Self-Rising Flour Substitute

Self-rising flour is plain flour with leavening and salt already mixed in. One quick formula makes it from all-purpose flour.

Quick answer

Best all-round substitute for self-rising flour: All-purpose flour + baking powder + salt — use 1 cup flour + 1.5 tsp baking powder + 1/4 tsp salt. Whisk together well before using.

Self-Rising Flour substitutes & ratios

Substitute	Ratio	Notes
All-purpose flour + baking powder + salt	1 cup flour + 1.5 tsp baking powder + 1/4 tsp salt	Whisk together well before using.

Which one should you use?

Scale the formula to your recipe: for every cup of self-rising flour needed, whisk 1.5 teaspoons baking powder and 1/4 teaspoon salt into 1 cup of all-purpose flour. Sift or whisk thoroughly so the leavening is evenly distributed.

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⚠️ Allergy & diet note: if you're substituting because of an allergy or medical diet, always confirm your chosen swap is free of your allergen — for example, almond flour contains tree nuts, soy and dairy appear in some swaps, and oats must be labeled certified gluten-free for a celiac diet. This page is general cooking guidance, not medical or dietary advice.

FAQ

How do I make self-rising flour?

For each cup of self-rising flour, whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1.5 teaspoons baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Mix thoroughly so the leavening is evenly distributed, then use it 1:1.

Can I use plain flour instead of self-rising flour?

Not on its own — your bake won't rise. Add 1.5 teaspoons baking powder and 1/4 teaspoon salt per cup of plain flour to turn it into self-rising flour.

More substitutes

Egg Buttermilk Baking Powder Cornstarch Heavy Cream Sour Cream Butter Brown Sugar Breadcrumbs Vegetable Oil Milk Honey Lemon Juice

General home-cooking guidance; results vary by recipe. Ratios are starting points — adjust to taste and texture.