Using Baker's Ammonia (Ammonium Carbonate) Instead of Baking Soda
Ratio
1:1 in thin, crisp cookies and crackers only
Moderate — noticeable differences, use with care
Recipe Adjustment Notes
Gives exceptional crispness and spread. The ammonia gas bakes off completely from thin doughs but lingers in thick cakes and muffins.
The Science Behind This Swap
Decomposes into ammonia and CO2 on heating with no acid needed — strong lift, but only safe where the bake is thin enough to vent.
Measurement Variance Note
For 1 cup references, this ingredient can vary by about 6% across brands and measuring methods (203g-229g per cup). For the most reliable substitution result, measure by weight and test a half batch first.
How Baker's Ammonia (Ammonium Carbonate) Compares for Baking Soda
Quality rating: moderate. Gives exceptional crispness and spread. The ammonia gas bakes off completely from thin doughs but lingers in thick cakes and muffins.