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 CupOrGram Editorial TeamData methodology: NIST-derived density references + recipe testing notesMethodology

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.

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.

View full adjustment notes →

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

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. This is essentially homemade baking powder. Single-acting only.

What can I use instead of baking powder for muffins?

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 muffins?

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 muffins and quick breads?

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.

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