All-Purpose Flour Substitute for Cornstarch: Exact Ratio
Looking for a cornstarch substitute? All-Purpose Flour works as a direct replacement. Use 2 tbsp flour per 1 tbsp cornstarch in any recipe that calls for cornstarch. This swap works best for gravies, soups, stews.
Best Substitute
All-Purpose Flour
2 tbsp flour per 1 tbsp cornstarch
Use twice as much flour. Must be cooked longer (2-3 minutes) to eliminate the raw flour taste. Creates an opaque, matte finish rather than glossy.
Flavor & Texture Change
Can taste floury if not cooked long enough. Creates a thicker, more opaque sauce. Good for gravy and roux-based sauces where clarity does not matter.
When Not to Use
Use double the amount (2:1 ratio). Must be cooked for at least 2-3 minutes to eliminate raw flour taste. Creates an opaque, matte sauce, not clear and glossy like cornstarch. Not suitable for gluten-free needs.
Tips When Replacing Cornstarch in Recipes
Always mix cornstarch or its substitutes with cold liquid before adding to hot liquids to prevent lumps. This is called a slurry. Most starch thickeners lose their power if overcooked or if the sauce is too acidic. Arrowroot is better for acidic sauces; flour is better for opaque gravies.
What Is Cornstarch and Why Substitute It?
A pure starch extracted from corn kernels, used primarily as a thickener for sauces, gravies, and pie fillings, and as a component in gluten-free baking.
All-Purpose Flour is one of 5 alternatives you can use instead of cornstarch. For a complete list of cornstarch substitutes with ratios and cooking tips, visit the full cornstarch substitute page.
What Else Can I Use Instead of Cornstarch?
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of cornstarch?
Yes, you can use all-purpose flour as a substitute for cornstarch. Use 2 tbsp flour per 1 tbsp cornstarch. Use twice as much flour. Must be cooked longer (2-3 minutes) to eliminate the raw flour taste. Creates an opaque, matte finish rather than glossy.
How much all-purpose flour equals cornstarch?
Use 2 tbsp flour per 1 tbsp cornstarch to replace cornstarch with all-purpose flour. Works best for gravies, soups, stews.
What is the best substitute for cornstarch?
All-Purpose Flour is a popular substitute for cornstarch. Use 2 tbsp flour per 1 tbsp cornstarch for a 1-to-1 replacement. See all 5 alternatives on our cornstarch substitute page.
Does all-purpose flour change the taste when replacing cornstarch?
Use double the amount (2:1 ratio). Must be cooked for at least 2-3 minutes to eliminate raw flour taste. Creates an opaque, matte sauce, not clear and glossy like cornstarch. Not suitable for gluten-free needs.
Is all-purpose flour a vegan substitute for cornstarch?
Yes, all-purpose flour is vegan and works as a plant-based alternative to cornstarch. Use 2 tbsp flour per 1 tbsp cornstarch.