Updated 30 July 2026 · Written by Sofia Romano
To replace 1 teaspoon of baking powder, mix 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda with 1/2 teaspoon of cream of tartar. If you have no cream of tartar, use 1/4 teaspoon baking soda plus 1/2 cup of an acidic liquid like buttermilk or yogurt, reducing other liquid in the recipe to match.
1 tsp baking powder = 1/4 tsp baking soda + 1/2 tsp cream of tartar. Or baking soda plus an acidic liquid.
The Simple Swap
Baking powder is just baking soda combined with a dry acid, so you can recreate it. For each teaspoon of baking powder, combine a quarter teaspoon of baking soda with half a teaspoon of cream of tartar, and use it right away since it activates on contact with liquid.
If You Have No Cream of Tartar
Use a quarter teaspoon of baking soda per teaspoon of powder, and supply the acid with an ingredient already in the recipe, such as buttermilk, yogurt or lemon juice, adjusting the other liquids. Learn how the two leaveners differ in baking soda vs baking powder. Measure precisely with accurate measuring spoons.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make baking powder from baking soda?
Mix 1/4 teaspoon baking soda with 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar for each teaspoon of baking powder needed, and use it immediately.
Can I use baking soda instead of baking powder?
Only with added acid. Baking soda alone is much stronger and needs an acidic ingredient to work, so it is not a direct one-to-one swap.
