What To Use When You Don’t Have Baking Powder

Baking powder is an essential ingredient in many baked goods. It is used to make cakes, muffins, breads, and other delicious treats rise and become light and fluffy. However, if you find yourself without baking powder, or if you are looking for a substitute that is more natural or that suits your dietary needs, there are a variety of ingredients that can be used as a substitute.

Whether you ran out and do not want to run to the store or you found yourself looking at an empty shelf there are several great opinions you can use to substitute baking powder.

Baking Soda and Acidic Ingredient

Baking soda can be used as a substitute for baking powder in recipes that call for both baking powder and an acidic ingredient, such as vinegar, lemon juice, or buttermilk.

To use baking soda as a substitute, mix 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda with 1/2 teaspoon of the acidic ingredient. This will provide the necessary chemical reaction to create a leavening effect.

Cream of Tartar

Cream of tartar is an acidic powder that can be used as a substitute for baking powder in recipes that call for both baking powder and cream of tartar. To use cream of tartar as a substitute, mix 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda with 1/2 teaspoon of cream of tartar. This will provide the necessary chemical reaction to create a leavening effect.

Yeast

Yeast is a natural leavening agent that can be used as a substitute for baking powder in recipes that call for a long rise time, such as bread or rolls. To use yeast as a substitute, dissolve 1/4 teaspoon of yeast in 1/4 cup of warm water or milk, along with 1 teaspoon of sugar.

Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbly, then use it in place of baking powder in your recipe.

Whipped Egg Whites

Whipped egg whites can be used as a substitute for baking powder in recipes that call for a light and fluffy texture, such as angel food cake or meringues. To use whipped egg whites as a substitute, beat 2 egg whites until they are stiff, then fold them gently into the batter in place of the baking powder.

Self-Rising Flour

Self-rising flour is a type of flour that already contains baking powder and salt, and can be used as a substitute for baking powder in recipes that call for flour as the main ingredient. To use self-rising flour as a substitute, simply replace the regular flour and baking powder with self-rising flour in the recipe.

Buttermilk

Buttermilk is a tangy, acidic ingredient that can be used as a substitute for baking powder in recipes that call for an acidic ingredient. To use buttermilk as a substitute, replace the baking powder with 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda, and add 1/2 cup of buttermilk to the recipe.

There are many substitutes for baking powder that can be used in a variety of recipes. Baking soda and an acidic ingredient, cream of tartar, yeast, whipped egg whites, self-rising flour, and buttermilk are all great alternatives to baking powder, and can provide the necessary chemical reaction to make your baked goods light and fluffy.

When substituting ingredients, it’s important to keep in mind the texture and flavor that you are trying to achieve, as well as any dietary restrictions or preferences. By experimenting with different substitutes, you can create delicious baked goods that suit your needs and taste preferences.