Home / Baking & Leavening / Cornstarch
What can I use instead of cornstarch?
Best substitute for 1 tbsp cornstarch
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
All-purpose flour — Use double; for thickening sauces.
tbsp
Amounts below are for 1 tbsp cornstarch
5 substitutes for cornstarch
| Substitute | Use this much | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 tbsp all-purpose flour | Use double; for thickening sauces. |
| Arrowroot powder | 1 tbsp arrowroot powder | 1:1; clear, glossy finish. |
| Tapioca starch | 2 tbsp tapioca starch | Great for fruit fillings. |
| Potato starch | 1 tbsp potato starch | 1:1; add late in cooking. |
| Rice flour | 1 tbsp rice flour | Neutral; gluten-free. |
Cornstarch thickens sauces, gravies and fillings. Several other starches and flours do the same job - some at 1:1, flour at about double.
Tips
- For thickening, flour needs about double the cornstarch.
- Mix starch with cold liquid first to avoid lumps.
FAQ
- Can I use flour instead of cornstarch?
- Yes - use about 2 tbsp flour per 1 tbsp cornstarch when thickening.
- Best gluten-free cornstarch swap?
- Arrowroot or potato starch both work 1:1 and are gluten-free.