Thursday, May 12, 2011

Xanthan Gum

I have several recipes that call for gluten-free flour, but don't ask for xanthan gum. Probably they assume it is already in my gluten-free flour mix, but I have mixed my own flour and need to know how much xanthan gum to add to my recipe. I found this handy dandy little bit of information which I hope will solve my baking dilemma.

General Tips for Using Xanthan Gum and Guar Gum in Gluten-Free Cooking

  • Bread and pizza dough recipes: Add 1 teaspoon xanthan gum or guar gum per cup of gluten-free flour used in bread and pizza dough recipes
  • Cake, muffin and quick bread recipes: Add 1/2 teaspoon xanthan gum or guar gum per one cup of gluten-free flour used
  • Cookie and bar recipes: Add 1/2 teaspoon (or less) xanthan gum or guar gum per one cup gluten-free flour used

Note- For best results follow recipe recommendations when using xanthan gum or guar gum.


I'm planning to try that banana bread recipe Ann posted. I'll let you know how it turns out and if the spoon is lickable.

4 comments:

  1. Might I suggest making half the recipe with and half without to see if you notice a difference, knowing the very little I know about xanthan gum, you may not notice that much difference in the banana bread, but would notice a huge difference in an actual bread recipe.
    It's also important to note for all those out there. Make sure you know where your xanthan gum came from because xanthan gum may be derived from a variety of source products such as corn, WHEAT, dairy, or soy. It's also should be noted that xantham gum is a "highly efficient laxative". Like anything in life, it's best to consume in moderation.

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  2. Bob's Gluten-Free All Purpose Baking Flour contains no xanthan gum. It is not listed on the ingredients, therefore I will proceed with the banana bread recipe as directed and use no xanthan gum.

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  3. Still...Don't lick the spoon...and if you do...take a picture of your face when you do it for me ;-)

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  4. So all our comments appear to have disappeared with the blogger glitch. Yes, Ann, I will be careful with the xanthan gum and purpose to add it to recipes only when needed. :)

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