Baking powder is a common ingredient used in many recipes for cakes, breads, and other baked goods. It's a combination of an acid and an alkali that helps dough to rise, creating a light and fluffy texture. However, sometimes you may find yourself without any baking powder, or you may need a substitute for dietary or other reasons. Here are five alternatives to baking powder that you can use instead:
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Baking soda and cream of tartar: This is a simple mixture that can be used as a substitute for baking powder. The ratio of baking soda to cream of tartar is 1:2. For example, if a recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of baking powder, you can use 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda and 1/2 teaspoon of cream of tartar.
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Yogurt: Yogurt can be used as a substitute for baking powder, as the acid in yogurt reacts with the baking soda to help the dough rise. For every 1 teaspoon of baking powder called for in a recipe, you can use 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda and 1/4 cup of yogurt.
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Buttermilk: Buttermilk is another dairy product that contains acid and can be used as a substitute for baking powder. For every 1 teaspoon of baking powder called for in a recipe, you can use 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda and 1/4 cup of buttermilk.
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Vinegar and baking soda: Vinegar and baking soda can also be used together to help dough rise. For every 1 teaspoon of baking powder called for in a recipe, you can use 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda and 1 teaspoon of vinegar.
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Self-raising flour: If you have self-raising flour on hand, you can use it as a substitute for baking powder. Self-raising flour already contains baking powder, so you can simply use it in place of both the flour and the baking powder in a recipe.
These are five substitutes for baking powder that can help you when you run out or need a replacement. When using these substitutes, it's important to be precise with your measurements, as the ratios of acid to baking soda can greatly affect the final result.