Out of Cake Flour? Try These 3 Easy Swaps
Run out of cake flour mid-recipe? No worries. We've got 3 tried-and-tested substitutes that actually work. Whether you're making a quick weeknight dinner or baking something special, these alternatives will save your dish. The most popular swap is all-purpose flour + cornstarch, which works great in baking recipes. Each substitute below includes exact measurements and tips so you know exactly what to do.
⚡ Quick Answer (30 sec read)
Use All-purpose flour + cornstarch instead. For 1 cup: use 1 cup AP flour minus 2 tbsp, then add 2 tbsp cornstarch. Sift 5 times.
✅ 3 Tested Cake Flour Substitutes (With Exact Ratios)
1. All-purpose flour + cornstarch
BakingFor 1 cup: use 1 cup AP flour minus 2 tbsp, then add 2 tbsp cornstarch. Sift 5 times.
2. All-purpose flour (alone)
BakingUse 1:1 ratio. Slightly less tender but works fine.
3. Pastry flour
BakingUse 1:1 ratio. Very similar protein content.
Tips for Substituting Cake Flour
When substituting cake flour in baking, always consider how the swap affects moisture, fat content, and flavor. Start with the exact ratios given, then adjust in future batches if needed. For best results, bring refrigerated substitutes to room temperature before mixing.
What NOT to Do When Substituting Cake Flour
- xDon't use the same amount without checking the ratio - some substitutes are stronger or weaker than cake flour.
- xDon't substitute in recipes where cake flour is the star ingredient - the difference will be too noticeable.
- xDon't combine multiple substitutes at once - pick one and adjust from there.
Quick Substitution Ratios
| Substitute | Amount for 1 cup Cake Flour | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour + cornstarch | For 1 cup: use 1 cup AP flour minus 2 tbsp, then add 2 tbsp cornstarch | baking |
| All-purpose flour (alone) | Use 1:1 ratio | baking |
| Pastry flour | Use 1:1 ratio | baking |
Safety Tips
- 1.Always check for allergies - if someone is allergic to cake flour, they may also react to certain substitutes like nut-based alternatives.
- 2.When baking, substitutes can affect rising and texture. Test with a small batch first if making for an important occasion.
- 3.Check expiration dates on substitutes - using fresh ingredients ensures the best flavor and food safety.
Related for Cake Flour
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best substitute for cake flour?
The best substitute for cake flour is All-purpose flour + cornstarch. For 1 cup: use 1 cup AP flour minus 2 tbsp, then add 2 tbsp cornstarch. Sift 5 times. This works well in most recipes that call for cake flour.
Can I use all-purpose instead of cake flour?
Yes, all-purpose flour + cornstarch is an excellent substitute for cake flour. For 1 cup: use 1 cup AP flour minus 2 tbsp, then add 2 tbsp cornstarch. Sift 5 times.
What can I use instead of cake flour in baking?
For baking, the best cake flour substitutes are: All-purpose flour + cornstarch, All-purpose flour (alone), Pastry flour. These options will give you similar results in cakes, cookies, and other baked goods.
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