Different Types of Flour

When it comes to baking, one of the main ingredients if not the most important ingredient, is flour. Depending on which baked good you want to make, using a different type of flour can allow you to achieve a better result. Learn about 6 different types of flour by reading this article that Great Harvest Bread Co. has for you today.

Flour is one of the most common baking ingredients. If you enjoy baking, chances are you have already realized there are many different types of flour. Nonetheless, it can be confusing at times to know which flour you need to use when wanting to make a specific dessert. So, if you want to learn about different varieties of flour and how you can have some fun baking with them, this article by Great Harvest Bread Co. is just what you are looking for.

All-Purpose Flour

All-purpose flour is the most commonly used flour out there. This is the most versatile flour. Due to its moderate protein content of about 10 to 12 percent, all-purpose flour, as its name says, allows you to do all kinds of baked goods. If you ever come across a recipe that asks you to use “flour,” they probably mean all-purpose flour. If you are ever at the supermarket and don’t know which flour to take home, all-purpose flour is probably the best choice.

Bread Flour

One of the main differences between all-purpose flour and bread flour is that bread flour has a higher protein (gluten) content. Bread flour has one of the highest percentages of protein at 12 to 14 perfect. The reason for this is that gluten is the one in charge of ensuring bread rises properly. Without this percentage of protein, bread wouldn’t be able to have its beautiful shape, volume, and taste. Even though bread flour is targeted mainly for commercial bakers, you might have the luck of finding some bread flour at your frequent grocery store.

If you are craving some freshly made bread, go to your Great Harvest Bread Co. Ask about some tips on how to make the best bread by visiting the best bakery in Newtonville, MA, or by calling 617-928-1162 today!

Whole Wheat Flour

As mentioned before, depending on the content of gluten flour has, the way it rises and its consistency is affected. Whole wheat flour has a lower content of gluten, the reason why it is used to make delicious dishes like pizza. This type of flour usually leads to a sticky dough and denser baked goods. Whole wheat flour has a higher content of fiber and minerals which are good for digestion. One aspect you need to keep in mind if you buy whole wheat flour is that it stays fresh for a shorter amount of time than other flours (up to three months).

Pastry Flour

Pastry flour is usually used to make pie crusts, muffins, cookies, and more. Pastry flour is made from soft wheat which allows it to be finer than all-purpose flour. Even though baking pastries at home can be a very common hobby or activity, you will be surprised to know that not all supermarkets sell it. If you have a hard time finding pastry flour at your grocery store, take a look at your nearest baking store. As a last option, you can make your own pastry flour at home by mixing 1 1/3 cups of all-purpose flour with 2/3 cup cake flour.

Learn more about flour and about amazing baked goods by visiting your nearest Great Harvest Bread Co. Ask about their baked goods and about the amazing menu that the best bakery in Newtonville, MA, offers. For more information call 617-928-1162 today!

Gluten-Free Flour

Many people have an allergic reaction to gluten so, over the years, many gluten.free flours have been developed. Gluten-free flour can be made from different ingredient bases such as tapioca, quinoa, potatoes, almonds, and more. Baking with gluten-free flour can be challenging when it comes to wanting to achieve the same consistency and taste. Nonetheless, there are many recipes out there that can allow you to create delicious and beautiful baked goods using gluten-free flour.

Self-Rising Flour

Self-rising flour is very similar to all-purpose flour, but with a twist to help the baking process become easier. Usually, self-rising flour is white flour mixed with salt and baking powder. You can often see this flour listen in the ingredients list of baked goods like cakes, cupcakes, or even pancakes. However, if you don’t have self-rising flour at home, you can make your own! You simply need to mix 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1/4 teaspoon of fine salt and 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder.

Visit your nearest Great Harvest Bread Co. and enjoy the best freshly made bread. Ask about amazing services and about the menu that the best bakery in Newtonville, MA, offers. For more information call 617-928-1162 today!