What can I substitute for xanthan gum?

Running low on xanthan gum? Here are the best verified substitutes, including how to adjust your measurements.

xanthan gum — ingredient substitution guide — Photo by Ron Lach on Pexels

About xanthan gum

Xanthan gum is a polysaccharide produced through the fermentation of sugars by the bacterium Xanthomonas campestris, widely used as a food additive and thickening agent. It provides viscosity, stability, and elasticity to foods at very low concentrations, making it essential in gluten-free baking to mimic the binding properties of gluten. It is also commonly used in salad dressings, sauces, and ice cream to prevent ingredient separation and improve texture.

Best substitute

psyllium husk powder

Psyllium husk powder is a natural fibre that absorbs water and forms a gel, providing excellent binding and elasticity in gluten-free baking. It works especially well in breads and pizza dough where a chewy, structured texture is desired.

Use 2 tsp for every 1 tsp of xanthan gum

gluten-free bakingbreadpizza doughsaucessalad dressings

Alternative

guar gum

Guar gum is derived from guar beans and acts as a potent thickener and binder with similar properties to xanthan gum, though it performs better in cold applications and can produce a slightly beany flavour at higher concentrations. It is best used in a slightly smaller quantity than xanthan gum.

Use ¾ tsp for every 1 tsp of xanthan gum

gluten-free bakingcold saucesice creamsmoothieshigh-heat applications

Alternative

What is xanthan gum called in other countries?

Country	Name
Australia	xanthan gum
United Kingdom	xanthan gum
United States	xanthan gum

Common names for xanthan gum

xanthancorn sugar gumE415

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Ground chia seeds absorb liquid and form a thick gel rich in natural fibre, providing binding properties suitable for baked goods. They add a mild nutty flavour and slight texture, and work best when pre-soaked in water before use.

Use 1 tbsp ground chia seeds mixed with 2 tbsp water for every 1 tsp of xanthan gum

gluten-free bakingmuffinscookiessaucessalad dressingsdelicate pastry

Alternative

flaxseed meal

Flaxseed meal mixed with water creates a viscous, gel-like slurry that binds ingredients in baked goods similarly to xanthan gum, while also adding a mild nutty flavour. It is most effective in dense baked goods such as muffins, quick breads, and pancakes.

Use 1 tbsp flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tbsp water for every 1 tsp of xanthan gum

muffinsquick breadspancakessauceslight cakessalad dressings

Alternative

arrowroot powder

Arrowroot powder is a fine starch that thickens sauces and gravies effectively and produces a clear, glossy finish. While it lacks the elastic binding power of xanthan gum in baking, it is a useful thickener for liquid-based applications and works well combined with other binders.

Use 2 tsp for every 1 tsp of xanthan gum

saucesgraviespuddingsgluten-free breadpizza doughwhipping

What can I substitute for xanthan gum?

psyllium husk powder

guar gum

What is xanthan gum called in other countries?

Common names for xanthan gum

Related ingredients

chia seeds (ground)

flaxseed meal

arrowroot powder