Baking powder can be substituted with several alternatives based on the ingredients available. Common substitutes include:
- Mix 1/4 teaspoon baking soda with 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar to replace 1 teaspoon of baking powder.
- Use 1/2 cup buttermilk plus 1/4 teaspoon baking soda (reduce other liquids accordingly).
- Use 1/4 cup plain yogurt plus 1/4 teaspoon baking soda.
- Combine 1/4 teaspoon baking soda with 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice or vinegar.
- Mix 1/4 cup molasses with 1/4 teaspoon baking soda (reduce other liquids and sugar).
- Use sour milk (1/2 cup) plus 1/4 teaspoon baking soda (reduce other liquids).
- Self-rising flour can be used instead of all-purpose flour and baking powder as it already contains leavening agents.
- Whipped egg whites (2 per teaspoon baking powder) can also provide leavening.
These substitutes work because baking powder contains both an acid and a base, which react to produce carbon dioxide and cause rising. The combinations above pair an acid (like cream of tartar, lemon juice, vinegar, buttermilk, yogurt, molasses, or sour milk) with a base (baking soda) to replicate this effect.
