Arrowroot powder is used in all types of recipes and no need to worry if you are all out. There are numerous great substitutes you can use to replace arrowroot powder and you will learn how to use them here.
Whether you are making a tasty dessert a soup or main course, you have plenty of great alternatives you can choose from to finish your recipe.
So what are the best substitutes for arrowroot powder?
The top arrowroot powder substitutes are cornstarch, xanthan gum, all-purpose flour, rice flour, tapioca flour, potato flour, glucomannan powder, and psyllium husk.
If you are unsure how to use an arrowroot flour substitute, don’t worry. You will find out how to use them in your recipe below.
Arrowroot Powder Alternatives
Arrowroot has grown in popularity in recent years and can be found in all types of recipes.
It is prized for being part of a gluten free diet. It is also corn free, dairy free, and soy free.
Because you will be looking for a specific type of arrowroot powder substitute depending on your dietary goals, I have included many types of alternatives. That way you are sure to find one that suits your needs.
Cornstarch
Cornstarch is an excellent all around substitute for arrowroot powder. This popular thickening agent is produced from corn and is already available in most kitchens.
Cornstarch can be used in any recipe that uses arrowroot as a thickening base. Use it in desserts, soups and dinner recipes.
Note: Most cornstarch is gluten free as corn does not contain gluten. Be sure your cornstarch does not contain added gluten if looking for a gluten free arrowroot powder substitute.
Equivalent
1 cup of cornstarch equals 1 cup of arrowroot powder
Related: Cornstarch vs Corn Flour
Xanthan Gum
Xanthan gum is a great substitute for arrowroot if you are looking for a keto friendly option. Xanthan gum is a popular binding agent and it can be used in all types of recipes that call for arrowroot as a base.
Xanthan gum works well in pudding, cake, custard, soups, sauces and more. Keep in mind that xanthan gum should not be used in uncooked recipes.
Equivalent
1 cup of xanthan gum equals 1 cup of arrowroot powder
All-Purpose Flour
This kitchen staple is a great arrowroot starch substitute for those who can use a gluten option. All purpose flour works well in all recipes that call for arrowroot powder so it is an excellent go to option.
Keep in mind that you will need to use more all purpose flour than you would arrowroot, but no other recipe alterations are needed.
Equivalent
2 cups of all purpose flour equals 1 cup arrowroot flour
Rice Flour
Both sweet rice flour and rice flour can be used as a replacement for arrowroot starch. But the one you use depends on what you are making.
Sweet rice flour is best suited as a thickener in frozen desserts while rice flour is better suited in all other types of recipes. Rice flour is particularly great when used in baked recipes.
Rice flour is gluten free.
Equivalent
1 cup of rice flour equals 2 cups of arrowroot powder
Related: Rice Flour Substitutes
Tapioca Flour
Also known as tapioca starch, this naturally gluten free alternative to arrowroot powder works in most types of recipes.
One area tapioca flour is not well suited for are frozen dessert recipes. If making a frozen dessert you will want to use another alternative from this list.
Equivalent
1 cup of tapioca starch equals 1 cup of arrowroot powder
Potato Flour
You will find this great arrowroot flour substitute referred to as either potato flour or potato starch. But no matter the name, it works great in any recipe that calls for arrowroot.
It comes in flake form, so you will want to crush it up before measuring. It is flavorless and really shines in baked goods.
Equivalent
1 cup of potato flour equals 1 cup arrowroot flour
Related: Potato Flour Substitute
Glucomannan Powder
This gluten free option is a great choice for recipes that use arrowroot as a thickening agent. Use it by mixing with a small amount of water to create a slurry before adding it to the rest of your ingredients.
The amount of glucomannan powder used depends on how thick you want your recipe to be. Start with the ratio below and add more powder if a thicker consistency is desired.
Equivalent
1 cup of glucomannan powder equals 2 cups of arrowroot powder
Psyllium Husk
Psyllium husk is a popular keto friendly thickener. It is used in all types of recipes and makes a great replacement for arrowroot powder.
It is dairy free, corn free, and plant based all while not altering the flavor of your final dish.
Equivalent
1 cup of psyllium husk equals 1 cup of arrowroot starch
Arrowroot Starch Replacement FAQ
Can I substitute cornstarch for arrowroot powder?
Yes, cornstarch is an excellent substitute for arrowroot powder. It can be used in all types of recipes that call for arrowroot starch. Use a 1:1 ratio when replacing arrowroot flour with cornstarch.
Can I substitute almond flour for arrowroot powder?
Yes, almond flour can be used instead of arrowroot flour. It can be used in all types of recipes. Use a 1:1 ratio when subbing arrowroot powder with almond flour.
Is arrowroot the same as corn flour?
No. Arrowroot is produced from the arrowroot plant while corn flour is a byproduct of corn. They can often be used in place of each other though.
Can I use coconut flour instead of arrowroot?
Yes, coconut flour can be used in place of arrowroot. Coconut flour can be used as a thickener or in baked dishes.
Can I substitute tapioca flour for arrowroot?
Yes, tapioca flour is an excellent substitute for arrowroot starch. Use a 1:1 ratio when using tapioca flour instead of arrowroot powder.
Can I use baking powder instead of arrowroot powder?
No it is not recommended. Baking powder is a leavening agent while arrowroot is a thickener. They are not suitable substitutes for each other.