Last Updated on October 23, 2024 by Toya
Baking powder is a key ingredient in many recipes, providing the necessary leavening to create fluffy and light baked goods.
However, if you’re out of baking powder or no longer use it, you may be looking for a great baking powder substitute that actually works. Below, is a list of 15 cleaver ways to substitute for baking powder in a pinch.
Besides the substitutes, there are also guidelines on how and why to use each substitute.
15 easy ways to substitute for baking powder
1. Baking Soda and Vinegar
Ratio: 1/4 teaspoon baking soda + 1/2 teaspoon vinegar
How To Use: Combine the two just before mixing into your batter. The reaction will create carbon dioxide, which helps your baked goods rise.
2. Baking Soda and Lemon Juice
Ratio: 1/4 teaspoon baking soda + 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
Use: Similar to vinegar, mix them just before incorporating them into your batter. The acidity of lemon juice activates the baking soda.
3. Baking Soda and Yogurt
Ratio: 1/4 teaspoon baking soda + 1/2 cup yogurt (reduce other liquids)
Use: Mix the baking soda into the yogurt before adding it to your dry ingredients. This works best in moist recipes like muffins or cakes.
4. Baking Soda and Buttermilk
Ratio: 1/4 teaspoon baking soda + 1/2 cup buttermilk (reduce other liquids)
Use: Combine baking soda with buttermilk, adjusting your liquid ingredients accordingly. This is ideal for pancakes and waffles.
5. Self-Rising Flour
Ratio: Substitute an equal amount of self-rising flour for all-purpose flour
Use: Since self-rising flour contains baking powder, adjust the recipe to eliminate additional baking powder.
6. Cream of Tartar and Baking Soda
Ratio: 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar + 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
Use: Mix these two together as a direct substitute for 1 teaspoon of baking powder. Great for cookies and cakes.
7. Molasses and Baking Soda
Ratio: 1/4 teaspoon baking soda + 1/2 cup molasses (reduce other liquids)
Use: The acidity in molasses activates the baking soda. Best for rich desserts like gingerbread.
8. Sour Cream
Ratio: 1/2 cup sour cream + 1/4 teaspoon baking soda (reduce other liquids)
Use: Mix sour cream with baking soda, adjusting the liquid ingredients. Works well in cakes and muffins.
9. Applesauce and Baking Soda
Ratio: 1/4 teaspoon baking soda + 1/2 cup applesauce (reduce other liquids)
Use: Combine baking soda with applesauce to provide moisture and leavening. Great for healthy baking.
10. Club Soda
Ratio: Substitute club soda for the liquid in your recipe
Use: The carbonation in club soda helps leaven baked goods. Works well in pancakes and quick breads.
11. Whipped Egg Whites
Ratio: 1 egg white per teaspoon of baking powder
Use: Beat egg whites until stiff peaks form, then gently fold them into the batter. Ideal for soufflés and cakes.
12. Vinegar and Baking Soda
Ratio: 1 teaspoon baking soda + 1 tablespoon vinegar
Use: Mix them together just before adding to your recipe. This works for cakes, cupcakes, and brownies.
13. Nut Milk and Baking Soda
Ratio: 1/4 teaspoon baking soda + 1/2 cup nut milk (reduce other liquids)
Use: Mix baking soda with nut milk before adding to your batter. Good for dairy-free baking.
14. Beer
Ratio: Substitute beer for the liquid in your recipe
Use: The carbonation in beer acts as a leavening agent, perfect for pancakes, waffles, and bread.
15. Aquafaba
Ratio: 3 tablespoons aquafaba (chickpea brine) = 1 egg white or 1 teaspoon baking powder
Use: Whip aquafaba until fluffy and fold it into your batter. A great option for vegan baking.
With this handy list of baking powder substitutes, you will never wonder how to replace baking powder again!