Baking Soda vs Baking Powder

What’s the Difference & When to Use Each

If you have ever looked at a recipe and wondered if you should use baking soda or baking powder, you are not alone!   

These two pantry staples may look similar, but they play crucially different roles in baking.   

Understanding the difference can mean the success or failure of your cakes, cookies, and breads.

Baking Soda: The Powerful Leavening Agent

Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, is a pure alkaline compound. It needs an acidic ingredient to work.

Examples of acidic ingredients include lemon juice, yogurt, buttermilk, or vinegar.   

When mixed with acid, it produces carbon dioxide bubbles, causing your batter to rise quickly.

✅ Best for: Recipes with natural acids (e.g., pancakes, banana bread, chocolate cake).

⚠️ Watch out!   Too much baking soda can leave a bitter, soapy taste.

Baking Powder: The Convenient All-in-One Solution

Baking powder contains baking soda plus an acid (usually cream of tartar) and a stabilizer (like cornstarch).   

Because it’s pre-mixed, it activates twice—first when wet, then again when heated.

✅ Best for: Recipes without acidic ingredients (e.g., biscuits, muffins, vanilla cake).

Pro Tip: Check if your baking powder is single-acting or double-acting. Single-acting works right away.

Double-acting reacts again in the oven.

Can You Substitute One for the Other?

Sometimes—but with caution!

No baking powder?   Mix 1/4 tsp baking soda + 1/2 tsp cream of tartar (per 1 tsp baking powder).

No baking soda?   Use 3x more baking powder, but expect a slightly different texture.

The Secret to Perfect Baking?   Use the Right One!

Whether you’re whipping up fluffy pancakes or chewy cookies, choosing the correct leavening agent makes all the difference.

Stock up on high-quality baking soda & baking powder to ensure your baked goods rise to perfection every time!

Shop now and elevate your baking game with premium ingredients!

Need baking essentials?   Visit our store for the freshest baking soda and baking powder—because great bakes start with the

right ingredients!   ✨