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Homemade Baking Powder

Out of baking powder? This quick 3-ingredient homemade version is ready in minutes—no additives, no store runs, just a simple pantry staple.
Total Time:5 minutes

Equipment

  • small bowl
  • fine mesh strainer
  • tablespoon
  • small jar or container

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp cream of tartar (substitutions in notes)
  • 1 tbsp baking soda
  • 1 tbsp arrowroot powder (or cornstarch)

Instructions

  1. Sift all ingredients through a fine mesh strainer into a small bowl.
  2. Whisk well until evenly mixed.
  3. Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for future use.

Notes

Need more or less? Adjust as needed while keeping the 2:1:1 ratio for perfect results every time!
Test for Freshness: Drop a small amount into warm water. If it fizzes, it’s good to go.
Mix Well Before Using – Homemade baking powder can settle over time, so give it a quick whisk or shake before adding it to your recipe.
Bake Immediately – Since this is single-acting baking powder, it starts working as soon as it gets wet. Mix it in last and bake right away for the best rise.
No cream of tartar? Swap it with an acidic ingredient like lemon juice, vinegar, buttermilk, or plain yogurt.
Since these add liquid, you may need to slightly reduce the liquids in your recipe to keep the right consistency.
  • Lemon Juice or Vinegar – Use 1 tsp per 1 tsp of cream of tartar.
  • Buttermilk, Sour Milk, or Plain Yogurt – Use 1 cup per 1 tsp of cream of tartar.
How to Make Sour Milk – Add 1 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of pasteurized or raw milk and let sit for 10–15 minutes.