What Are the Functions of Flour in Baking?

Flour can be made from any type of milled grain, although baking flour is usually made from wheat. Baking flour serves a variety of purposes for making goodies such cakes, pastries and bread.

Body

Baking flour primarily provides structure and texture for baked goods. Higher protein content increases the strength and elasticity of the flour, so breads will require a flour with more protein content than a cake would.

Binding

Baking flour helps bind the ingredients in a batter. It also serves as a thickener in sauces, creams and fillings.

Dusting

Baking flour may also be used to lightly coat a pan before filling it with batter to prevent sticking. A counter surface may also be dusted before using it to knead dough.

Coating

Fruits and nuts can be coated with flour before they are added to a batter. This will allow them to float in the batter, instead of sinking to the bottom of the pan.

Self-Rising Flour

Flour that has baking powder and salt already added to it is known as self-rising flour, and is commonly used in baked goods. It typically contains 1 teaspoon of baking powder and 1 teaspoon of salt per cup of flour.

References

• JoyofBaking.com