Best Baking Soda Substitutes for Pancakes & Waffles

Choose alternatives that hold batter consistency and help keep a light interior. These batters are sensitive to liquid ratios and acidity, both of which affect fluffiness and browning.

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

Can I make pancakes or waffles without baking soda?

Yes. Start with Baking Powder at Use 3x the amount of baking powder (1 tsp soda = 1 tbsp powder), then adjust liquid or bake time in small steps after a test batch.

Top Recommendation

Baking Powder

Use Use 3x the amount of baking powder (1 tsp soda = 1 tbsp powder)

Won't create the same browning. May need to remove other acids from recipe.

View full adjustment notes →

How much does 1 cup of baking soda weigh?

On CupOrGram, 1 cup of baking soda is treated as 216 grams. Use the conversion page if you want the original ingredient weight before choosing a substitute.

Baking Soda cups to grams →

Common Questions for Pancakes & Waffles

Can I make pancakes or waffles without baking soda?

Yes. Start with Baking Powder at Use 3x the amount of baking powder (1 tsp soda = 1 tbsp powder). Won't create the same browning. May need to remove other acids from recipe.

What can I use instead of baking soda for pancakes?

Start with Baking Powder (Use 3x the amount of baking powder (1 tsp soda = 1 tbsp powder)) for the closest match.

Best baking soda substitute for pancakes?

Baking Powder is the top pick here. Use Use 3x the amount of baking powder (1 tsp soda = 1 tbsp powder) and adjust only after a test bake.

How do I substitute baking soda in pancake and waffle batter?

Replace using Use 3x the amount of baking powder (1 tsp soda = 1 tbsp powder), mix as usual, then tune liquid and bake time in small steps if needed.

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