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Homemade Baking Powder Recipe (Only 3 Ingredients)

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Did you know you can whip up a Homemade Baking Powder Recipe using just a few pantry staples? If you’ve ever run out of baking powder mid-recipe or you’re looking for a cleaner, aluminum-free option, this simple DIY solution is exactly what you need. Whether you’re baking from scratch often or just trying to avoid unnecessary additives, this is a handy kitchen hack to have up your sleeve.

This Homemade Baking Powder Recipe is a lifesaver when you’re in a pinch, and it’s surprisingly easy to make. With just two or three ingredients, you can create a DIY baking powder that works just as well as the store-bought kind. Plus, you can make a small amount to use immediately or prep a larger batch to store for later.

Looking for easy dinners? Try my Lemon Garlic Chicken Penne Pasta Recipe, Easy Mac & Cheese Recipe, or this Simple Turkey Meatloaf Recipe

A small glass bowl filled with baking powder sits on a wooden surface. Flour is spilled around it, with a wooden spoon resting nearby, conveying a rustic baking scene.

Why Make Your Own Baking Powder?

  • Only 2–3 ingredients – Most likely already in your pantry!
  • Aluminum-free – A cleaner option compared to commercial baking powders.
  • Perfect for emergency situations – No more running to the store mid-recipe!

Recipe Ingredients

You’ll need the following ingredients to make this Homemade Baking Powder Recipe:

Open jars of cornstarch, cream of tartar, and baking soda with small mounds of each on a wooden surface. A silver measuring spoon lies nearby.

Ingredient Notes

Baking soda is usually sold in bulk at warehouse stores or in the baking aisle. Cream of tartar is often found in the spice section, and Cornstarch or Arrowroot can be found in the baking or gluten-free aisle.

Equipment Needed

  • Airtight Container (Mason Jar works great)
  • Spoon
  • Measuring Spoon

How to Make Homemade Baking Powder Recipe Step-by-Step

Here are quick visual instructions for making a Homemade Baking Powder Recipe step-by-step. Remember, the full instructions will be in the printable recipe card below.

Step 1: Mix the ingredients, baking soda, cream of tartar, and cornstarch, and combine well.

Step 2: Store immediately in an airtight container.

Pro Tip: Label the container with the date you made it so you know when it’s time to refresh the batch. Making baking powder in advance means you will always have it on hand, which is especially helpful if you bake frequently or like to prep your pantry with homemade staples.

Freshness Test Tip

Are you still not sure if your homemade baking powder is active? Here’s an easy way to test its freshness:

  1. Add ½ teaspoon of baking powder to ¼ cup of warm water.
  2. If it bubbles and fizzes immediately, it’s still good to use.
  3. If there’s little to no reaction, it’s time to make a fresh batch.

This simple fizz test is especially helpful if you’ve made a large batch and stored it for several weeks. Always store your DIY baking powder in a dry, airtight container and away from heat and moisture for the best results.

Recipe Tips & Tricks

  • For immediate use, skip the cornstarch.
  • Add arrowroot powder instead of cornstarch products if you’re avoiding corn.
  • Whisk ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution.

Make-Ahead Tip

Want to save even more time in the kitchen? You can make a larger batch of homemade baking powder ahead of time and store it for future use. Just be sure to include cornstarch or arrowroot powder in your mix to help absorb moisture and keep it fresh.
Store your DIY baking powder in a clean, airtight glass jar or spice container in a cool, dry place like your pantry or spice rack. It will stay fresh for up to 4 to 6 weeks.

Storage

To ensure freshness, store your DIY baking powder in an airtight container in a cool, dry place like a pantry or spice cabinet. Keep it away from moisture and heat, which can cause it to clump or lose its potency.

If stored properly with cornstarch or arrowroot, it will stay fresh for up to 4–6 weeks. For the freshest results, consider making smaller batches more frequently.

Additions & Substitutions

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make baking powder without cornstarch?

Absolutely. Cornstarch helps prevent clumping if you plan to store it. If you’re using your mix right away, leave it out.

Is homemade baking powder gluten-free?

Yes, when using pure baking soda, cream of tartar, and either cornstarch or arrowroot, your homemade mix is naturally gluten-free. Always check your ingredient labels to ensure no cross-contamination.

Why does homemade baking powder clump?

Moisture is usually the culprit. Always store your DIY baking powder in a dry, airtight container. Adding cornstarch or arrowroot helps prevent clumping.

Can you make homemade baking powder without cream of tartar?

Cream of tartar is the key acidic component in homemade baking powder. If you don’t have it, you can try using another acid, like lemon juice or vinegar with baking soda, but only in recipes where liquid acid can be added directly.

Looking for Delicious breakfast recipes?

Grab your 5 breakfast recipes now!

Cover of a breakfast recipe booklet with syrup-drenched pancakes and the text "5 of the Best Breakfast Recipes." Warm, inviting tone.

So, next time you’re baking up something sweet or savory, skip the store and make your own! This homemade baking powder recipe is easy, budget-friendly, and completely customizable to your needs.

A wooden spoon in a glass jar filled with white baking soda or flour on a wooden surface. A metal measuring spoon lies beside it, with scattered powder around.

More Recipes You’ll Love

I hope you love the Homemade Baking Powder Recipe. If you make it, please be sure to leave a comment and a rating, so I know how you like it. Enjoy, Xo

A small glass bowl filled with baking powder sits on a wooden surface. Flour is spilled around it, with a wooden spoon resting nearby, conveying a rustic baking scene.

Homemade Baking Powder Recipe

Yield: 1 tablespoon
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes

This Homemade Baking Powder Recipe is a lifesaver when you're in a pinch,
and it’s surprisingly easy to make. With just two or three ingredients, you can
create a DIY baking powder that works just as well as the store-bought kind.
Plus, you can make a small amount to use immediately or prep a larger batch to
store for later.

Ingredients

  • • 1 tsp baking soda
  • • 2 tsp cream of tartar
  • • 1 tsp cornstarch (optional for storage)

Instructions

Whisk all ingredients together until well combined. Store in a glass jar or an airtight container with a tight-fitting lid. Don’t forget to label and date your container!

Notes

Large Batch (Makes about 1 Cup):

  • ¼ cup baking soda
  • ½ cup cream of tartar
  • ¼ cup cornstarch (optional but recommended for storage)
  • Making baking powder in advance means you will always have it on hand, which
    It is especially helpful if you bake frequently or like to prep your pantry with
    homemade staples.

    Ingredient Notes

    Baking soda is usually sold in bulk at warehouse stores or in the baking
    aisle. Cream of tartar is often found in the spice section, and Cornstarch or
    Arrowroot can be found in the baking or gluten-free aisle.


    Additions

    • Arrowroot powder – A great alternative to cornstarch if you're looking for a grain-free or paleo-friendly option.
    • Dried lemon zest – Add a small pinch to give your baking powder a subtle citrus note, especially nice in light cake or muffin recipes.

    Substitutions

    • Arrowroot for Cornstarch – If you're avoiding corn, arrowroot powder is a perfect 1:1 substitute to keep your baking powder dry.
    • Skip the starch entirely – If you're using your baking powder immediately and not storing it, you can leave out the starch component completely.


    Freshness Test Tip

    Are you still not sure if your homemade baking powder is active? Here’s an easy way to test its freshness:

    1. Add ½ teaspoon of baking powder to ¼ cup of warm water.
    2. If it bubbles and fizzes immediately, it's still good to use.
    3. If there's little to no reaction, it's time to make a fresh batch.

      This simple fizz test is especially helpful if you’ve made a large batch and stored it for several weeks. Always store your DIY baking powder in a dry, airtight container and away from heat and moisture for the best results.

    Did you make this recipe? Follow me on Pinterest for more recipes & inspiration!

    Please leave a comment on the blog or share a photo on Pinterest

    Nutrition is only an estimate based on the Very Well Fit Nutrition Calculator.

    Have you ever tried making your own baking powder?

    Let me know how it worked for you in the comments below, or tag me on Instagram @LinenandWildflowers if you share it!

    4 Comments

    1. This is an interesting recipe. I had no idea we could make our own baking powder at home; it’s so easy. Thanks for the storage tips. I no longer bake alot, but I will be trying your recipe when baking call for baking powder.

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