texture.
Potato starch
different taste, similar texture
Similar gluten-free flour with different flavor.
- Best for
- baking, cooking, thickening, binding
Different flavor, similar texture.
Cornstarch
different taste, similar texture
Similar gluten-free flour with different flavor.
- Best for
- baking, cooking, thickening, binding
Different flavor, similar texture.
Questions
7 questionsCan I use all-purpose flour instead of rice flour?
Yes, all-purpose flour is a good substitute for rice flour. It has similar texture and can be used in most recipes that call for rice flour.
What's the difference between rice flour and all-purpose flour?
Rice flour is made from ground rice and is gluten-free, while all-purpose flour is made from wheat and contains gluten. Both have similar texture and can be used interchangeably.
Can I use tapioca flour instead of rice flour?
Yes, tapioca flour can work as a substitute, though it may have a different flavor. It has similar texture and can be used in most recipes.
Why is rice flour so popular in gluten-free baking?
Rice flour is popular in gluten-free baking because it's naturally gluten-free and has a neutral flavor that works well in many recipes.
Can I use almond flour instead of rice flour?
Yes, almond flour is a good substitute for rice flour, but it has a different flavor and is higher in protein.
What's the difference between rice flour and almond flour?
Rice flour is made from rice and is neutral in flavor, while almond flour is made from almonds and has a nutty flavor.
Can I use rice flour for thickening?
Yes, rice flour is commonly used for thickening sauces and soups, especially in Asian cooking.
Tips for substituting rice flour
10 tips- Rice flour adds neutral flavor and light texture to dishes
- Rice flour can be used in both sweet and savory dishes
- Rice flour pairs well with herbs, spices, and vegetables
- Rice flour works well in baking and cooking
- Rice flour can be used to make gluten-free baked goods
- Store rice flour in an airtight container
- Rice flour is gluten-free and commonly used in Asian cooking
- It's great for making crispy coatings and thickening sauces
- Rice flour has a neutral flavor and fine texture
- It pairs well with other gluten-free flours in baking