Best Cream of Tartar 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 cream of tartar?

Yes. Start with Baking Powder at Use 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder for 1 teaspoon cream of tartar plus 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, then adjust liquid or bake time in small steps after a test batch.

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Baking Powder

Use Use 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder for 1 teaspoon cream of tartar plus 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

Useful when cream of tartar is paired with baking soda.

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How much does 1 cup of cream of tartar weigh?

On CupOrGram, 1 cup of cream of tartar is treated as 162 grams. Use the conversion page if you want the original ingredient weight before choosing a substitute.

Cream of Tartar cups to grams →

Alternative Options for Muffins & Quick Breads

Common Questions for Muffins & Quick Breads

Best cream of tartar substitute for muffins?

Baking Powder, used at Use 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder for 1 teaspoon cream of tartar plus 1/2 teaspoon baking soda. Useful when cream of tartar is paired with baking soda.

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