Home / Baking & Leavening / Baking powder
What can I use instead of baking powder?
Best substitute for 1 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp baking soda + 1/2 tsp cream of tartar
Baking soda + cream of tartar — Mix fresh; equals 1 tsp baking powder.
tsp
Amounts below are for 1 tsp baking powder
3 substitutes for baking powder
| Substitute | Use this much | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Baking soda + cream of tartar | 1/4 tsp baking soda + 1/2 tsp cream of tartar | Mix fresh; equals 1 tsp baking powder. |
| Baking soda + lemon juice | 1/4 tsp baking soda + 1/2 tsp lemon juice | Use right away. |
| Baking soda + buttermilk | 1/4 tsp baking soda + 1/2 cup buttermilk | Replace 1/2 cup of recipe liquid with buttermilk. |
Baking powder is baking soda plus a dry acid. If you're out, you can build the same lift from baking soda and an acid you already have.
Tips
- 1 tsp baking powder = 1/4 tsp baking soda + 1/2 tsp cream of tartar.
- Baking-soda swaps need an acid to activate.
FAQ
- Can I use baking soda instead of baking powder?
- Only with added acid - 1/4 tsp soda + 1/2 tsp cream of tartar equals 1 tsp baking powder.
- What if I have no leavening at all?
- Self-rising flour already contains baking powder and salt.