I first began baking with flax years ago, when I had a customer request vegan baked goods. In order to make my recipes vegan, I would have to find substitutes for butter (not difficult, oil works) and eggs (a bit more tricky). I did some research and quickly realized that I could use flax meal to substitute for eggs with great results. The process of converting my recipes made me appreciate the versatility of baking with flax seeds!
For most baked products, moderate to high inclusion levels of ground flaxseed allow for the reduction or removal of shortening or other added oils. Shorter mixing times are required for certain products. In bread products, flaxseed addition can increase fermentation and proof times.
A Plant, Seeds, Meal & Flour
Flax is a plant with long grassy leaves. Flax seeds (also commonly known as linseeds) are small, glossy, brown seeds. High in fiber and naturally gluten-free, flax seeds make a nutritious addition to your baked goods.
Flax seeds can be ground into a “meal” or “flour,” which is how they are typically used when baking. Grinding flax seeds into a meal allows the body access to absorb the nutrition locked up in the seed. It also unlocks the natural oils and binders in the seeds, making them a great tool for baking. To grind flax seeds, simply place them in a spice or coffee grinder, or use a blender. About ¼ cup of flaxseed will yield about ½ cup of flax meal.
Simple & Delicious Flax Seed Cookies / Macaroons
FAQ
What does flaxseed replace in baking?
Can you substitute flaxseed meal for flour?
What does flaxseed do in a cake?
Why use flaxseed meal?
Can you use flax seeds in baking?
Grinding the flax seeds allows your body to access the nutrients they contain. Don’t add flax seeds to baking recipes without additional water. One of the characteristics of the flax seed is its absorbency. Because of this, it can change the texture of some doughs. Some formulas recommend adding 75 percent of the flax seed’s volume in extra water.
What is flax seed meal?
Flaxseed meal is a plant-based food that provides healthy fats, antioxidants, and fiber, which is used to improve digestive health, relieve constipation, and also to lower total blood cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein.
Does flaxseed affect baking time?
Mixing time was not impacted with the addition of flaxseed. The oils in flaxseed allowed for the removal of shortening. Dough extensibility increased with flaxseed addition, for easier working of the dough. With any bagel formula, proof time is critical. The addition of 25% ground flaxseed increased proof time six minutes in NCI tests.
How do you eat flaxseed?
Nuttier toppings: Toast whole flaxseeds in a dry skillet; let cool and then grind coarsely for a tasty addition to salads and Buddha bowls. Softer baked goods: A tablespoon or two of flaxseed meal stirred into bread doughs and batters keeps them extra moist and tender.