What can I substitute for baking powder?

Q: What can I use instead of baking powder?

The best substitute for baking powder is Baking soda + cream of tartar. Mix ¼ teaspoon baking soda with ½ teaspoon cream of tartar to replace 1 teaspoon 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.

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.

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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.

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