Lemon Juice Substitute for Cream of Tartar: Exact Ratio
Looking for a cream of tartar substitute? Lemon Juice works as a direct replacement. Use 1 tsp cream of tartar = 2 tsp lemon juice in any recipe that calls for cream of tartar. This swap works best for activating baking soda, snickerdoodles, sugar cookies.
Best Substitute
Lemon Juice
1 tsp cream of tartar = 2 tsp lemon juice
Provides acidity to activate baking soda. Adds a small amount of liquid—reduce other liquids slightly if needed.
Tips When Replacing Cream of Tartar in Recipes
For stabilizing whipped egg whites (meringue), cream of tartar is uniquely effective. Lemon juice is the best substitute for this purpose—add 1/2 tsp per 2-3 egg whites. Cream of tartar also prevents sugar syrups from crystallizing.
What Is Cream of Tartar and Why Substitute It?
Potassium bitartrate, an acidic byproduct of winemaking used to stabilize egg whites, prevent sugar crystallization, and activate baking soda.
Lemon Juice is one of 5 alternatives you can use instead of cream of tartar. For a complete list of cream of tartar substitutes with ratios and cooking tips, visit the full cream of tartar substitute page.
What Else Can I Use Instead of Cream of Tartar?
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use lemon juice instead of cream of tartar?
Yes, you can use lemon juice as a substitute for cream of tartar. Use 1 tsp cream of tartar = 2 tsp lemon juice. Provides acidity to activate baking soda. Adds a small amount of liquid—reduce other liquids slightly if needed.
How much lemon juice equals cream of tartar?
Use 1 tsp cream of tartar = 2 tsp lemon juice to replace cream of tartar with lemon juice. Works best for activating baking soda, snickerdoodles, sugar cookies.
What is the best substitute for cream of tartar?
Lemon Juice is a popular substitute for cream of tartar. Use 1 tsp cream of tartar = 2 tsp lemon juice for a 1-to-1 replacement. See all 5 alternatives on our cream of tartar substitute page.
Is lemon juice a vegan substitute for cream of tartar?
Yes, lemon juice is vegan and works as a plant-based alternative to cream of tartar. Use 1 tsp cream of tartar = 2 tsp lemon juice.