Best Cornstarch Substitutes

🍳 SubSwap guide 4 substitutes 🌿 vegan options 🌾 gluten-free options

What Can I Use Instead of Cornstarch for Baking?

⭐ Top Pick
Arrowroot powder
veganvegetariandairy-freegluten-freeketopaleonut-free

Use the same amount as the original. 1:1 swap. Identical thickening power, works in acidic and frozen recipes where cornstarch fails. Tasteless and clear.

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

Need to replace Cornstarch in a recipe? These 4 alternatives have you covered. From pantry staples to specialty swaps, this guide walks through every practical Cornstarch replacement you can use in baking — with the ratios you need to get it right. Ideal if you need to save money at the store or keep things plant-based. The top pick is Arrowroot powder — it's the closest match for most recipes. 1:1 swap. Identical thickening power, works in acidic and frozen recipes where cornstarch fails. Tasteless and clear.

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

Get ratios for Cornstarch →

All Cornstarch Substitutes (4 options)

Arrowroot powder Same amount
bestveganvegetariandairy-freegluten-freeketopaleonut-free

1:1 swap. Identical thickening power, works in acidic and frozen recipes where cornstarch fails. Tasteless and clear.

All-purpose flour Use 200%
commonbudgetveganvegetariandairy-freenut-free

Use 2 tbsp flour per 1 tbsp cornstarch. Creates a more opaque, starchy sauce. Best in gravies and stews — not for fruit fillings.

Potato starch Same amount
veganvegetariandairy-freegluten-freenut-free

1:1 swap. Neutral flavor and high thickening power. Good for soups and sauces but breaks down at high heat.

Tapioca starch Use 200%
veganvegetariandairy-freegluten-freeketopaleonut-free

Use 2 tbsp per 1 tbsp cornstarch. Creates a glossy, slightly chewy texture. Great for pie fillings and sauces.

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Tips for Substituting Cornstarch

For most recipes, Arrowroot powder is the best starting point. 1:1 swap. Identical thickening power, works in acidic and frozen recipes where cornstarch fails. Tasteless and clear. When substituting Cornstarch in baking, pay close attention to the role it plays — it may affect structure, moisture, flavor, and leavening all at once. Start with a small test batch if the recipe matters. Going plant-based? Arrowroot powder, Tapioca starch are both vegan-friendly options that work well in most recipes. Watching your grocery budget? All-purpose flour is the most wallet-friendly swap and does a solid job in most uses.


Common Questions About Cornstarch Substitutes

What is the best substitute for Cornstarch?

The best substitute for Cornstarch is Arrowroot powder. Use the same amount. 1:1 swap. Identical thickening power, works in acidic and frozen recipes where cornstarch fails. Tasteless and clear.

What's a good cornstarch alternative?

Arrowroot powder is the closest substitute for Cornstarch — use it at a 1:1 ratio for most baking and cooking applications. Identical thickening power, works in acidic and frozen recipes where cornstarch fails. Tasteless and clear.

What's a good cornstarch replacement?

Arrowroot powder is the closest substitute for Cornstarch — use it at a 1:1 ratio for most baking and cooking applications. Identical thickening power, works in acidic and frozen recipes where cornstarch fails. Tasteless and clear.

What is a cornstarch gravy thickener?

Arrowroot powder is the closest substitute for Cornstarch — use it at a 1:1 ratio for most baking and cooking applications. Identical thickening power, works in acidic and frozen recipes where cornstarch fails. Tasteless and clear.

Can I use a substitute instead of Cornstarch?

Arrowroot powder is the closest substitute for Cornstarch — use it at a 1:1 ratio for most baking and cooking applications. Identical thickening power, works in acidic and frozen recipes where cornstarch fails. Tasteless and clear.

Can I use Arrowroot powder instead of Cornstarch in baking?

In most baking recipes, yes. Arrowroot powder is the top-rated Cornstarch substitute for baking. Check the ratio above and note any texture or flavor differences for your specific recipe.

How many substitutes are there for Cornstarch?

This guide lists 4 Cornstarch alternatives. The best one depends on your recipe, dietary needs, and what you have on hand — check the substitution cards above for details on each.

What is a vegan substitute for Cornstarch?

Arrowroot powder is a great plant-based alternative to Cornstarch. 1:1 swap. Identical thickening power, works in acidic and frozen recipes where cornstarch fails. Tasteless and clear.

Also commonly substituted

Besan (Chickpea Flour) Cassava Flour Cornflour Gelatin Kanten (Agar Agar) Kuzu Starch Psyllium Husk Rice Flour Tapioca (Cassava) Tapioca Starch Taro Starch Water Chestnut Flour

Related ingredients

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