If you’ve ever shopped for almond flour, you may have noticed two different types sitting on the shelf: blanched and unblanched. It can be tricky to know which one to choose. They do have distinct differences that impact your baking. So, is blanched almond flour better than unblanched? Let’s dive into the details of blanched and unblanched almond flour and find out!
What’s the Difference?
Blanched almond flour is made from almonds that have had their skins removed. This makes a finer, lighter-colored flour. Unblanched almond flour, on the other hand, includes the almond skins, which gives it a coarser texture and darker color.
Why Blanched Almond Flour is Better for Baking
When it comes to baking, blanched almond flour is preferred by many bakers. Its fine texture and light color work perfectly in recipes, making it great for cakes, cookies, muffins, and bread. Unblanched flour can sometimes alter the texture and add a grainy consistency to baked goods, but blanched almond flour creates smooth, soft, results.
Color and Texture
Many people also prefer the neutral color of blanched almond flour. It doesn’t affect the appearance of pastries, making it perfect for recipes like macarons and shortbread cookies. Unblanched almond flour, having darker specks from the almond skins, can change the appearance of baked goods and sometimes make them denser.
Nutritional Benefits
Both blanched and unblanched almond flour provide the same nutrients – vitamin E to support skin health and immune function, magnesium to improve energy levels and regulate blood sugar, and fiber to help digestion. These nutrients may support heart health and lower cholesterol as well. Almond flour is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities. It is also great to use in low-carb diets because of its high protein and healthy fat content.
Because of the almond skin, unblanched almond flour does contain slightly more fiber, antioxidants, vitamin E, and polyphenols. The extra fiber supports digestion and the antioxidants promote overall health. However, some individuals find that their stomachs are sensitive to the tannins and insoluble fiber found in almond skins. For these people, unblanched almond flour is harder to digest. For those with sensitivities, blanched almond flour provides a gentler option while still offering the benefits of almonds.
Is Blanched Almond Flour Better than Unblanched?
Both types of almond flour have their uses. Unblanched flour is great to use in recipes that don’t require precise color or texture, and it’s packed with nutrients. Blanched almond flour is a better option for a lot of baking because it has a smoother texture, lighter color, and a better consistency in recipes. Blanched almond flour is also great for people with sensitive stomachs since it’s easier on digestion. Whether you’re making gluten-free treats or following a low-carb diet, blanched almond flour delivers the best results without compromising on nutrition.
Check out our Blanched Almond Flour and other Organic Almond products below! We are excited to share these delicious treats that were harvested just last year!
Recent Comments