Skip to content

White Vinegar Substitute for Cream of Tartar: Exact Ratio

Looking for a cream of tartar substitute? White Vinegar works as a direct replacement. Use 1 tsp cream of tartar = 2 tsp white vinegar in any recipe that calls for cream of tartar. This swap works best for baking, red velvet cake, buttermilk biscuits.

Best Substitute

White Vinegar

1 tsp cream of tartar = 2 tsp white vinegar

Provides the same acidic function. The vinegar taste bakes off. Use distilled white vinegar for the most neutral flavor.

VeganThis substitute is vegan-friendlyGluten-FreeThis substitute is gluten-freeBakingRed velvet cakeButtermilk biscuits

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.

White Vinegar 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 white vinegar instead of cream of tartar?

Yes, you can use white vinegar as a substitute for cream of tartar. Use 1 tsp cream of tartar = 2 tsp white vinegar. Provides the same acidic function. The vinegar taste bakes off. Use distilled white vinegar for the most neutral flavor.

How much white vinegar equals cream of tartar?

Use 1 tsp cream of tartar = 2 tsp white vinegar to replace cream of tartar with white vinegar. Works best for baking, red velvet cake, buttermilk biscuits.

What is the best substitute for cream of tartar?

White Vinegar is a popular substitute for cream of tartar. Use 1 tsp cream of tartar = 2 tsp white vinegar for a 1-to-1 replacement. See all 5 alternatives on our cream of tartar substitute page.

Is white vinegar a vegan substitute for cream of tartar?

Yes, white vinegar is vegan and works as a plant-based alternative to cream of tartar. Use 1 tsp cream of tartar = 2 tsp white vinegar.