Trader Joe’s Blanched Almond Flour is made from finely ground blanched almonds, making it an excellent gluten-free, grain-free, and low-carb alternative to traditional flour. The “blanched” process removes the skins of the almonds, resulting in a smoother texture that's ideal for baking. With its mild, slightly nutty flavor, it’s perfect for everything from cookies to pancakes.
Sold in a 16 oz resealable bag, this almond flour is a pantry staple for anyone following gluten-free, paleo, or keto diets. Trader Joe’s offers it at a competitive price compared to many other brands, making it accessible for home bakers and culinary enthusiasts alike.
Review of Trader Joe’s Blanched Almond Flour
Texture and Versatility
As someone who enjoys experimenting with different types of flours, Trader Joe’s Blanched Almond Flour is a fantastic find. The fine grind is perfect for baking, giving your recipes a smooth, light texture that doesn’t feel gritty. It works especially well in cakes, cookies, and quick breads. One of the most impressive things about this product is how well it holds up in gluten-free recipes, where texture can often be a concern.
When making pancakes or muffins, I found that it gives a nice moisture to the final product, which can sometimes be a challenge with other gluten-free flours. The natural fats from the almonds help keep the baked goods from drying out.
Taste
It has a subtle nuttiness that adds a little extra depth of flavor to baked goods without overpowering the recipe. This flour isn’t as strong in taste as whole ground almonds, which makes it versatile across sweet and savory dishes. I love using it to make my almond flour cookies, where the nuttiness complements chocolate or fruity flavors.
Affordability
Compared to other almond flour brands, this product is reasonably priced. Given how pricey some gluten-free or paleo-friendly flours can get, Trader Joe’s offers a high-quality option that won’t break the bank, especially considering the cost of almond products in general.
Overall
This is a pantry staple in my household. It's affordable and great for baking. The resealable bag makes it easy to store.
Ingredients
The only ingredient in Trader Joe’s Blanched Almond Flour is blanched almonds. This minimal ingredient list is great for those looking for a natural, clean product. The almonds are processed without their skins, giving the flour a smooth, fine texture that's ideal for baked goods. It’s naturally gluten-free, grain-free, and suitable for many dietary preferences, including keto and paleo.
Nutritional Benefits
Almond flour is rich in protein, healthy fats, and vitamin E, making it not only a versatile baking ingredient but also a nutrient-dense one. It’s lower in carbohydrates than traditional wheat flour, making it popular for low-carb and gluten-free diets.
How to Use Trader Joe’s Blanched Almond Flour
Baking
This shines in baked goods, where its fine texture blends well. Try it in:
- Cookies: Substitute almond flour in gluten-free cookie recipes for a soft, chewy texture.
- Cakes: Use it in almond flour cake recipes, where it adds moisture without the need for extra fats.
- Pancakes: Almond flour pancakes are light, fluffy, and perfect for a low-carb breakfast.
As a Thickener
Almond flour can also be used as a thickener in sauces and gravies, particularly in recipes where you need a gluten-free or paleo-friendly alternative.
Recipe Suggestions
- Almond Flour Chocolate Chip Cookies
Replace regular flour with almond flour in your cookie recipe for a chewy, delicious result with a slight nuttiness that pairs well with chocolate. - Almond Flour Pancakes
Mix almond flour with eggs, a bit of baking powder, and milk (or a dairy-free alternative) for fluffy pancakes that are naturally gluten-free. - Low-Carb Almond Flour Bread
Almond flour works wonders in low-carb breads. Use it with eggs, baking powder, and a little bit of coconut flour to add structure.
FAQs about Trader Joe's Blanched Almond Flour
The following are commonly asked questions about this product:
Yes, it is completely gluten-free and a great option for those with gluten sensitivities or those following a gluten-free diet.
In most cases, almond flour cannot be substituted 1:1 for regular all-purpose flour because it lacks gluten and behaves differently. However, it works well in recipes specifically designed for almond flour or in combination with other flours.
Yes, it can be used for coating or breading when frying, giving foods a light, nutty crust. Just keep in mind that it may brown more quickly than traditional bread crumbs or flours.
Conclusion
Trader Joe’s Blanched Almond Flour is a pantry must-have for gluten-free, low-carb, and paleo bakers. Its fine texture makes it ideal for everything from cookies to pancakes, and the mild, nutty flavor complements a variety of dishes. Priced at a competitive rate, this almond flour is perfect for home bakers looking for a versatile, nutrient-rich flour alternative. While it may require some recipe adjustments, its benefits outweigh the minor learning curve.
At around $7.99 per 16 oz bag, it’s a great option for those who want high-quality almond flour without the higher price tag of other brands. If you’re ready to try your hand at gluten-free or low-carb baking, Trader Joe’s Blanched Almond Flour is definitely worth adding to your grocery list.
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Trader Joe's Blanched Almond Flour
Product Name: Trader Joe's Blanched Almond Flour
Product Description: Trader Joe’s Blanched Almond Flour is a versatile, gluten-free baking essential.
Price: $7.99
Summary
Trader Joe's Blanched Almond Flour is a pantry staple at an affordable price.
Pros
- Fine Texture: The smooth, fine texture is perfect for gluten-free and paleo baking.
- Affordable: Priced competitively compared to other almond flour brands.
- Versatile: Works well in sweet and savory recipes, from cookies to breading.
- Nutrient-Rich: High in protein, healthy fats, and vitamin E.
Cons
- Not a 1:1 Substitute for Flour: Almond flour behaves differently from regular flour and can’t always be substituted without adjustments.
- Calories: Almond flour is more calorie-dense than traditional flours due to its higher fat content, which may be a consideration for some.
Juanita Sumner says
you read my mind - my son has just found out his allergies are exacerbated by gluten, and we've been trying all kinds of stuff. The other day I made peanut butter cookies with flour I ground from rice - they turned out great! We live in rice and "amund" country, so this almond flour recipe of yours is the next one we will try. Thanks very much!