Oat flour is a type of flour made from ground oats. Unlike wheat flour, which is made from wheat kernels, oat flour is made from oats that have been processed into a fine powder. Oat flour is a popular alternative to wheat flour due to its unique texture, flavor, and nutritional benefits.
Health Benefits
One of the main benefits of using oat flour in baking is its high fiber content. Oats are one of the most fiber-rich grains, and when they are processed into flour, the fiber content is preserved.
Fiber is important for maintaining a healthy digestive system and can help lower cholesterol levels, control blood sugar, and promote feelings of fullness.
Another benefit of using oat flour in baking is its flavor. Oat flour has a natural, nutty flavor that adds depth and complexity to baked goods. This nutty flavor is especially desirable in baked goods such as oatmeal cookies, banana bread, and muffins.
Baking Substitution
Oat flour can be substituted for some or all of the white flour in many baked goods recipes. When using oat flour in baking, it is important to keep in mind that it behaves differently than wheat flour.
Oat flour is more absorbent than wheat flour, which means that it can result in a denser baked good. To counteract this effect, some bakers will add a small amount of additional liquid, such as milk or yogurt, to their recipes.
Another thing to keep in mind when using oat flour in baking is that it does not contain gluten, which is a protein found in wheat flour that gives baked goods their structure and elasticity.
For this reason, oat flour is often used in gluten-free baking, but it is important to note that not all oat flour is gluten-free, as some oats are processed in facilities that also process wheat. To ensure that your oat flour is gluten-free, look for products that are labeled “gluten-free.”
Oat flour is a nutritious and delicious alternative to wheat flour for bakers who want to incorporate more whole grains into their diets. With its high fiber content, nutty flavor, and versatility, oat flour is a great option for adding nutrition and flavor to your baked goods.
Whether you are a seasoned baker or just starting out, oat flour is a great option for adding a touch of natural goodness to your baked creations.
How to Find it
Oat flour can be found in most grocery stores and health food stores, and is available in both whole grain and refined forms.
Whole grain oat flour has a coarser texture and nuttier flavor than refined oat flour, and is ideal for baked goods such as banana bread, muffins, and oatmeal cookies. Refined oat flour has a finer texture and is ideal for delicate baked goods, such as cakes and pie crusts.
