There are a few different types of gluten-free cakes. One type is a homemade cake that uses many gluten-free ingredients. It is also possible to buy gluten-free cake mixes, which are similar to regular cake mixes in how they are prepared. Many towns and cities have gluten-free bakeries where pre-made gluten-free cakes can be ordered and picked up. Almost any cake flavor that can be made with wheat flour can be turned into a gluten-free dessert.
Homemade gluten-free cakes are often made from scratch. This means that the baker is using whole ingredients. A cake that does not contain gluten does have to contain some type of gluten-free flour, which could include rice, tapioca, or potato flour. Many times, it is a combination of several gluten-free flours that creates the best cakes. Other common cake ingredients such as eggs, oil, or butter are naturally gluten-free.
Many grocery stores sell gluten-free cake mixes. These mixes are much like any other cake mix. The baker often has to add eggs, milk, and butter, but the rest of the dry ingredients are included in the mix. Some gluten-free cake mixes turn out better than others, but they are often quick and easy to make. Gluten-free packaged foods are usually in the gluten-free section of the grocery store or found at specialty food shops.
Gluten-free cakes that are ready to order can be found at dedicated gluten-free bakeries. These bakeries only make gluten-free desserts and breads so that there is no chance of cross-contamination from other gluten-based foods. Many gluten-free bakeries will allow customers to choose the type of cake to be made. Sometimes, pre-made gluten-free cakes are ready and can be purchased directly.
These cakes can come in many different flavors just like traditional cakes. It is easy to make or purchase chocolate, white, or strawberry gluten-free cakes. These flavors can make good gluten-free birthday cakes. There are also other choices such as gluten-free spice cake and even cheesecake. Many people on a gluten-free diet will even order their wedding cakes from a gluten-free bakery.
The downside to gluten-free cakes is that they can be much more costly than traditional cakes. Making a cake at home can help to cut costs, but gluten-free ingredients, especially flours, are often much higher in price than wheat flour. Gluten-free mixes can also cost a bit more since they are often made by a dedicated gluten-free food company. Bakeries specializing in gluten-free goods often do the best job with these types of cakes, but can be the most expensive option.