How to Make Homemade Baking Powder (No Fillers or Additives)
As backyard homesteaders, Daniel and I are always looking for ways to be more self-sufficient and buy less at the store. Homemade pantry staples have become a huge part of our daily life, and one of the easiest—and most overlooked—is Homemade Baking Powder.
If you bake regularly, you’ve likely run out of baking powder at the worst possible time. The good news? Making your own takes just seconds, costs pennies, and lets you skip the anti-caking agents and additives found in store-bought versions.
What Is Baking Powder Used For?
Baking powder is a leavening agent, meaning it helps baked goods rise. You’ll find it in recipes for:
It’s a must-have for fluffy, tender results in anything that doesn’t call for yeast.
Why Make Baking Powder at Home?
Making your own baking powder has several benefits:
- Cleaner ingredients: No aluminum or fillers
- Cost-effective: Uses pantry staples you already have
- Customizable: Leave out the cornstarch if you prefer
- Saves trips to the store: Make it when you need it
As someone who wants to know exactly what’s in the food I make, this recipe is a no-brainer.
Homemade Baking Powder Recipe
Prep Time: 2 minutes
Yields: About 8 tablespoons
Ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons cream of tartar
- 2 tablespoons baking soda
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional)
Directions
- Combine all ingredients in a small bowl.
- Mix thoroughly until fully combined.
- Transfer to an airtight container.
- Store in a cool, dry place for up to 2 months.
Storage Tips
- Keep it dry: Moisture causes clumping and can make it lose effectiveness.
- Skip the freezer: Freezing adds moisture, which defeats the purpose.
- Use cornstarch if storing long term: If you’re not using the mix within a week or two, adding cornstarch helps prevent caking.
Usage Notes
- Use this homemade baking powder just like the store-bought version.
- No adjustments needed—if the recipe calls for 1 teaspoon, use 1 teaspoon.
- Always check freshness if it’s been sitting for a while. If it doesn’t fizz when mixed with water, it’s time to make a fresh batch.
How do you convert baking soda to baking powder?
As you know baking powder is made of baking soda and cream of tarter. Did you know that baking powder can be substituted for baking soda by tripling the amount of baking powder.
A Step Toward More Independence
Homesteading isn’t about doing everything from scratch every day—it’s about making intentional choices. Replacing one more store-bought item with something homemade gets you a little closer to knowing what’s in your food and saving money while doing it.
Whether you live on an acreage or in a neighborhood backyard, this is one of those small wins that makes a big difference.
Want more simple homemade pantry staples like this one? Be sure to sign up for The Oklahoma Homesteader newsletter and get recipes, tips, and encouragement from our homestead to yours.
Homemade Baking Powder
Quick and easy way to make homemade baking powder when you run out.
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons cream of tartar
- 2 tablespoons baking soda
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional)
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a small bowl.
- Mix thoroughly until fully combined.
- Transfer to an airtight container.
- Store in a cool, dry place for up to 2 months.
Nutrition Information
Yield 8 Serving Size 1Amount Per Serving Calories 31Sodium 981mgCarbohydrates 8gFiber 0gProtein 0g
Nutrition information is calculated using an ingredient database and should be considered an estimate. In cases where multiple ingredient alternatives are given, the first listed is calculated for nutrition. Garnishes and optional ingredients are not included.
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