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.