Baking Soda + Cream of Tartar Substitute for Baking Powder: Exact Ratio
Looking for a baking powder substitute? Baking Soda + Cream of Tartar works as a direct replacement. Use 1 tsp baking powder = 1/4 tsp baking soda + 1/2 tsp cream of tartar in any recipe that calls for baking powder. This swap works best for cakes, muffins, biscuits.
Best Substitute
Baking Soda + Cream of Tartar
1 tsp baking powder = 1/4 tsp baking soda + 1/2 tsp cream of tartar
The classic homemade baking powder. Mix fresh for each use since it only provides single-acting leavening.
Flavor & Texture Change
Identical to commercial baking powder. No flavor difference. The lift may be slightly less since commercial baking powder has a second rise in the oven.
When Not to Use
This is single-acting (reacts immediately when wet), unlike commercial baking powder which is double-acting (reacts again in the oven). Get your batter in the oven quickly after mixing.
Tips When Replacing Baking Powder in Recipes
Baking powder loses potency over time. Test by adding 1 tsp to 1/3 cup hot water—it should bubble vigorously. Replace every 6-12 months. Double-acting baking powder reacts twice: once when wet and again when heated.
What Is Baking Powder and Why Substitute It?
A chemical leavening agent containing baking soda and an acid, used to make baked goods rise without needing additional acidic ingredients.
Baking Soda + Cream of Tartar is one of 6 alternatives you can use instead of baking powder. For a complete list of baking powder substitutes with ratios and cooking tips, visit the full baking powder substitute page.
What Else Can I Use Instead of Baking Powder?
Baking Soda + Lemon Juice instead of Baking Powder
View substitute ratio →
Baking Soda + Yogurt instead of Baking Powder
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Baking Soda + Vinegar instead of Baking Powder
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Whipped Egg Whites instead of Baking Powder
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Self-Rising Flour (replace regular flour) instead of Baking Powder
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use baking soda + cream of tartar instead of baking powder?
Yes, you can use baking soda + cream of tartar as a substitute for baking powder. Use 1 tsp baking powder = 1/4 tsp baking soda + 1/2 tsp cream of tartar. The classic homemade baking powder. Mix fresh for each use since it only provides single-acting leavening.
How much baking soda + cream of tartar equals baking powder?
Use 1 tsp baking powder = 1/4 tsp baking soda + 1/2 tsp cream of tartar to replace baking powder with baking soda + cream of tartar. Works best for cakes, muffins, biscuits.
What is the best substitute for baking powder?
Baking Soda + Cream of Tartar is a popular substitute for baking powder. Use 1 tsp baking powder = 1/4 tsp baking soda + 1/2 tsp cream of tartar for a 1-to-1 replacement. See all 6 alternatives on our baking powder substitute page.
Does baking soda + cream of tartar change the taste when replacing baking powder?
This is single-acting (reacts immediately when wet), unlike commercial baking powder which is double-acting (reacts again in the oven). Get your batter in the oven quickly after mixing.
Is baking soda + cream of tartar a vegan substitute for baking powder?
Yes, baking soda + cream of tartar is vegan and works as a plant-based alternative to baking powder. Use 1 tsp baking powder = 1/4 tsp baking soda + 1/2 tsp cream of tartar.