Substitute for Self-Rising Flour
All-purpose flour pre-mixed with baking powder and salt. Used in biscuits, pancakes, and quick breads.
The Best Substitute
The Professor's top pick for replacing self-rising flour is All-Purpose Flour + Baking Powder + Salt at a ratio of 1 cup all-purpose flour + 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder + 1/4 teaspoon salt = 1 cup self-rising flour. This works well for all applications. Scroll down for complete details on every option, including what to use each one for and what to avoid.
Best Substitutes
All-Purpose Flour + Baking Powder + Salt
Flavor impact: Identical. This is what self-rising flour is.
Dairy-free
Self-rising flour is just flour with leavening and salt pre-mixed. If you have all-purpose flour and baking powder, you have self-rising flour. No need to buy a separate bag.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not for yeast bread. The baking powder in self-rising flour interferes with yeast. Use all-purpose or bread flour for yeast-risen breads.
The Bottom Line
If you are out of self-rising flour, the best all-around substitute is all-purpose flour + baking powder + salt. Pay attention to the ratio, since substitutes rarely work at exactly 1:1. Consider what role self-rising flour plays in your recipe; whether it provides flavor, texture, acidity, or structure; and choose the substitute that best fills that specific role. When in doubt, start with less and adjust to taste.
Source: Culinary reference | Last verified: March 19, 2026 | Our methodology