What is baking powder?
Baking powder is a leavening agent that’s often used in baking. We classify it here as a dry baking ingredient, which is kind of our catchall for things that don’t fit under one of the other ingredient categories.
Baking powder itself is composed of two salts: an acidic salt and an alkaline salt. These two salts react when combined with moisture and produce a carbon dioxide gas. The carbon dioxide gas that’s produces is what causes batter and dough to rise.
With that said, there are two different types of baking powder that effectively do the same thing: single-acting and double-acting.
Single-acting baking powder: Single-acting baking powder are most commonly used in quick recipes, like muffins, which don’t require long baking times. Single-acting baking powder release carbon dioxide gas when it comes into contact with moisture.
Double-acting baking powder: Double-acting baking powder is more commonly used in recipes that require longer baking times, such as cakes. It works in two phases (hence the ‘double’). In the first phase, the baking powder is moistened and in the second phase, heat is applied to the baking powder.
Is baking powder vegan?
The main ingredient in baking powder is called sodium bicarbonate, which is vegan-friendly. Sodium bicarbonate is a natural occurring substance. When it’s combined with acid, it creates carbon dioxide. The carbon dioxide that’s produced then helps baked goods rise.
So, generally speaking, yes! Baking powder is vegan – most of the time. However, some brands elect to use animal products in their baking powders. It’s important to check the label if you’re using a new brand of baking powder.
What is baking powder used for?
Baking powder is used as a leavening agent in baking. It helps baked goods such as cakes, cupcakes and muffins rise. Rising is what creates a light and fluffy baked good which is why you’ll find it in any recipe that needs rising, like pancakes, waffles and breads.
Baking powder substitutes
There are several substitutes for baking powder if you’ve run out or just need a healthier alternative. These are the most popular substitutes for baking powder:
Self-rising flour: Self-rising flour is a flour that already contains baking powder. You can replace baking powder by using the same amount of self-rising flour as the recipe calls for.
Plain yogurt: Yogurt can be used as a baking powder substitute because it contains acid and bicarbonate. Again, just use the same amount of yogurt as the called for in the recipe.
Lemon juice: Lemon juice is a little bit trickier to use to replace baking powder, but it’s still a good option if you’re in a pinch. Use 2 teaspoons of lemon juice for every 1 teaspoon of baking powder the recipe calls for. If you use lemon juice, you may also need to use slightly more liquid to make up for the moisture loss during cooking.
What’s the difference between baking powder and baking soda?
If you’re confused by baking powder and baking soda, well… You’re definitely not alone! These two ingredients are very often confused for one another. But even though they have a similar purpose and they look very similar, they are actually different. So, what’s the difference?
Baking soda is a single-ingredient leavening agent that’s activated by moisture and acid. It’s activate by moisture and acid (like lemon juice or yogurt). When activated, baking soda releases carbon dioxide and allows baked goods to rise.
On the other hand, baking powder is a two-ingredient leavening agent (acid and a base). Baking powder only requires moisture to activate the acid and the base. This then produces carbon dioxide gas which causes baked goods to rise.
So, as you can tell, one big difference between baking soda and baking powder is that baking powder already contains acid. The other big difference is that baking soda is significantly stronger than baking powder.
Can baking powder be used for cleaning?
Baking powder is considered a mild abrasive and makes a fantastic cleaning agent. Baking powder can remove dirt and grime from surfaces without damaging them. In addition, baking powder is also a natural deodorizer. This means that baking powder can help remove unpleasant smells from counters, sinks, bathtubs and other surfaces in the home.
To use baking powder to clean, you’ll want to combine it with water in equal parts. This will create a liquid paste that can be applied to surfaces and scrubbed gently. After scrubbing, rinse the surface with warm water then dry.
Vegan recipes that use baking powder:
Baked oatmeal bars recipe: An easy grab and go bar recipe that’s perfect for breakfast or a snack when your body needs a boost.
Banana oat pancakes recipe: Super fluffy, super delicious pancakes that don’t use any oil, butter or dairy.
Banana oat muffins recipe: These muffins are a great breakfast choice for meal prepper or those with busy mornings!
Banana bread recipe: This recipe uses common ingredients to make the perfect loaf of banana bread with ease every time.
Cinnamon roll pancakes recipe: These pancakes have cinnamon inside… Need I say more?
