⚡ Quick Cornstarch Conversions
💡 Pro Tip: In the UK, "cornflour" = US "cornstarch" (NOT corn flour!)
Complete Cornstarch Conversion Chart
Grams to Cups Cornstarch Converter
Need to convert the other way? Here are common gram measurements:
- 100g cornstarch = 3/4 cup + 1 tablespoon
- 50g cornstarch = 6 tablespoons + 1 teaspoon
- 200g cornstarch = 1 1/2 cups + 1 tablespoon
- 25g cornstarch = 3 tablespoons
Why Your Cornstarch Might Not Be Working
🚨 Cornstarch Troubleshooting Guide
Problem: Sauce Won't Thicken
- ✗ Too Much Heat: Cornstarch breaks down above 203°F (95°C)
- ✗ Too Much Acid: Lemon juice or vinegar reduces thickening power
- ✗ Over-stirring: Breaks down starch molecules
- ✓ Solution: Lower heat, add acid last, stir gently
Problem: Lumpy or Cloudy Results
- ✗ Added directly to hot liquid
- ✓ Solution: Always make a slurry with cold liquid first (1:1 ratio)
Perfect Cornstarch Ratios for Every Use
🥧 Fruit Pie Fillings
- Apple/Pear: 2-3 tbsp per 6 cups fruit
- Berry pies: 3-4 tbsp per 6 cups fruit
- Stone fruits: 4-5 tbsp per 6 cups fruit
💡 More juice = more cornstarch needed
🍮 Sauces & Gravies
- Thin sauce: 1 tbsp per cup liquid
- Medium sauce: 2 tbsp per cup liquid
- Thick pudding: 3 tbsp per cup liquid
💡 For clear sauces, use cornstarch. For opaque, use flour
🍰 Tender Cakes
Replace 2 tbsp flour with cornstarch per cup:
- 1 cup flour → 7/8 cup + 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 cups flour → 1 3/4 cups + 4 tbsp cornstarch
💡 Creates lighter texture in cakes
Cornstarch Substitution Calculator
If you're out of cornstarch, use these conversions:
| To Replace | Use This Instead | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 tbsp cornstarch | 2 tbsp all-purpose flour | Gravies, opaque sauces |
| 1 tbsp cornstarch | 1 tbsp arrowroot powder | Clear sauces, acidic fillings |
| 1 tbsp cornstarch | 1 tbsp tapioca starch | Fruit pies, freezer-stable |
| 1 tbsp cornstarch | 1 tbsp potato starch | Gluten-free baking |
Note: Substitutions may alter texture and clarity. For best results in baking, stick with cornstarch when specified.
Professional Tips for Perfect Results
🌟 Expert Techniques
- The Slurry Method: Mix cornstarch with cold liquid (1:1) before adding to hot mixtures
- Temperature Control: Remove from heat before adding slurry, then return to gentle simmer
- Timing Matters: Add cornstarch in last 5 minutes of cooking for best results
- Avoid Aluminum: Can cause grayish color in cornstarch-thickened foods
- Storage Tip: Keep in airtight container - moisture ruins thickening power
- Test First: Old cornstarch loses potency - test with small amount first
Frequently Asked Questions
Is cornstarch the same as corn flour?
In the US, corn flour is finely ground cornmeal (yellow). In the UK/Australia, "cornflour" is what Americans call cornstarch (white powder). Always check the package - cornstarch should be pure white, not yellow.
How many grams in 1/2 cup cornstarch?
1/2 cup of cornstarch equals 64 grams or 2.3 ounces. This measurement is consistent across brands, though always sift if lumpy for accuracy.
Can I substitute flour for cornstarch?
Yes, but use twice the amount of flour (2 tbsp flour = 1 tbsp cornstarch). Note that flour creates opaque sauces while cornstarch creates clear ones. Flour also needs longer cooking to remove raw taste.
Why did my cornstarch-thickened filling become thin again?
This happens from overcooking (breaks down starch), over-stirring (mechanical breakdown), or too much acid. Cook only until thickened, stir gently, and add acidic ingredients like lemon juice at the end.
Can I use cornstarch in gluten-free baking?
Yes! Cornstarch is naturally gluten-free and essential in GF flour blends. It adds structure and tenderness. Typically used at 20-30% of total flour weight in gluten-free recipes. Check out our almond flour converter for more GF options.
Related Converters & Tools
Essential Baking Converters
Weight Conversions
Other Baking Powders
Recipes Using Cornstarch
Master Cornstarch Like a Pro
Now you have everything you need to measure cornstarch accurately and troubleshoot any issues. Remember the golden rule: 1 cup = 128g = 4.5 oz, and always make a slurry first!
🎯 Pro Achievement Unlocked: You now know more about cornstarch than 90% of home bakers!
Ready to put this knowledge to use? Try our high-altitude baking adjustments if you're baking above 3,000 feet, where cornstarch behaves differently.