If you fancy yourself a baker, using a variety of flours can be a fantastic way to mix up classic recipes or create new textures in your baked goods. Standing in front of the flours at the grocery store can be a little intimidating, so the professionals at Cranberry Country Market in Tomah, WI, have some tips on choosing, as well as how to use a few of their favorite every day and unconventional flours.

Here’s a breakdown on different types of flour and how to use them in baking:

• Bleached or Unbleached? Technically, every all-purpose flour is bleached either with non-harmful chemicals added to the flour or naturally over time. The bright, pure white color typically associated with flour is usually bleached flour, which has a small percentage less protein than unbleached. Bleached flour is ideal for pie crusts, cookies, or waffles, while unbleached flour is better for yeast breads and pastries.
• Bring on the Gluten: It may be trendy to be gluten-free, but baking and gluten are best friends. High gluten flour can often be found in specialty grocery stores and is excellent for bread making, diabetic breads, or mixed with other flours for texture and rise.
• Mix It Up for Your Health: Some alternative flours are not only high-quality ingredients, but they pack more of a nutritional punch that standard all-purpose flour. Spelt, for example, has more protein, less calories, and is easier to digest than standard wheat flour. Oat flour can help lower cholesterol, decrease blood pressure, and is a great alternative for those with gluten intolerance.
• Get Specific: Some recipes call for specific flours for a reason, and seeking out the right ingredients can make your final cooking results truly shine. Semolina flour is a common flour recommendation for pasta making because of its high protein and gluten levels. Seeking out semolina for pasta will result in a less gummy noodle with a nice bite and structure.

If you’re ready to start seeking out new and interesting flours for your next cooking project, stop by the Cranberry Country Market, conveniently located in Tomah between the I-90 and I-94 divide. Give them a call at (608) 374-4944 or visit their website to see their wide selection of fresh produce, cheese, vitamins and supplements and more.