What is Carob Flour and How To Use It?

Have you tried carob flour? Not to be confused with cacao powder, this interesting flour alternative has some unique characteristics worth exploring in the kitchen from both a flavour and nutritional perspective.

What is Carob Flour?

Carob comes from a pod of a tree of the same name, which is native to the Mediterranean. The ripe pods contain a sweet pulp that is dried, roasted, and then ground into a powder, otherwise known as carob flour.

In cake batters, carob flour performs just like other flours.

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Carob vs chocolate

Unlike cocoa powder, carob flour contains virtually no fat, so it will perform differently to cacao in cooking in the sense that it won't melt or burn.

Carob powder is less bitter than chocolate and naturally sweet flavour as well as being caffeine-free and high in fibre.

Carob can be substituted for chocolate powder in equal parts.

What are the nutritional benefits of carob powder?

Carob is rich in calcium, vitamin A and B and minerals.

Carob recipes

Now you're convinced about this alternative baking solution, why not try giving it a go in a selection of recipes.

Spiced carob cookies

These spiced carob cookies from Healthful Pursuit are made with coconut and are naturally caffeine free, grain free and vegan.

Carob banana bread

This delicious carob banana bread recipe from Nirvana Cakery is the perfect guilt free, comfort food treat. Try it sliced still warm from the oven topped with a vegan spread.