Xanthan gum is a powder-like substance used in Gluten free baking. Gluten is the substance in regular flour that helps to bind ingredients together and keeps them from falling apart. When you bake with Gluten Free flours, this binding property is absent. Xanthan gum is a by-product protein coat derived from inactive bacterium. You have probably had this many times, as it is a very common ingredient in salad dressings and condiments. A teaspoon or two of this is all you need in each recipe to provide the necessary binding in your baked goods. Xanthan gum is rather expensive-10-12 dollars in US Supermarkets, but since only a very small amount is needed each time, it is well worth the purchase. Bob's Red Mill is a dedicated Gluten Free Baking Products Company available at many Health food stores and also on the net. Guar gum is another binding agent which can be used, but caution should be heeded, in that guart gum is known to have a very strong laxative effect on those not accustomed to its use.

Happy Baking!