How to Make Homemade Baking Powder

Sharing is caring!

Have you ever started baking and realized you’re out of baking powder? Or maybe you’re looking to avoid the additives found in commercial baking powders. Making your own baking powder at home is easier than you might think and requires just a few simple ingredients.  In this blog post, we’ll guide you through a quick and easy recipe to create your own baking powder using baking soda, cream of tartar, and cornstarch. Say goodbye to the metallic taste of store-bought options and hello to perfectly risen baked goods with our homemade baking powder recipe.

Jump to Recipe

**This post contains affiliate links. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn a small commission by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated websites.

What is Baking Powder and Why You Need It

Baking powder is a crucial leavening or raising agent used in baking to help dough and batter rise, resulting in light and fluffy baked goods. It is a combination of baking soda (sodium bicarbonate), an acid (usually cream of tartar), and a moisture-absorbing agent like cornstarch. When mixed with wet ingredients, baking powder undergoes a chemical reaction that produces carbon dioxide bubbles, causing the mixture to expand and rise. This process is essential for achieving the desired texture in cakes, muffins, biscuits, and many other baked treats. Without baking powder, your baked goods would be dense, flat, and lack the airy quality that makes them so delicious.

Why Make Your Own Baking Powder?

Homemade baking powder is a simple and effective alternative to store-bought options. It ensures freshness, avoids unwanted additives, and can save you a trip to the grocery store. Plus, it’s an excellent solution if you find yourself in the middle of a recipe without any baking powder on hand. Let’s dive into the details of making your own baking powder at home using common ingredients like baking soda, cream of tartar, and cornstarch.

Ingredients Needed to Making Baking Powder

Baking Soda (Sodium Bicarbonate)

• Purpose: Baking soda is a key leavening agent that reacts with acidic ingredients to produce carbon dioxide bubbles, which help baked goods rise and become light and fluffy.
• Quantity: 1 part. For example, if making 1 teaspoon of baking powder, use 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda.
• Source: Easily available at grocery stores in the baking aisle.

Cream of Tartar (Potassium Bitartrate)

• Purpose: Cream of tartar is an acidic ingredient that activates the baking soda. It stabilizes the chemical reaction necessary for leavening.
• Quantity: 2 parts. For example, if making 1 teaspoon of baking powder, use 1/2 teaspoons cream of tartar.
• Source: Found in the spice section of grocery stores.

Cornstarch or Arrowroot Powder

• Purpose: Cornstarch (or arrowroot powder) absorbs moisture and prevents the baking soda and cream of tartar from reacting prematurely. It helps keep the homemade baking powder dry and ensures a longer shelf life.
• Quantity: 1 part. For example, if making 1 teaspoon of baking powder, use 1/4 teaspoon of cornstarch.
• Source: Available in the baking aisle of most grocery stores.  Look for non-gmo cornstarch if possible.

Supplies Needed for Making Baking Powder

• Measuring spoons
• Airtight container
• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk or spoon

Instructions for Making your Own Baking Powder

​I usually keep about 1/4 of a cup of baking powder on hand for baking to ensure it is as fresh as possible.  So for the purpose of this blog we will be making roughly 1/4 of a cup. If you do not need this much feel free to half or third this recipe.  See the instructions towards the top of the blog if you want to just make enough for a specific recipe.

Measure the Baking Soda

Use a measuring spoon to measure 1 tablespoon of baking soda. 

Measure the Cream of Tartar

Gather 2 tablespoons of cream of tartar.

Measure the Cornstarch

Measure 1 tablespoon of cornstarch or arrowroot powder.

Combine the Ingredients

Add the baking soda, cream of tartar, and cornstarch to a small mixing bowl.

Mix Thoroughly

Use a whisk or spoon to thoroughly mix the ingredients together. Ensure the mixture is even and free of lumps. The goal is to create a homogeneous powder.

Store the Baking Powder

Transfer the homemade baking powder to an airtight container. Use a funnel or spoon to avoid spills and ensure all the powder makes it into the container. Label the container with “Homemade Baking Powder” and the date it was made. This will help you keep track of its freshness. Keep the container in a cool, dry place at room temperature.

Use as Needed

Use your homemade baking powder as a 1:1 substitute for commercial baking powder in recipes. If you want to make a larger batch just double or triple this recipe.

Why Homemade Baking Powder Works

Baking powder is a leavening agent that combines an alkaline ingredient (baking soda) with an acidic ingredient (cream of tartar). When mixed with a liquid, these ingredients undergo a chemical reaction, producing carbon dioxide bubbles that help dough and batter rise. Cornstarch is added to absorb moisture and prevent the chemical reaction from occurring prematurely.

Tips for Best Results

Use Fresh Ingredients

Ensure that your baking soda and cream of tartar are fresh for the best results. Old baking powder or expired ingredients can lead to poor rising.

Make Small Batches

Since homemade baking powder doesn’t contain preservatives, it’s best to make small batches that you can use within a few weeks.

Test Your Baking Powder

To check if your homemade baking powder is still effective, mix 1/2 teaspoon with 1/4 cup of hot water. If it bubbles vigorously, it’s good to use.

Substitute in Recipes

Use homemade baking powder as a 1:1 substitute for commercial baking powders in recipes. For example, if a recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of baking powder, use 1 teaspoon of your homemade version.

Common Uses for Homemade Baking Powder

Quick Breads

Perfect for banana bread, zucchini bread, or any other quick bread recipe.

Pancakes and Waffles

Ensures your breakfast favorites are fluffy and light.

Biscuits and Scones

Helps achieve the perfect rise and texture.

Cakes and Cookies

Essential for many baked goods to rise properly and have a light texture.

Benefits of Homemade Baking Powder

No Additives

Commercial baking powders often contain aluminum-based compounds like sodium aluminum sulfate, which can leave a metallic taste. Homemade baking powder is free from these additives.

Customizable

You can make as much or as little as you need, ensuring it’s always fresh.

Cost-Effective

Making your own baking powder can save money, especially if you bake frequently.

Conclusion

Making homemade baking powder is a simple, cost-effective way to ensure you always have this essential leavening agent on hand. With just a few common ingredients like baking soda, cream of tartar, and cornstarch, you can create a fresh and effective baking powder that’s free from unwanted additives. Store it properly, use it in your favorite recipes, and enjoy the benefits of homemade goodness. Happy baking!

Sharing is caring!