Baking Powder Substitute

Have you ever found that you don't have enough of a simple ingredient right in the middle of mixing up your project?  I know...you are supposed to assemble all your ingredients FIRST to make sure you have everything.  If you do that, well, you are a far better person than I am!

Recently I ran out of baking powder while making up a batch of waffles.  So, what's a girl to do?  I ran to my computer!  (Thank goodness for Google!) 

I found this easy recipe and decided to share it with you.  I have heard about the possible health issues related to metals found in our foods, etc. and normal baking powder is on the list of culprits as many brands contain aluminum.  So, if you are wanting to purchase baking powder, just take a quick lookie to see if your brand does.  If so, in this case, change is good.

By the way, the leavening power of baking powder does diminish over time.  Normally baking powder will remain effective for about 2 years.  If you do have a supply that you are not sure if it will do the job, you can test its freshness:  Add 1/4 C hot water to 1 t baking powder you have placed in a glass or bowl.  If the baking powder is still good, it will bubble up.

Now, in case you have run out or have decided for whatever reason to make you own, here you go:

• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 teaspoons cream of tartar
• 1 teaspoon corn starch (optional)

Preparation:

Mix the baking soda and cream of tartar together until well combined. Use immediately.
Yield: One tablespoon of baking powder.

To store baking powder: Add a teaspoon of corn starch to the mixture, and stir. This will absorb any moisture from the air, and prevent the baking powder from reacting before you need it. Store in an air-tight container.