Oats vs Cornstarch
Density, calorie, and weight differences — and whether they can substitute for each other.
Substitution Verdict
Density difference: 38.1%. Significant difference — not a 1:1 substitute, recipe may need rebalancing.
Calories per 100 g: Oats 389 kcal vs Cornstarch 381 kcal. Difference: 8 kcal — Oats is higher.
Weight Conversions (per Spoon and Cup)
| Measure | Oats | Cornstarch |
|---|---|---|
| 1 tablespoon | 5 g | 8 g |
| 1 teaspoon | 1.7 g | 2.5 g |
| 1 cup | 81 g | 120 g |
| Density | 0.34 g/ml | 0.5 g/ml |
Measuring Tips
Cooking ratio: 1 cup oats : 2 cups water (rolled) or 1:3 (steel-cut). Quick oats are denser (0.4 g/ml) than rolled (0.34) due to thinner flakes. Steel-cut oats are much denser (0.7 g/ml).
Always make a slurry with cold liquid before adding to hot mixtures — clumps if added directly to hot liquid.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Oats be substituted for Cornstarch?▾
Significant difference — not a 1:1 substitute, recipe may need rebalancing. Density of Oats is 0.34 g/ml; Cornstarch is 0.5 g/ml — a 38.1% difference. But flavor, moisture, and chemistry can still differ — verify suitability for the specific recipe.
How many grams in 1 tablespoon of Oats vs Cornstarch?▾
1 tbsp Oats ≈ 5 g. 1 tbsp Cornstarch ≈ 8 g. By weight: 1 tbsp Oats = 0.63 tbsp Cornstarch.
Which has more calories, Oats or Cornstarch?▾
Per 100 g: Oats 389 kcal, Cornstarch 381 kcal. Oats has 8 more kcal.
What is Oats typically used for?▾
Oats is commonly used in: porridge, overnight oats, granola, cookies. Source: usda-fdc.
What is Cornstarch typically used for?▾
Cornstarch is commonly used in: thickening sauces, Chinese stir-fry, fruit pie filling, custards. Source: king-arthur, usda-fdc.