Best Arrowroot Substitutes

🍳 SubSwap guide 4 substitutes

What Can I Use Instead of Arrowroot for Sauces,?

⭐ Top Pick
Cornstarch
commonbudgetveganvegetariandairy-freegluten-freenut-free

Use 50%. Use half the amount of cornstarch — it's roughly 2x as thickening as arrowroot. Works in sauces, gravies, and pie fillings.

Not this one? Try: Tapioca starch Potato starch All-purpose flour See all 4 →

Out of arrowroot? Don't panic — there are 4 reliable substitutes that work in sauces, gravies, and gluten-free baking. The top pick is Cornstarch — use 50%. Use half the amount of cornstarch — it's roughly 2x as thickening as arrowroot. Works in sauces, gravies, and pie fillings.

Want exact ratios calculated for your specific recipe? Use the free SubSwap calculator.

Get ratios for Arrowroot →

All Arrowroot Substitutes (4 options)

Cornstarch Use 50%
bestcommonbudgetveganvegetariandairy-freegluten-freenut-free

Use half the amount of cornstarch — it's roughly 2x as thickening as arrowroot. Works in sauces, gravies, and pie fillings.

Tapioca starch Same amount
commonveganvegetariandairy-freegluten-freepaleonut-free

1:1 swap. Most similar texture and clarity to arrowroot. Best for clear sauces and fruit pies.

Potato starch Same amount
commonveganvegetariandairy-freegluten-freepaleonut-free

1:1 swap. Slightly cloudier than arrowroot but very effective. Don't boil — add at the end of cooking.

All-purpose flour Use 2× the amount
commonbudgetveganvegetariandairy-freenut-free

Use 2 tbsp flour per 1 tbsp arrowroot. Cook the flour first (roux) to avoid lumps. Not gluten-free or paleo.

Common Questions About Arrowroot Substitutes

What's the best substitute for arrowroot?

The best substitute for arrowroot is Cornstarch. Use 50%. Use half the amount of cornstarch — it's roughly 2x as thickening as arrowroot. Works in sauces, gravies, and pie fillings.

Can I use Tapioca starch instead of arrowroot?

Yes. Same amount. 1:1 swap. Most similar texture and clarity to arrowroot. Best for clear sauces and fruit pies.

How many substitutes are there for arrowroot?

This guide lists 4 arrowroot alternatives. The best one depends on your recipe, dietary needs, and what you have on hand.

What is a vegan substitute for arrowroot?

Cornstarch is a great plant-based alternative to arrowroot. Use 50%. Use half the amount of cornstarch — it's roughly 2x as thickening as arrowroot. Works in sauces, gravies, and pie fillings.