A Simple Guide for Perfect Bakes
Have you ever found yourself halfway through a cake recipe only to realize it calls for cake flour, but you only have all-purpose flour in your pantry? Don’t worry! You don’t have to run to the store or abandon your baking plans. Today, we’re going to show you how to make a quick and easy cake flour substitute right at home.
What is Cake Flour?
Cake flour is a finely milled, low-protein flour used primarily in delicate baked goods like cakes and cupcakes. Its lower protein content (about 7-9%) makes for softer, lighter bakes because it produces less gluten, which is ideal for cakes. If you’ve ever noticed that your cakes turn out dense or chewy, it might be because you’re using all-purpose flour instead of cake flour.
Why You Might Need a Substitute
Cake flour isn’t always a staple in everyone’s pantry, and many home bakers may not even be familiar with it. Plus, it’s not as readily available as all-purpose flour. That’s where a quick DIY cake flour substitute comes to the rescue!
How to Make Cake Flour Substitute
Here’s a simple formula for substituting cake flour with ingredients you likely already have on hand:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
Instructions:
- Measure out 1 cup of all-purpose flour but remove 2 tablespoons from it.
- Add 2 tablespoons of cornstarch to the remaining flour.
- Sift the mixture several times to ensure it’s well combined and to aerate the flour.
And there you have it—your homemade cake flour! Cornstarch works by lowering the protein content of the flour, mimicking the effects of cake flour for a more tender, fluffy result.
When to Use This Substitute
You can use this substitute in any recipe that calls for cake flour, like layer cakes, cupcakes, and even some cookie recipes. Keep in mind that it may not be a perfect one-to-one swap for every recipe, but it works beautifully for most cakes and delicate desserts.
Conclusion
Next time you’re in the middle of a baking project and need cake flour, don’t panic! This easy substitution will give you similar results and save you a trip to the store. Plus, knowing how to make your own cake flour is a handy skill to have in the kitchen. Happy baking!