Xanthan Gum

N/A (polysaccharide) Food Additive, Thickener

Xanthan Gum Food Additive, Thickener

At a Glance

  • Category Food Additive, Thickener

The Forktionary Angle

"Modern Culinary Emulsifier"

Definition

A common food additive, a polysaccharide, used as a powerful thickener, emulsifier, and stabilizer in foods, especially valuable in gluten-free baking and sauces.

Dry Shelf Life (sealed) 2-5 Years
Typical Concentration (for sauces) 0.1-0.5%
Viscosity at 1% Solution (cP) 1200-1600

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Xanthan Gum are:

Flavorless

Chef’s Secret

To prevent clumping, mix xanthan gum with a small amount of sugar or oil before adding it to liquid ingredients, or sprinkle it very slowly while whisking vigorously.

Best Substitutes

Guar Gum

texture differs
Ratio 1:1

Cornstarch

requires more, to 3:1
Ratio 2:1

Psyllium Husk

for GF baking

Buying Guide

Look for food-grade, fine powder. Ensure it's stored in an airtight container to prevent moisture absorption.

Recipes Using Xanthan Gum

Gluten Free Gluten Free Vegetarian 5 Ingredients Or Less

All Purpose Gluten Free Flour

This versatile gluten-free flour blend is your go-to for ALL your baking needs! Effortlessly create delicious breads, melt-in-your-mouth cookies, and flaky pie crusts – all from one amazing recipe. Say goodbye to gluten-filled limitations and hello to endless baking possibilities!

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Cookies And Brownies 4 Hours Or Less Equipment Mixer

Alton Brown Chewy Gluten Free Chocolate Chip Cookies

These incredible gluten-free chocolate chip cookies are adapted from Alton Brown's "Good Eats" recipe! Perfectly chewy and bursting with chocolate, you won't believe they're made without wheat. A game-changer for gluten-free baking, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers unbelievably delicious results. Say goodbye to dry, crumbly gluten-free cookies forever!

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Cuisine Pasta Rice And Grains Preparation Cuisine

Amazing Gluten Free Buttermilk Donuts Doughnuts

Indulge in the irresistible taste of perfectly fluffy gluten-free buttermilk donuts! This recipe, inspired by gf-utah, uses a simple yet effective rice flour blend to create donuts that look, taste, and feel just like the real deal. Surprisingly easy to make, these delightful treats are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any time a sweet craving hits. Get ready to wow your family and friends with these amazing gluten-free donuts!

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Pasta Rice And Grains Oven Gluten Free Equipment

Angel Food Cake Gluten Free

Indulge in this heavenly gluten-free angel food cake! This recipe delivers a light and airy texture, perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth without compromising on taste. Unlike other gluten-free versions that deflate, this recipe uses a technique to ensure maximum rise and a stunningly beautiful cake. Made with simple ingredients and a foolproof method, this recipe is perfect for both experienced bakers and beginners. Serve it plain, or create a delightful strawberry trifle as described in the recipe. Get ready for a gluten-free dessert experience that will leave you and your guests speechless!

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Time To Make Time To Make Taste Mood Dinner Party

Awesome Gluten Free Apple Pie With Crumble Topping

Craving Grandma's apple pie but need a gluten-free option? This recipe delivers a thick, juicy apple pie with a buttery, crumbly topping and flaky crust. Made with simple ingredients and a foolproof method, it's so delicious, even your gluten-loving family won't believe it's gluten-free! Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for the ultimate comfort food experience. #glutenfree #applepie #crumblytopping #homemade #easyrecipe #dessert #comfortfood

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Gluten Free Gluten Free Time To Make 4 Hours Or Less

Awesome Gluten Free Chocolate Chip Cookies

These soft and chewy gluten-free chocolate chip cookies are a game-changer! Adapted from a beloved recipe in Taste of Home's "Best of Country Cookies," this recipe delivers the ultimate texture without the dryness often found in gluten-free baked goods. Perfect for satisfying your chocolate chip cookie craving, even with dietary restrictions.

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Taste Mood Tropical Fruit Gluten Free Oven

Banana Maple Pecan Bread Muffins Gluten Free

Transform overripe bananas into heavenly gluten-free muffins! This recipe, born from a 20lb Kroger banana haul (yes, really!), delivers unbelievably moist and flavorful muffins. Choose between a classic maple pecan topping or a decadent cream cheese swirl – both are divine! This recipe easily doubles (yielding approximately 39 muffins!), making it perfect for sharing or enjoying throughout the week. Made with Bette Hagman's gluten-free flour blend (2 parts garfava bean flour, 1 part sorghum flour, 3 parts cornstarch, 3 parts tapioca flour), this is your new go-to banana bread recipe – muffin form!

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Time To Make Preparation Number Of Servings Course

Best Banana Bread Gluten Free

This gluten-free banana bread recipe is a game-changer! My first attempt at a gluten-free version of my beloved banana bread recipe resulted in the perfect texture, flavor, and density – you won't believe it's gluten-free! Say goodbye to dry, crumbly gluten-free bread and hello to moist, flavorful perfection. Get ready to enjoy the best banana bread you've ever tasted!

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