What is Self-Raising Flour?

Self-raising flour is a type of flour that contains a leavening agent and sometimes salt, making it a convenient choice for baking cakes, muffins, and other baked goods that require a light and airy texture.

What Does Self-Raising Flour Contain?

Typically, self-raising flour contains:

1. Plain Flour (All-Purpose Flour) – Usually soft wheat flour with a lower protein content (around 8-10%) to provide a tender crumb.

2. Baking Powder – The main leavening agent that releases carbon dioxide when mixed with moisture and heat, helping the baked goods rise.

3. Salt (Optional) – Some brands include a small amount of salt for flavor enhancement.

Best Raising Agents to Add to Plain Flour

If you want to make self-raising flour at home, you can combine:

• Plain Flour: 1 cup (120g)

• Baking Powder: 2 teaspoons

• Salt: ¼ teaspoon (optional)

You can adjust the quantity of baking powder depending on the desired rise or specific recipes. Alternatives to baking powder include:

• Baking Soda (Bicarbonate of Soda) + Acidic Ingredients (e.g., buttermilk, yogurt, lemon juice) to create a chemical reaction for leavening.

• Cream of Tartar can be combined with baking soda for a homemade raising agent.

Commercially Available Self-Raising Flours

Many well-known brands offer self-raising flour, often with slight variations in composition. Some examples include:

1. Gold Medal Self-Rising Flour (USA)

   • Contains enriched wheat flour, baking powder, and salt.

2. King Arthur Baking Company Self-Rising Flour (USA)

   • Made from unbleached wheat flour, baking powder, and salt.

3. McDougalls Self Raising Flour (UK)

   • A blend of soft wheat flour, calcium carbonate, iron, niacin, thiamin, and raising agents (baking powder).

4. White Lily Self-Rising Flour (USA)

   • Contains soft winter wheat flour, baking powder, and salt, often preferred for biscuits and pastries.

Other Types

These flours are formulated to ensure consistent rising results without needing additional leavening agents.