What can I substitute for baking powder?
Running low on baking powder? Here are the best verified substitutes, including how to adjust your measurements.
About baking powder
Baking powder is a commercial leavening agent made from sodium bicarbonate mixed with an acid and a moisture absorber, designed to create lift in baked goods. It has a slightly salty, metallic taste and fine, talc-like texture. When combined with wet ingredients, it releases carbon dioxide gas that creates air bubbles throughout cakes, biscuits, and quick breads, resulting in a light, risen crumb. Most baking powders are double-acting, releasing gas both when mixed and during baking.
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Dietary labels are general guidance based on typical composition. Not a guarantee — see disclaimer.
Best substitute
Baking soda + cream of tartar
Mix ¼ teaspoon baking soda with ½ teaspoon cream of tartar to replace 1 teaspoon baking powder.
Use ¼ tsp baking soda + ½ tsp cream of tartar for every 1 tsp baking powder.
Dairy-freeVeganGluten-freeNut-free
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Alternative
Self-raising flour
Replace all-purpose flour with self-raising flour and omit the baking powder entirely.
Replace plain flour with self-raising flour — it already contains baking powder.
View Self-raising flour substitute guide →Dairy-freeVeganNut-free
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