Bread flour

Bread flour is a type of flour specifically formulated for baking bread. It is distinguished from other types of flour by its higher protein content, which ranges between 12% and 14%. This higher protein content is crucial as it gives the flour more gluten-forming potential, resulting in breads that have a stronger and more elastic dough, and which rise higher and have a more chewy texture.

Composition and Types

Bread flour is made primarily from hard wheat, either hard red spring, hard red winter, or hard white wheat. These varieties of wheat have a higher protein content than soft wheats, making them ideal for bread making. The flour may be bleached or unbleached, which affects the color of the flour and, to some extent, its absorption properties. Unbleached flour is preferred for some recipes for its slightly denser texture and more complex flavor.

Usage

Bread flour is most commonly used in yeast breads, where the gluten's elasticity is essential for the dough to rise properly. It can also be used in combination with other flours, such as rye flour or whole wheat flour, to produce bread with varied textures and flavors. While it is possible to use bread flour for other types of baking, such as cakes or pastries, the high gluten content can make the final product too tough or chewy for these applications.

Comparison with Other Flours

The main difference between bread flour and other types of flour, like all-purpose flour or cake flour, lies in the protein content. All-purpose flour has a protein content that falls between that of bread flour and cake flour, making it a more versatile option for a variety of baking needs. Cake flour has the lowest protein content, which results in a finer, lighter texture that is ideal for cakes and delicate pastries.

Health Considerations

Bread flour is similar to other wheat flours in terms of nutrition, providing a good source of carbohydrates, protein, and various vitamins and minerals, including iron and B vitamins. However, because it is made from wheat, it contains gluten, which can cause health problems for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

See Also

• Wheat flour
• Gluten
• Yeast breads
• Baking