Can I make a cake without baking powder?
Yes. Start with Baking Soda + Cream of Tartar at 1/4 tsp baking soda + 1/2 tsp cream of tartar per 1 tsp baking powder. This is essentially homemade baking powder. Single-acting only.
Best Baking Powder Substitutes for Cakes
Pick substitutes that preserve tenderness, aeration, and even rise in cake batters. Cake structure depends on balanced fat, sugar, and hydration. Wrong swaps can create a dense or dry crumb.
Reviewed by CupOrGram Editorial TeamData methodology: NIST-derived density references + recipe testing notesMethodology
Can I make a cake without baking powder?
Yes. Start with Baking Soda + Cream of Tartar at 1/4 tsp baking soda + 1/2 tsp cream of tartar per 1 tsp baking powder, then adjust liquid or bake time in small steps after a test batch.
Top Recommendation
Baking Soda + Cream of Tartar
Use 1/4 tsp baking soda + 1/2 tsp cream of tartar per 1 tsp baking powder
This is essentially homemade baking powder. Single-acting only.
See full adjustment notes →Search Questions This Page Answers
What can I use instead of baking powder for cake?
Start with Baking Soda + Cream of Tartar (1/4 tsp baking soda + 1/2 tsp cream of tartar per 1 tsp baking powder) for the closest match.
Best baking powder substitute for cake?
Baking Soda + Cream of Tartar is the top pick here. Use 1/4 tsp baking soda + 1/2 tsp cream of tartar per 1 tsp baking powder and adjust only after a test bake.
How do I substitute baking powder in cake batter?
Replace using 1/4 tsp baking soda + 1/2 tsp cream of tartar per 1 tsp baking powder, mix as usual, then tune liquid and bake time in small steps if needed.