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Alternative Flours 101: What They Are and How to Use Them

Looking to mix up your baking routine or explore gluten-free options? Alternative flours offer unique flavors, added nutrition, and versatile uses—perfect for seasoned bakers and curious cooks alike. Whether you’re baking cookies or cooking savory dishes, the Co-op has a variety of flours to fit your needs.

Why Try Alternative Flours?

Alternative flours are:

  • Naturally gluten-free (in most cases)

  • Rich in nutrients like fiber, protein, and healthy fats

  • Flavorful and versatile

  • A way to support dietary needs and discover new recipes

Let’s take a look at some of the most popular and easy-to-use options:


🌰 Almond Flour

A finely ground flour made from blanched almonds. It’s naturally gluten-free and adds a nutty richness to baked goods.

Best for: cookies, muffins, pancakes, crusts


🥥 Coconut Flour

Made from dried coconut meat, it’s high in fiber and absorbs a lot of moisture—great for dense, moist bakes.

Best for: brownies, quick breads, and grain-free desserts (used with other flours)


🌾 Oat Flour

Ground from oats, this flour has a mild, slightly sweet flavor and soft texture. Make your own by blending rolled oats at home!

Best for: pancakes, banana bread, muffins


🌱 Chickpea Flour

Packed with protein and fiber, this flour is used in many global cuisines. It adds a savory, earthy note to dishes.

Best for: fritters, savory crepes, flatbreads (like socca)


🌽 Cornmeal & Masa Harina

Essential in Latin American cuisine, masa harina is used for tortillas, while cornmeal adds texture to bakes.

Best for: tortillas, tamales, cornbread


🍠 Cassava Flour

Made from the whole cassava root, it’s a grain-free, nut-free, and gluten-free flour with great versatility and a mild flavor.

Best for: flatbreads, cookies, and as a thickener


💡 Tips for Using Alternative Flours

  • Start with recipes designed for the flour you’re using—many don’t substitute 1:1 for wheat flour.

  • Combine flours for better structure and texture, especially in gluten-free baking.

  • Store them properly—nut and seed flours are best kept refrigerated or frozen.


Shop Smart, Bake Better

At the Co-op, we stock a wide range of alternative flours. From almond to oat, we’re your go-to for wholesome, allergy-friendly ingredients.

Come explore the baking aisle and ask our team for their favorite flour swaps!