Grocery
All-Purpose Flour
What it is
This is a finely milled wheat flour. It is made from a blend of hard and soft wheat. It is a versatile ingredient used in a wide range of baking and cooking applications. The fine texture allows it to incorporate smoothly into batters and doughs. It is a staple in most kitchens for everyday cooking needs.
How people cook with it
People use this flour for both leavened and unleavened baked goods. It is also a common thickener for sauces and gravies.
- Baking cakes and cookies
- Making bread and rolls
- Thickening gravies
- Coating fried foods
When baking, it is typically measured by volume or weight. For most recipes, it is best to lightly spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it off. Over-measuring can lead to dense baked goods. It can be sifted for lighter textures in cakes or muffins. For thickening, it is often whisked with a liquid to form a slurry before adding to hot mixtures. This helps prevent lumps from forming.
How it differs from similar foods
This makes it ideal for tender baked goods. It is also less absorbent than whole wheat flour, which contains the bran and germ.
Who it is for
Home cooks and professional bakers rely on this flour for consistent results in many recipes.
How to keep the rest
To keep the rest of this flour fresh, store it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. This prevents moisture absorption and keeps out pantry pests. Properly stored, it can maintain its quality for several months.