Baking Ingredient | Vegetarian Pescatarian

Cake Flour

Triticum aestivum Allergens: Wheat
cake flour

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Poaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Western
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Wheat

The Forktionary Angle

"The Secret to a Tender Crumb"

Definition

A finely milled, low-protein wheat flour, bleached to weaken gluten and create tender, delicate baked goods like cakes and pastries.

Sensory Profile

TasteNeutral, Mildly Sweet
TextureFine, Powdery, Soft
AromaMild, Starchy
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Science Fact

Its low protein content (6-8%) results in less gluten formation, producing a finer, softer texture.

Storage Tip

Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight for up to 1 year.

Usage Tip

Specifically designed for light, airy cakes, cupcakes, and tender biscuits.

Nutrition Facts

Per 1/4 cup
Calories364 kcal
Total Fat1.2 g
Saturated Fat0.2 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein7.6 g
Total Carbohydrate78.5 g
Dietary Fiber2.3 g
Total Sugars0.3 g
Calcium15 mg
Iron0.9 mg
Potassium100 mg

Chef’s Secret

To achieve the ultimate tender crumb, always sift cake flour thoroughly before measuring and mixing to ensure proper aeration and prevent lumps.

Substitutions

Best Match

All-Purpose Flour + Cornstarch

1 cup APF - 2 tbsp APF + 2 tbsp Cornstarch

Mimics lower protein and tenderness, ideal for most recipes.

Pastry Flour

1:1

Similar low protein, but typically unbleached, may affect color slightly.

Self-Rising Flour (adjust leavening)

1:1

Contains leavening and salt, requires recipe adjustment for those.

Spelt Flour (for gluten sensitivity)

1:1 (adjust liquid)

Lower gluten alternative, yields slightly denser crumb.

Flavor Pairings

Recipes Using Cake Flour

Inexpensive Beginner Cook Equipment Preparation

Flaky Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

These irresistible Flaky Oatmeal Raisin Cookies, submitted by Joy Lavin-Jones for the Cal Fish and Game's "Wild and Wonderful Recipes II," offer a delightful twist on a classic. The secret? A crispy crunch from added corn flakes! Enjoy the perfect blend of chewy oatmeal, sweet raisins, and a satisfyingly flaky texture. Perfect for holiday baking or any time you crave a comforting treat.

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Equipment Time To Make Course Beginner Cook

5 Minute Mug Chocolate Cake

Indulge in this decadent 5-Minute Microwave Mug Chocolate Cake! Made in a mug and ready in a flash, this recipe is perfect for a quick chocolate craving. This surprisingly delicious treat, originally from a neighbor's internet find, might be slightly dry, so we recommend topping it with a swirl of chocolate syrup for extra richness and moisture. Get ready for a chocolatey explosion in under 5 minutes!

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Preparation 4 Hours Or Less Desserts Occasion

7 Up Pound Cake

This incredibly moist and fluffy 7 Up Pound Cake is a classic for a reason! The secret ingredient, 7 Up, adds a delightful tang and keeps the cake incredibly tender. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, this recipe will become a family favorite. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Fruit Healthy Course Fruit

A Winning Banana Nut Bread

This incredibly easy banana nut bread recipe, perfected over years by Mrs. H. van der Berg of Brits and featured in the beloved South African magazine Huisgenoot's "Best of Winning Recipes," is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! So simple, even your kids can bake it, this recipe consistently delivers moist, delicious banana bread. Get ready to experience the taste of South African baking tradition!

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Time To Make 60 Minutes Or Less Taste Mood To Go

Almond Butter Cake

Get ready to be amazed! This small but mighty Almond Butter Cake delivers an irresistible toasted almond flavor that's truly out of this world. Using a unique mixing method, this recipe guarantees a perfectly moist and delicious cake every time. Easily customize the almond intensity by substituting almond extract for ¾ of the vanilla extract for an even stronger almond punch! Perfect for a special occasion or a simple weeknight treat.

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Low In Something Low Sodium Preparation Dietary

Almond Lemon Tea Cake

Recreate the magic of Tartine Bakery's San Francisco with this irresistible Almond Lemon Tea Cake recipe. This delightful cake boasts a delicate almond flavor, bright citrus notes, and a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Perfect for afternoon tea, special occasions, or simply a sweet treat.

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Number Of Servings Occasion Cakes Preparation

Almost Cake Mix Vanilla Cupcakes

Transform your favorite cake mix into unbelievably fluffy and delicious vanilla cupcakes! This recipe uses a simple trick to achieve perfectly pastel-colored treats. Customize your cupcakes with a few drops of your favorite food coloring. We recommend pairing these with our creamy buttercream frosting (recipe #80118) – a delightful match made in baking heaven! For an extra touch, we've swapped out the usual sugar processing for a simple mix of 2 cups powdered sugar and ½ cup granulated sugar. Get ready for the ultimate easy-bake cupcake experience!

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Gifts Novelty Occasion 4 Hours Or Less

Almost Tortuga Rum Cake

Craving a taste of the Caribbean? This Almost Tortuga Rum Cake recipe is the next best thing to the real deal! Inspired by an unforgettable rum cake from Tortuga, this recipe recreates that incredible island flavor using readily available ingredients. Imagine a moist, decadent cake bursting with rich rum flavor, studded with walnuts, and generously drizzled with a luscious rum glaze. Perfect for special occasions or a simply delightful treat, this copycat recipe is sure to become a new favorite. Get ready to transport your taste buds to paradise!

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Time To Make Preparation For Large Groups Time To Make

Alton Brown's Coconut Cake With 7 Minute Frosting

Indulge in this decadent Alton Brown-inspired coconut cake! This recipe recreates the magic of his show, featuring a moist and flavorful coconut cake layered with a luscious 7-minute frosting. While Alton Brown famously makes everything from scratch, this adapted version offers flexibility for busy bakers. Discover how to achieve a less-fat version of this birthday cake masterpiece, perfect for a special celebration. Get ready to impress with this show-stopping dessert!

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Course African Pies And Tarts Fruit

Apple Pies Made In A Muffin Pan

Indulge in the charm of these perfectly portioned mini apple pies, baked in a muffin tin! These elegant little tarts are ideal for a ladies' tea party or any special occasion. Flaky, buttery crust cradles a sweet and tangy apple filling – a delightful bite-sized dessert that's surprisingly easy to make. Get the recipe now!

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Time To Make Cakes Preparation Time To Make

Applesauce Streusel Cake

Indulge in the irresistible aroma of warm spices and apples as this easy Applesauce Streusel Cake bakes! This comforting dessert is surprisingly simple to make, despite the ingredient list. The moist cake, topped with a crunchy streusel and your favorite nuts, is perfect for any occasion. Get ready to be amazed by the incredible flavor and texture – a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

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Meat Main Ingredient Main Dish Dietary

Bacon Wrapped Sausage Casserole With Apple Tomato Sauce

Indulge in this hearty and flavorful Bacon-Wrapped Sausage Casserole, inspired by a classic Huisgenoot recipe! Juicy pork sausages, wrapped in crispy bacon, are nestled in a tangy apple-tomato sauce and baked to perfection. This comforting casserole, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, is served alongside creamy dauphinoise potatoes (recipe not included). Get ready for a taste of South African comfort food with a delicious twist!

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Course 4 Hours Or Less Tropical Fruit Papaya

Bahamian Papaya Rum Cake

Escape to the tropical paradise of the Bahamas with every bite of this decadent papaya rum cake! Infused with the rich flavors of Caribbean rum and sweet papaya, this moist and tender cake is the perfect ending to any meal. Our recipe captures the essence of island life, bringing the taste of a Bahamian vacation straight to your kitchen. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Cakes Desserts 60 Minutes Or Less Time To Make

Banana Chocolate Chip Cake

This decadent Banana Chocolate Chip Cake is a family favorite, perfected over generations! Inspired by a cherished college care package, this recipe is guaranteed to disappear in minutes. Made with full-fat sour cream for ultimate richness and moistness (trust us!), it's the perfect blend of sweet banana and melty chocolate chips. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Fruit Equipment Dietary Fruit

Banana Chocolate Loaf

This decadent Banana Chocolate Loaf is a family favorite, disappearing faster than you can say 'banana'! Moist, chocolatey, and bursting with banana flavor, this recipe is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful afternoon treat. Double the recipe (as I always do!) to ensure there's enough for everyone.

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Southern United States Eggs Main Ingredient Grains

Banana Cream Cheese Pound Cake

Indulge in the ultimate comfort dessert: a moist and decadent Banana Cream Cheese Pound Cake! This irresistible recipe blends the best of banana bread and rich pound cake, creating a flavor explosion in every bite. Imagine the creamy sweetness of cream cheese perfectly balanced with the ripe banana's natural sweetness, all baked to golden perfection. This recipe is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an unforgettable afternoon treat. Prepare to be amazed!

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Picnic Time To Make Eggs Dairy Main Ingredient

Basic White Cake

This foolproof basic white cake recipe delivers a flawlessly moist and tender crumb every time! A slightly different mixing method ensures success, resulting in a subtly off-white hue from the butter and vanilla. This classic wedding cake recipe is incredibly versatile – frost it with your favorite buttercream for a truly unforgettable dessert. Prepare to impress!

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Eggs Dairy Cakes Pasta Rice And Grains North American

Best Yellow Cake Ever

Get ready to bake the most amazing yellow cake you've ever tasted! This recipe uses a unique mixing technique that guarantees a perfectly moist and tender crumb every single time. The secret? A special step-by-step process that builds incredible cake structure. Top it off with 1 1/2 batches of our luscious semi-classic buttercream frosting (milk chocolate is our favorite, but get creative!). Prepare for rave reviews!

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