Grocery
All-Purpose Flour
What it is
All-purpose flour is a common baking ingredient made from finely ground wheat. It is milled to a medium texture, falling between cake flour and bread flour. It is a staple in most kitchens for everyday cooking and baking needs.
How people cook with it
This flour is a fundamental component in many recipes, providing structure and binding to doughs and batters.
- Baking cakes and cookies
- Thickening sauces and gravies
- Coating meats for frying
- Making homemade pasta
When baking, all-purpose flour is typically measured by volume or weight. It is often sifted to aerate and remove any lumps, ensuring a smoother texture in the final product. For thickening, it can be whisked into liquids or combined with fat to create a roux. When frying, it forms a crust that helps keep juices inside the food. Its adaptability makes it suitable for both sweet and savory applications.
How it differs from similar foods
It is also less finely milled than cake flour, offering a middle ground for various baking projects.
Who it is for
Home cooks and bakers rely on all-purpose flour for its consistent performance in a variety of recipes.
How to keep the rest
To maintain freshness, store all-purpose flour in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. This prevents moisture absorption and keeps out pests. Properly stored, it can last for several months.