Best Baking Powder Substitutes for Muffins & Quick Breads

Use forgiving substitutions that still maintain moisture and lift in quick batters. Quick breads tolerate swaps better, but leavening and hydration still need balance to avoid gummy centers.

Reviewed by the CupOrGram Editorial TeamSources: King Arthur Baking, USDA FoodData CentralMethodology

Can I make muffins or quick bread 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.

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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.

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How much does 1 cup of baking powder weigh?

On CupOrGram, 1 cup of baking powder is treated as 184 grams. Use the conversion page if you want the original ingredient weight before choosing a substitute.

Baking Powder cups to grams →

Common Questions for Muffins & Quick Breads

Best baking powder substitute for muffins?

Baking Soda + Cream of Tartar, used 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.

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