cake flour

Cake Flour

Cake flour is a finely milled, low-protein flour specifically designed for baking delicate cakes and pastries. Its soft texture and lower gluten content contribute to a tender crumb and light, airy texture in baked goods. Cake flour is typically bleached to further weaken the gluten and brighten its color, resulting in a whiter, more visually appealing final product. When you need a light and airy cake that's tender and moist, especially for layer cakes, angel food cakes, or sponge cakes, using cake flour is the best way to achieve that melt-in-your-mouth perfection.

Common Uses

  • Cake flour is essential for baking light and fluffy layer cakes. Its low protein content minimizes gluten development, resulting in a tender crumb that is perfect for delicate layers and prevents a tough or chewy texture.
  • For an incredibly light and airy angel food cake, cake flour is crucial. Its fine texture and reduced gluten formation allow the egg whites to fully expand, creating the signature cloud-like texture of angel food cake.
  • Cake flour creates a tender and delicate crumb in cupcakes, making them incredibly moist and preventing them from becoming dry or dense. It ensures the cupcakes remain soft and enjoyable, even after a day or two.
  • When baking cookies that should be soft and chewy, like shortbread, cake flour is sometimes added in small amounts to help achieve a more delicate texture that is not overly crisp.
  • To achieve the perfect light and airy sponge cake, it's best to use cake flour, it provides its signature soft, tender, and spongy texture.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

387.0kcal (19.35%)

Protein

10.3g (20.58%)

Carbs

81.9g (29.8%)

Sugars

0.4g (0.72%)

Healthy Fat

0.5g

Unhealthy Fat

0.3g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Health Benefits

  • Provides a lighter texture in baked goods compared to all-purpose flour, potentially leading to smaller portion sizes and reduced calorie intake.
  • Lower in protein than all-purpose flour, which can be beneficial for individuals with certain dietary restrictions.
  • Often enriched with vitamins and minerals like iron and folic acid, contributing to daily nutrient intake.
  • Easily digestible due to its fine milling, which may be gentler on the digestive system for some individuals.
  • Can be used in gluten-free baking with the addition of appropriate binders and gluten-free flours for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Offers a blank canvas for flavor additions, allowing for the incorporation of healthy ingredients like fruits, vegetables, and nuts.

Substitutes

Storage Tips

Cake flour should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry, and dark place, like a pantry or cupboard, to maintain its freshness and prevent it from absorbing odors. Properly stored, cake flour can last for 6-12 months. Avoid storing it near strong-smelling foods or in areas with high humidity or temperatures, as this can lead to spoilage or infestation. For extended storage, cake flour can be placed in an airtight container in the freezer for up to a year. Ensure the flour is brought to room temperature before using it in your recipes to ensure proper leavening.

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