Whether you have celiac disease, gluten intolerance, or just want a healthy alternative to gluten, these 5 tips will help you get a great start when it comes to gluten-free baking!
1. Keep it fresh
It is important to remember that gluten-free grains and gluten substitutes have a shorter shelf-life. The next time that you’re at the store, be sure to only buy what you’re going to use within the next couple of months. Or save money and time by grinding your own ingredients with a grain mill. Once you’ve baked your goodies, be sure to transfer them to a wire rack to prevent them from becoming soggy.
2. Compliment the flavors
For those who are new to gluten-free baking you’ll quickly realize that each grain has a unique taste. Try adding extra or additional flavoring to your recipes to help compliment these unfamiliar tastes. A little extra vanilla or more chocolate chips will go a long way while your taste buds adjust to these new and exciting flavors.
3. Remember the differences in composition
Gluten is often the “glue” of the recipe and it can be difficult to replace. Using more dairy products like cottage cheese or dry milk can help recreate the composition of gluten. Sufficient moisture prevents your baked goods from becoming dry and crumbly, so be sure that your recipe has enough ingredients to add moisture.
4. Keep your eye on the prize
Baking times vary drastically with gluten-free recipes, so it is vital that you check your baked goods throughout the baking process. You may have to adjust your oven rack and preheating settings with each new recipe you try, doing so will ensure your creations are cooked to perfection.
5. Don’t reinvent the wheel, or the recipe
New and improved gluten-free recipes are created each day which makes gluten-free baking easier than ever! You may be tempted to completely stray from the recipe and add your own twist but that might come at a cost. Even just a few changes in ingredients can affect your final results. Try your best to stick with the recipes in the beginning, but feel free to branch out as you become more comfortable.
After all that is said and done, remember that your gluten-free baking skills will only improve with time. And don’t forget that baking is supposed to be fun!
