Converting US Flour to UK Plain Flour and Self-Raising Flour

Question

Please could someone give me a way to convert US flour to UK flour types.
I would love to be able to adjust my US flours to equate to UK plain flour and UK self raising flour.

Lynn Clark · Accepted Answer

Hi Sue - Plain flour is the British version of all-purpose flour, but with a much lower 7- to 10-percent protein content (American all-purpose flour is made with harder wheat, creating a 10-to 11-percent protein level). This can change the texture of tender-crumbed baked goods such as scones and sponge cakes but won’t affect those that require more gluten development, like cinnamon rolls. For more delicate desserts, I would use cake flour, which has 8 percent protein and is a closer match to plain flour. American self-rising flour contains baking powder \and\ salt, since this type of flour is often used to create Southern-style biscuits. UK self-raising flour contains only the baking powder and has a lower protein percentage. They’re basic equivalents, but tweaking may be required depending on the recipe. Pay attention to the salt content of the recipe and adjust accordingly. Good luck! Best, Lynn C.

Converting US Flour to UK Plain Flour and Self-Raising Flour

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