Substitute for Baking Powder in Muffins: Domed and Fluffy
When making muffins, the best substitute for baking powder is Baking Soda + Lemon Juice. Quick and effective. Add lemon juice to wet ingredients and baking soda to dry. Mix together and get into the oven quickly. Muffins will rise with a nice dome. Baking powder gives muffins their domed tops and light, tender crumb. Most muffin recipes use 1-2 teaspoons for proper rise. Without it, muffins will be dense and flat. The substitute must create enough lift for a good dome.
Best Substitute
Baking Soda + Lemon Juice
1/4 tsp baking soda + 1 tsp lemon juice per tsp of baking powder
Quick and effective. Add lemon juice to wet ingredients and baking soda to dry. Mix together and get into the oven quickly. Muffins will rise with a nice dome.
What else can I use instead of baking powder in muffins?
Baking Soda + Cream of Tartar
1/4 tsp baking soda + 1/2 tsp cream of tartar per tsp of baking powder
The exact recreation of baking powder. Sift with flour for even distribution. Most reliable substitute.
Self-Rising Flour
Replace AP flour with self-rising flour and skip baking powder and salt
Self-rising flour already has baking powder and salt. Easiest swap when making standard muffins.
Yogurt + Baking Soda
2 tbsp yogurt + 1/4 tsp baking soda per tsp of baking powder
Adds moisture and tang. Reduces other liquids by 2 tbsp. Creates extra-tender, moist muffins.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I use if I don't have baking powder for muffins?
Use 1/4 teaspoon baking soda plus 1 teaspoon lemon juice per teaspoon of baking powder. Or swap self-rising flour for AP flour and skip the baking powder and salt. Both produce muffins with a nice domed top.
Can I skip baking powder in muffins?
No. Without any leavening, muffins will be dense, flat, and heavy. You need some form of leavening, whether that is baking powder, baking soda + acid, or whipped egg whites.