Comparing Baking Soda vs Baking Powder

Baking soda vs baking powder, which do you prefer? When learning to bake, it is important to understand that there is a big difference between baking soda and baking powder. Baking soda and baking powder are key ingredients in many recipes. But, they play different roles in the baking process.

Baking soda, better known as sodium bicarbonate, is commonly used in baking. Also, it is used for cleaning and deodorizing smells. It’s a leavening agent, which means it allows for doughs and batters to rise.

WHAT IS SODA?

USING BAKING SODA IN RECIPES — Not only is baking soda used in many dessert dishes, but most recipes for cookies, bread, and cakes also call for baking soda. OTHER USES OF BAKING SODA — Having baking soda around is not only handy for baking, but for other household remedies as well. It can be used for a wide array of health benefits such as treating heartburn. Also, for whitening teeth and as a deodorant.

Baking powder contains baking soda, as well as a cream of tartar and a drying agent such as a starch. In fact, most baking powders include two acids. Monocalcium phosphate is one of the acids found in baking powder. 

WHAT IS THIS POWDER?

Using Baking Powder in Recipes — Given that baking powder is often used in dishes such as waffles, pancakes, and cakes, it is used to lighten the texture and increase the volume of baked goods. SUBSTITUTING — You can get one teaspoon of baking powder by combining half a teaspoon of baking soda and a quarter teaspoon of tartar cream. If you don’t have a tartar cream, you can also use lemon juice or white vinegar.

If you plan on baking regularly, whether you’re an expert or beginner in baking, it is best to have both baking powder and baking soda in your pantry. There are many recipes that will call for baking powder and baking soda.

Comparing Baking Soda vs Baking Powder