BAKING TIPS: What is the difference between cake flour, bread flour, all purpose flour and top flour?

Plain flour may be an all-purpose baking companion, but you'll want to keep some cake flour, bread flour and top flour on hand for certain recipes. Here's what you need to know.

By Mia Chenyze - 15 Apr 2016

What is the difference between cake flour, bread flour, all purpose flour and top flour

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Photo: Aliaksandr Mazurkevich

PLAIN FLOUR

Also known as all-purpose flour. Has an intermediate gluten level which makes it suitable for most baking or cooking needs.

CAKE FLOUR

It has the lowest protein content, and is suitable for sponge cakes and mooncake skins.

TOP FLOUR

Similar to cake flour, it has an extra-fine quality that is ideal for chiffon cakes, crepes and Swiss rolls.

BREAD FLOUR

High in protein and gluten. Besides baking bread, it can be used to make dense fruit cakes.