Tapioca flour substitutes
Tapioca flour substitutes — 6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Cornstarch
Same amount as the tapioca flour
Similar starch flour with similar binding properties.
The best substitutes for tapioca flour are cornstarch, arrowroot powder, or other starch flours like potato starch or rice flour, depending on the use.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- baking
Updated 17 Sep 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of tapioca flour | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cornstarchbaking | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Arrowroot powderbaking | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 3 | Potato starchbaking | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 4 | Rice flourbaking | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 5 | Coconut flourbaking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 6 | Almond flourbaking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
Cornstarch
similar taste and texture
Similar starch flour with similar binding properties.
- Best for
- baking, cooking, thickening, binding
Similar binding properties, similar texture.
Arrowroot powder
similar taste and texture
Similar starch flour with similar binding properties.
- Best for
- baking, cooking, thickening, binding
Similar binding properties, similar texture.
Potato starch
similar taste and texture
Similar starch flour with similar binding properties.
- Best for
- baking, cooking, thickening, binding
Similar binding properties, similar texture.
Rice flour
similar taste and texture
Similar flour with different binding properties.
- Best for
- baking, cooking, thickening, binding
Different binding properties, similar texture.
Coconut flour
different taste, similar texture
Similar flour with different binding properties.
- Best for
- baking, cooking, thickening, binding
Different binding properties, similar texture.
Almond flour
different taste, similar texture
Similar flour with different binding properties.
- Best for
- baking, cooking, thickening, binding
Different binding properties, similar texture.
Questions
6 questionsCan I use cornstarch instead of tapioca flour?
Yes, cornstarch is a good substitute for tapioca flour. It has similar binding properties and can be used in most recipes that call for tapioca flour.
What's the difference between tapioca flour and cornstarch?
Tapioca flour is made from cassava root and has a neutral flavor, while cornstarch is made from corn and has a similar neutral flavor. Both have similar binding properties.
Can I use arrowroot powder instead of tapioca flour?
Yes, arrowroot powder can work as a substitute, though it may have a different texture. It has similar binding properties and can be used in most recipes.
Why is tapioca flour so popular in gluten-free baking?
Tapioca flour is popular in gluten-free baking because it adds binding properties and neutral flavor that helps create the texture of traditional baked goods.
What's the difference between tapioca flour and tapioca starch?
Tapioca flour and tapioca starch are the same product - they're both made from cassava root and have identical properties.
Can I use tapioca flour for bread?
Yes, tapioca flour is great for gluten-free breads as it helps create a chewy, elastic texture.
Tips for substituting tapioca flour
9 tips- Tapioca flour adds binding properties and neutral flavor to dishes
- Tapioca flour can be used in both sweet and savory dishes
- Tapioca flour pairs well with herbs, spices, and vegetables
- Tapioca flour works well in baking and cooking
- Tapioca flour can be used to make gluten-free baked goods
- Store tapioca flour in an airtight container
- Tapioca flour is the same as tapioca starch
- It creates a chewy, elastic texture in baked goods
- Great for gluten-free breads and Asian desserts