Baking soda is a popular leavening agent used in many baking recipes to make the batter or dough rise. It functions by producing carbon dioxide when combined with an acidic substance, such as vinegar or yogurt. In some cases, baking soda can be substituted with other leavening agents. One common substitute is baking powder, which already contains both baking soda and an acidic component.
Another alternative is active dry yeast, especially in bread baking, though it requires more time for the dough to rise. Other substitutes include potassium bicarbonate and salt. However, it’s important to keep in mind that using a different leavening agent may alter the flavor and texture of the final product. It’s also critical to use the appropriate amount, as an incorrect amount can lead to a failed recipe.
How To Substitute Baking Soda
| Baking Soda Substitute | Typical Ratio for 1 Teaspoon Baking Soda | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Baking Powder | 4 teaspoons baking powder | Baking powder is a combination of baking soda and acid, and can be used as a replacement for baking soda in recipes that also contain an acid. |
| Club Soda | 1/4 cup club soda | Club soda contains carbon dioxide and can be used as a replacement for baking soda in recipes that need to rise, such as pancakes or waffles. |
| Baker’s Ammonia | 1/4 teaspoon baker’s ammonia per 1 teaspoon baking soda | Baker’s ammonia, also known as ammonium bicarbonate, is a strong leavening agent that is commonly used in traditional German baked goods. It has a strong odor and is not commonly found in grocery stores. |
| Self-Rising Flour | Use self-rising flour as a 1:1 replacement for all-purpose flour | Self-rising flour contains baking powder and salt, and can be used as a replacement for both all-purpose flour and baking soda in recipes that require both ingredients. |
| Potassium Bicarbonate and Salt | 1/4 teaspoon potassium bicarbonate + 1/4 teaspoon salt per 1 teaspoon baking soda | Potassium bicarbonate is a type of leavening agent that is similar to baking soda, and is often used in gluten-free baking. It can be found in specialty health food stores. |
| Whipped Egg Whites | 2 whipped egg whites per 1 teaspoon baking soda | Whipped egg whites can be used as a leavening agent in some baked goods, such as meringues or angel food cake. They will not provide the same texture as baking soda, so it is important to consider the recipe and desired outcome before using this substitute. |
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