Use 3 teaspoons (1 tablespoon) of baking powder for each 1 teaspoon of baking soda. Expect a slightly different flavor and texture, and possibly a faint bitter taste, because baking powder already contains its own acid.
Ratios from university extension services and King Arthur Baking. Checked .
Baking soda substitutes, best first
- For 1 tsp baking soda3 tsp (1 Tbsp) baking powderBest for: cookies, quick breads, pancakes
King Arthur and Arm & Hammer give 3:1; King Arthur warns that much powder can taste slightly bitter.
- For 1/2 tsp baking soda + 1 cup buttermilk1 cup sweet milk + 2 tsp more baking powderBest for: recipes using buttermilk with soda
Purdue's equivalence: sour milk with 1/2 tsp soda balances against 2 tsp baking powder.
What not to use
A 1:1 swap of baking powder for soda leaves baked goods flat, since soda is about 3-4 times stronger (Arm & Hammer). UC Cooperative Extension states there is no true substitute for baking soda.
Why the swaps work
Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate, pH about 8) is a base that makes carbon dioxide as soon as it meets an acid such as buttermilk, yogurt, brown sugar, or molasses. It also neutralizes acid and helps browning and spread.
Questions people ask
Why doesn't baking powder work 1:1 for baking soda?
Baking soda is roughly 3-4 times as strong as baking powder, so an equal amount gives too little lift.
Do I still need acid if I use baking powder instead?
No. Baking powder contains its own acid, so it works without buttermilk or another acidic ingredient.
What can I use instead of baking soda?
Use 3 teaspoons (1 tablespoon) of baking powder for each 1 teaspoon of baking soda. Expect a slightly different flavor and texture, and possibly a faint bitter taste, because baking powder already contains its own acid.
What can I substitute for baking soda?
Use 3 teaspoons (1 tablespoon) of baking powder for each 1 teaspoon of baking soda. Expect a slightly different flavor and texture, and possibly a faint bitter taste, because baking powder already contains its own acid.
What to use in place of baking soda?
Use 3 teaspoons (1 tablespoon) of baking powder for each 1 teaspoon of baking soda. Expect a slightly different flavor and texture, and possibly a faint bitter taste, because baking powder already contains its own acid.
What can I substitute for 1 teaspoon of baking soda?
Use 3 teaspoons (1 tablespoon) of baking powder for each 1 teaspoon of baking soda. Expect a slightly different flavor and texture, and possibly a faint bitter taste, because baking powder already contains its own acid.