Baking powder is an essential leavening agent used in baked goods like cakes, muffins, biscuits, and more. It helps batters rise properly so you get light and fluffy baked treats. Choosing the right baking powder can make all the difference in your baking success.
There are a few key things to consider when selecting a baking powder:
- Type - Single or double-acting baking powder
- Freshness - Look at the expiration date on the container
- Additives - Some have additional ingredients like cornstarch added
- Flavor - Some baking powders are neutral while others add a tangy flavor
Let's explore the different types of baking powders, what to look for when buying them, and how to store them properly. We've also answered some common questions people have about baking powder.
By the end, you'll know what to look for when purchasing baking powder so you can bake perfect cakes, cookies, and more every time!
Rumford Baking Powder
You'll be delighted with the Rumford Baking Powder for all your baking needs. This double-acting baking powder provides excellent rising power and leaves no bitter metallic aftertaste. It's the ideal leavening agent for fluffy pancakes, soft bread, and melt-in-your-mouth cookies.
Unlike other brands, Rumford contains no added aluminum which can add an unpleasant flavor. It's also non-GMO verified and gluten-free making it a smart choice if you have dietary restrictions.
When using this baking powder, you'll notice fizzing as soon as the wet and dry ingredients are combined indicating it's actively working to make your baked goods rise. Follow recipe instructions carefully when measuring out the Rumford. Too much can cause cakes and quick breads to dome or muffin tops to peak unattractively.
Key features:
- No metallic aftertaste
- Gluten-free and Non-GMO
- Provides excellent rising power
What We Like:
- Leaves no bitter flavor
- Good for restricted diets
- Reliable rising action
Bob's Red Mill Baking Powder
Discover the wonders of aluminum-free baking with Bob's Red Mill Baking Powder. This double-acting leavening agent gives your baked goods a perfect rise without adding a metallic taste. It's an ideal choice for biscuits, muffins, cakes and more.
You'll appreciate how this vegan and gluten-free formula caters to special diets. There's no need to worry about ingredients that can cause unpleasant reactions. The Bob's Red Mill powder simply does its job to make your treats light and fluffy.
Follow package directions closely when measuring it out. Overuse can lead to unsightly peaking or doming. Underuse may result in too little rise and dense texture. When used correctly, it helps baked items like bread and pancakes develop just the right airy quality.
Key features:
- Vegan and gluten-free
- No metallic aftertaste
- Gives perfect rise
What We Like:
- Great for special diets
- Pleasant flavor
- Reliable leavening
Davis Double Acting Baking Powder
You can trust Davis Baking Powder to make your cakes, cookies, and muffins perfectly rise. This double-acting formula helps baked goods achieve just the lift they need for light, tender texture. It's an excellent leavening agent for all your recipes.
What sets Davis apart from cheaper brands is it contains no added aluminum that can add an unpleasant metallic taste. You also don't have to worry about potential health effects from this ingredient.
When using Davis, take care to accurately measure according to recipe instructions. Too much can lead to unsightly peaking or doming of your baked treats. Too little may create inadequate rise and dense texture. The proper amount gives your goodies just the right airy quality.
Key features:
- No metallic aftertaste
- Reliable lift
- Light, fluffy texture
What We Like:
- Pleasant flavor
- No aluminum
- Quality rising action
Gefen Baking Powder
Gefen Baking Powder is a premium baking powder that works great in all your cooking and baking recipes. Try it and enjoy light and fluffy baked goods!
This aluminum-free baking powder contains no harsh additives, only potato starch, sodium bicarbonate, and sodium pyrophosphate. It's a high-quality leavening agent.
Key features:
- Gluten-free, aluminum-free formula
- Crafted without cornstarch
- Certified Kosher
- Comes in a convenient 8 oz. resealable container
What We Like:
- Produces light, fluffy baked goods
- Contains no aluminum or other harsh additives
- Can be used in a variety of recipes
- Convenient resealable container
Argo Baking Powder
Discover a trusted baking powder brand that has been crafting quality leaveners for over 100 years. Argo Baking Powder delivers reliable results across all your favorite recipes for fluffy pancakes, soft breads, and more.
This aluminum-free double-acting baking powder is proudly made in the USA. It contains no artificial flavors or colors. The formula is both gluten-free and Kosher certified for versatility.
Key features:
- Trusted brand with 100+ years of experience
- Aluminum-free and gluten-free
- Double-acting formula for reliable results
- Convenient 12 oz size, pack of 2
What We Like:
- Produces high-rising baked goods
- No aluminum or artificial ingredients
- Works across diverse recipes
- Good value with multi-pack
Roots Circle Baking Powder
![Roots Circle Baking Powder | Gluten-Free All-Purpose Leavening Agent For Cooking and Baked Goods, Desserts, Breads, & Cake | Vegan & Kosher-Safe | 2lb [35oz] Airtight Bulk Container](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41Lv0nBt0-L._SL75_.jpg)
Achieve delightfully fluffy gluten-free baked goods with Roots Circle Baking Powder. This versatile Kosher and vegan-friendly leavener makes breads, cakes, cookies and more perfectly rise.
The 35 oz. bulk container provides an affordable value while keeping your baking powder fresh. There are no aluminum or cornstarch fillers, just clean ingredients for quality results.
Key features:
- Gluten-free, vegan and Kosher
- 35 oz bulk size for value
- No aluminum or fillers
- Single acting lift
What We Like:
- Fluffy gluten-free baking
- Affordable bulk container
- Versatile for all diets
- Freshness protected
Medley Hills Farm baking powder
Baking Powder by Medley Hills Farm is a premium double-acting baking powder that is aluminum-free.
It releases carbon dioxide when exposed to moisture and heat which helps baked goods rise.
This baking powder is all-natural and kosher. It can be used for a variety of baked goods like cakes, cookies, biscuits, and more.
Key Features:
- Aluminum-free
- Double acting
- All-natural
- Kosher
- Made in the USA
What We Like:
- Large 2 lb reusable container great for bulk baking
- No aluminum
- Works well for baking a variety of goods
OTTOS NATURALS Baking Powder
OTTOS NATURALS Grain Free Baking Powder is a unique baking powder free of grains and nightshades. It is safe for those with corn and potato sensitivities.
This grain-free baking powder contains no aluminum and is paleo-certified and non-GMO project-verified. It can be used as a direct substitute in recipes calling for regular baking powder.
OTTOS NATURALS baking powder makes fluffy baked goods while being inclusive of different diets.
Key Features:
- Grain-free
- Nightshade free
- Corn free
- Gluten-free
- Aluminum-free
What We Like:
- Allows broader recipe options for those with allergies
- Trusted paleo and non-GMO certifications
- Makes light baked goods
Hain Pure Foods Baking Powder
Hain Pure Foods Featherweight Baking Powder is a gluten-free baking powder option. It contains no sodium so it is useful for low sodium diets.
This featherweight baking powder can directly replace regular baking powder in recipes at a 1:1 ratio.
It works well for items like pancakes, quick bread, and more. Those looking to limit gluten or sodium can use this baking powder for home baking.
Key Features:
- Gluten-free
- No sodium
- No aluminum
What We Like:
- Helps reduce sodium intake
- Easy substitution for regular baking powder
- Trusted brand for specialty diets
365 by Whole Foods Market Baking Powder
365 by Whole Foods Market Aluminum Free Baking Powder makes light and fluffy baked goods. It contains no aluminum or artificial ingredients.
This baking powder is vegan and uses quality ingredients like cornstarch and baking soda.
It can be used for all kinds of homemade baked goods from cakes to cookies. 365 by Whole Foods Market offers an affordable aluminum-free baking option.
Key Features:
- Aluminum-free
- Vegan
- No artificial ingredients
What We Like:
- Trusted Whole Foods brand
- Low price point
- Works well for various baked goods
Baking Powder Buying Guide
When it comes to baking powder, you can't just grab any old container off the shelf. Choosing the right type and freshness is key for your baked goods to turn out just right. Here are the main factors to consider when selecting baking powder:
Type of Baking Powder
The first thing to look at is whether the baking powder is single-acting or double-acting.
Single-acting baking powders react with moisture immediately when liquid is added to the batter. Since the gas production starts right away, these should be baked right after mixing. Single-acting powders are good for quick bread and muffins that go directly into the oven after mixing.
Double-acting baking powders react in two phases. The first reaction occurs when liquid is added to the batter. The second reaction happens once the temperature increases during baking. This allows time for the batter to rest before baking without losing its leavening power. Double-acting powders are ideal for baked goods that require resting time like cakes.
So consider when you will be baking the item and how much resting time the batter requires when choosing between single and double-acting baking powder.
Freshness
Always check the expiration or best-by date on the baking powder container. Baking powder contains baking soda and cream of tartar that eventually lose their ability to produce gas for leavening.
Old baking powder may fail to leaven properly, resulting in dense baked goods. For best results, use baking powder before the expiration date and store it properly (see storage tips below).
If you're unsure how old your current container is, do a freshness test. Add 1 tsp baking powder to 1/3 cup hot water - it should fizz and bubble right away if still fresh.
Added Ingredients
Some baking powders include additional ingredients like:
- Cornstarch - Absorbs moisture and keeps the powder dry. It also prevents clumping.
- Calcium phosphate - Helps prolong the shelf life and freshness.
- Sodium aluminum sulfate - Helps stabilize the baking powder for consistent leavening action.
These extras don't affect the baking performance. It's a personal preference whether you want just a straightforward baking powder or one with added absorbers and stabilizers.
Flavor
Most baking powders have a neutral taste that won't affect the flavor of baked goods. However, some brands add a pinch of sodium aluminum sulfate which can give a slightly tangy or metallic flavor.
If you dislike any tangy aftertaste, look for baking powders advertised as neutral or aluminum-free. Or you can look for recipe-specific baking powders made just for cookies or cakes that keep the flavor subtle.
Price
Baking powder is generally affordable, ranging from $3-6 for a typical 8-12 oz container. Aluminum-free baking powders tend to cost a little more.
You can find bargains on larger containers for frequent bakers. Just be sure to store it air-tight in a cool, dry spot since the larger quantities will take longer to use up.
Organic baking powders will also be pricier than conventional counterparts. There's no difference in performance so choose regular baking powder to save money.
Packaging
Baking powder is sensitive to moisture so the packaging needs to protect it.
The best options are:
- Metal cans with tight-fitting lids
- Plastic tubs or bottles with sealed lids
- Foil packets that reseal completely after opening
Avoid boxes or bags that allow air exchange. They can shorten the shelf life. Baking powders in these packaging may need to be stored in the refrigerator or freezer to extend freshness.
Quantity to Buy
Because baking powder has a shelf life of 12-18 months, it's best to buy a small container if you only bake occasionally. An 8-12 oz tub or bottle is plenty for the average home baker.
Those who bake more frequently can opt for a 1-2 lb package for value. Transfer some into a smaller sealed container for everyday use and store the remainder in an airtight container in the pantry.
For commercial or bulk quantities, look for 5 lb+ packages online or at restaurant supply stores.
Storing Baking Powder
To get the most out of your baking powder always store it properly in cool, dry conditions.
Here are some tips:
- Keep baking powder in original airtight packaging or tightly sealed jars/containers.
- Store in a pantry or cupboard away from excess moisture and heat.
- Avoid storing baking powder above the oven, on the refrigerator top, or next to the sink where it can get humid.
- Once opened, try to use it up within 6 months for the best freshness.
- Write the purchase or open date on the container so you remember when to replace it.
- For longer storage, keep baking powder in the fridge or freezer. It will last around 2 years frozen.
- If storing for over a year, it's best to divide it into smaller airtight containers to avoid repeated openings.
Following these simple guidelines will maintain freshness and leavening power. Proper storage prevents baking powder from prematurely losing its potency or developing clumps.
FAQ
Q: What's the difference between baking powder and baking soda?
A: Baking soda is sodium bicarbonate. It needs an acid and moisture to cause the chemical leavening reaction. Baking powder contains baking soda plus the acid component (cream of tartar) and drying agent already combined. The reaction happens automatically when liquid is added.
Q: Can baking powder go bad or expire?
A: Yes, baking powder has a shelf life of around 12-18 months. Over time, the chemical leaveners become less potent. Old baking powder may not cause enough rising action. Always check the expiration date and do the freshness test if in doubt.
Q: Why did my baking powder bread/cake fail to rise properly?
A: If a baked good fails to rise, it's likely because the baking powder is old. The leavening power diminishes over time. A sunk cake or flat biscuit typically means the baking powder lost its potency and needs to be replaced.
Q: How can I test if baking powder is still good?
A: To test freshness, stir 1 teaspoon baking powder into 1/3 cup hot water. It should immediately fizz and bubble vigorously. If it only foams a little or doesn't react, the baking powder is past its prime and needs replacing.
Q: Can I make my own baking powder?
A: You can make basic baking powder by mixing 2 parts cream of tartar with 1 part baking soda. However, commercial powders also include corn starch and other stabilizers for optimal performance. It's tricky to get the right ratios at home.
Q: What’s the best substitute for baking powder?
A: For every 1 teaspoon of baking powder, use 1/2 teaspoon of cream of tartar plus 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda. Be sure to mix thoroughly as baking soda clumps easily. You can also use double-acting baking powder; just reduce other liquids by 1-2 tablespoons to account for moisture in the powder.
Q: How long does an open container of baking powder last?
A: In a cool, dry place an opened container will stay fresh for 6 months optimally. For a maximum shelf life of up to 1 year, refrigerate or freeze opened baking powder. Always give it a quick freshness test before use if it's been stored for a while.
Q: Why do some baking powders contain aluminum?
A: A small amount of sodium aluminum sulfate is added to some baking powders as a buffering agent. It helps stabilize the pH for a more consistent, longer-lasting leavening action. The quantity is minimal and doesn't cause any health concerns. But it can add a slightly metallic tang.
Conclusion
With so many options on the market, it can get confusing to choose a baking powder for your cookies, cakes, and quick breads. By understanding the differences between single and double acting as well as considering freshness, taste, and proper storage, you can easily select the right product. Test out a few quality brands to determine which performs best for your baking needs.
Be sure to always check expiration dates and store baking powder in a cool, dry spot for maximum freshness. If you notice any reduced rising power, it's time to replace the old container. With the proper leavening agent, you'll be whipping up tasty home-baked treats in no time.
Resources
- Baking Tips: How To Get Good Results Every Time (onceuponachef.com): This article from Once Upon a Chef provides tips for baking success, including information on the differences between baking powder and baking soda and when to use each one.
- Top 10 Tips to Improve Your Baking (mikebakesnyc.com): This article from MikeBakesNYC offers tips for improving your baking skills, including advice on how to test the potency of your baking soda.
- Baking Powder vs. Baking Soda? (stayglutenfree.com): This article from Stay Gluten-Free explains the differences between baking powder and baking soda and why they should not be used interchangeably.
- Baking Soda: The Smart Prepper's Secret Problem Solver (theprovidentprepper.org): This article from The Provident Prepper explains the differences between baking soda and baking powder and offers tips for storing and using baking soda in emergency situations.