Baking Soda and Cream of Tartar:
Create your own baking powder substitute by mixing 1 part baking soda with 2 parts cream of tartar. This combination mimics the leavening action of baking powder and works well in most recipes.
Yogurt or Buttermilk:
Acidic ingredients like yogurt or buttermilk can activate baking soda, providing a leavening effect similar to baking powder. Use 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda for every 1 cup of yogurt or buttermilk in your recipe.
Vinegar:
White vinegar or apple cider vinegar can also react with baking soda to produce carbon dioxide, which helps baked goods rise. Add 1 teaspoon of vinegar to your recipe for every 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda used.
Lemon Juice:
Like vinegar, lemon juice contains acid that can activate baking soda. Use 1 teaspoon of lemon juice for every 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda in your recipe.
Club Soda:
The carbonation in club soda can act as a leavening agent, helping baked goods rise. Substitute an equal amount of club soda for the amount of baking powder called for in your recipe.
Whipped Egg Whites:
Beating egg whites until stiff peaks form and then folding them into your batter can provide lift and structure to baked goods. Use 2 whipped egg whites for every 1 teaspoon of baking powder in your recipe.
Self-Rising Flour:
If you have self-rising flour on hand, you can omit the baking powder called for in your recipe. Self-rising flour already contains baking powder, so adjust the other ingredients accordingly.
Molasses:
Adding molasses to your recipe can provide sweetness and help baked goods rise. Use 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda for every 1/4 cup of molasses used.
Ammonium Carbonate:
Also known as baker's ammonia, this traditional leavening agent can be used as a substitute for baking powder. Use 1/4 teaspoon of ammonium carbonate for every 1 teaspoon of baking powder called for in your recipe.