King Arthur's Dedicated Gluten-Free Products
While King Arthur offers a wide range of flours, not all are gluten-free. The company provides a specific line of products dedicated to gluten-free baking, and it's essential to check the label for certification. The two primary offerings for general baking purposes are the Measure for Measure Flour and the Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour, each formulated for different uses.
King Arthur Gluten-Free Measure for Measure Flour
This blend is designed to be a direct, 1:1 substitute for traditional all-purpose wheat flour in most non-yeasted recipes. It is a convenient option for bakers who want to convert a traditional recipe without overhauling the ingredient list. The formula is crafted to mimic the structure and texture of conventional flour, making it ideal for the following baked goods:
- Cookies
- Cakes
- Muffins
- Brownies
- Pancakes
Unlike the All-Purpose version, this blend contains xanthan gum, which acts as a binder to replace the elasticity and structure that gluten provides. This means you typically do not need to add any additional binders when using this flour.
King Arthur Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour
This blend is intended for bakers using recipes that specifically call for a 'gluten-free flour blend'. It is formulated without xanthan gum, which allows for greater control over the final texture, especially in yeast-based recipes where an elastic structure is desired. The blend consists of:
- White rice flour
- Whole grain brown rice flour
- Tapioca starch
- Potato starch
Since it does not contain xanthan gum, you will need to add a binding agent, such as xanthan gum or psyllium husk, to your recipes when using this blend. This gives experienced gluten-free bakers more flexibility to tailor their bakes.
Other Specialized King Arthur Gluten-Free Products
Beyond the primary blends, King Arthur also offers specialized mixes and flours for specific gluten-free recipes, including:
- Gluten-Free Bread Flour: Specifically formulated for yeasted breads, with added sorghum flour and xanthan gum.
- Gluten-Free Pancake Mix: A ready-to-use mix for quick and easy gluten-free pancakes.
- Gluten-Free Brownie Mix: A popular and easy-to-use mix for fudgy brownies.
Gluten-Free Flours Compared: Measure for Measure vs. All-Purpose
To help you choose the right flour for your project, here is a quick comparison:
| Feature | Gluten-Free Measure for Measure | Gluten-Free All-Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Converting traditional, non-yeasted recipes | Scratch recipes calling for a GF flour blend |
| Substitution Ratio | 1:1 swap for wheat flour | Use as specified in a GF recipe |
| Contains Xanthan Gum? | Yes | No |
| User Level | Great for beginners | Better for experienced GF bakers |
| Typical Results | Excellent for cakes, cookies, and quick breads | More control for yeasted breads and varied textures |
Pro Tips for Baking with King Arthur Gluten-Free Flours
Achieving perfect results with gluten-free flour can sometimes require minor adjustments. Follow these tips for a better baking experience:
- Rest the Dough: For cookies, consider refrigerating the dough overnight. This allows the flours to fully hydrate, reducing grittiness.
- Adjust Liquid: For yeast recipes using the Gluten-Free Bread Flour, you may need to add a couple more tablespoons of liquid per cup of flour, as the blend is more absorbent than wheat flour.
- Expect Different Textures: Understand that gluten-free bakes will have a different texture than their conventional counterparts. Often, they can feel a little wetter when they come out of the oven but will firm up as they cool.
- Check for Doneness Differently: The 'toothpick test' might not be reliable. Instead, rely on a deep golden-brown color for visual cues of doneness.
- Don't Over-Knead: Gluten-free doughs do not need to be kneaded with the same intensity as wheat-based doughs. Gentle handling is key to prevent a gummy texture.
Conclusion: Which King Arthur Flour Is Gluten-Free and Right for You?
The King Arthur flour that is gluten-free will depend on your specific recipe and baking style. For simple, no-fuss conversions of your favorite non-yeasted recipes, opt for the Measure for Measure Flour with its built-in binder. For experienced bakers who enjoy creating custom recipes or tackling yeasted bread from scratch, the Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour offers the necessary flexibility. Regardless of your choice, be sure to always check for the certified gluten-free label to ensure a safe and delicious baking experience.
For more detailed information and recipes, you can visit the King Arthur Baking website's dedicated gluten-free section: https://www.kingarthurbaking.com/recipes/collections/gluten-free-recipes.