When you know someone for as long as you’ve known my husband, you are sure to understand what makes them tick. You recognize when they’re hiding secrets and notice the subtle changes in their breathing. After fourteen years together, if I didn’t know the little things that made him the man I married, do I really love him? That’s why I could always tell when he was up to something suspicious. A slight change in his demeanor would concern me.
The first time I noticed a change in him was after four years together, before we were married. The change was subtle, and I could have missed it if I wasn’t attentive. He was still the loving and caring boyfriend I had always known, but something was different. I couldn’t pinpoint it. I didn’t see anything suspicious to direct me, so I remained silent until something happened one day.
He called me, sounding distressed. That’s one of the things that made me fall in love with him. William is an open book, not someone who hides his emotions. He was almost in tears when I asked him what was wrong. “I have been transferred from Accra to work in another region.” They didn’t give him enough time to prepare for the transfer, demanding he move as soon as possible. He was distraught about leaving his life here and moving to a new town.
I comforted him and promised to visit him the next day. When I got there, I found two used condoms in his room. I wasn’t even looking for them. I had just gone to offer my man some comfort. When I asked him about it, he didn’t lie. He admitted he had a girl over the previous night and they ended up having sex. My heart was shattered. You should see him. He doesn’t look like the kind of man who would cheat. The way he treats me, I was sure I was his world. That’s why it hurt so badly. The trust I had in him was broken. I cannot stand to share my man with another woman. So, I broke up with him there and then. He was a mess, and so was I. “Forgive me,” he begged, “If you give me one more chance, I won’t do anything like this again.” I thought about his apology but more about his betrayal. Then I shook my head and said, “No, I can’t forgive this.”
He involved both our families. They all told me, “Sometimes these things happen. He didn’t do well but his transfer has badly affected him. If you leave him now, he will be miserable. Find it in your heart to forgive him.” It took months before I finally let go of the hurt and got back together with him. Before I agreed to give him another chance, I asked for the other lady’s number, and he gave it to me. I called her and introduced myself as William’s woman.
As soon as she heard my name, she said, “Oh it’s so good to finally talk to you. I have heard so much about you. Your boyfriend and I are very good friends.” I was surprised she even knew about me. She told me many things she had heard about me, even where I worked. So I asked her, “If you knew all this, then why did you sleep with him?” All of a sudden, her tone changed. She got aggressive and denied everything. At the end of the conversation, she promised to keep her distance from him. Truly, I didn’t see any sign of her in his life after that. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>
In our sixth year together, we got married and started our lives together officially. William continued to be the amazing man I married until after I had our firstborn. All of a sudden, I sensed a change in him. It was subtle, but I knew him too well not to notice. One night I went through his phone and stumbled upon his WhatsApp chat with this same lady from our past. They were exchanging flirtatious messages. She initiated the conversation, asking if he hadn’t missed her after all these years. Then she followed up with a photo of her naked breasts. Instead of my husband shutting the conversation down, he indulged her. From the chat, I could tell they had met and done things to each other.
Things I didn’t expect him to do with another woman. I was shaking while the phone was still in my hand. At some point, I couldn’t see past the tears in my eyes. I confronted him about it, and he didn’t deny it. I told him, “I forgave you the last time but not this time. I am done.” I took our child to my aunt, packed some stuff, and went to live with a friend. I didn’t breathe a word of his adulterous ways to my family. One thing I learned is that if your partner hurts you and you tell your family, you may forgive them later, but your family may not. So, I reported him to his mother.
She is a marriage counsellor. I also have a good relationship with her, so it was easier to talk to her. She was just as disappointed as I was. She even took the other lady’s number and spoke to her. She asked the girl if there was anything binding her to my husband that after all these years, they wouldn’t let each other go. The girl said there was nothing. “Not even a child?” The lady said no. My mother-in-law advised her as she would a daughter. “No matter what you do, my son is married. So leave him and find your own man.” Although the lady agreed, I still wasn’t ready to return to the marriage.
My husband had to go to my best friend’s father, a man I highly respect, and asked him to talk to me. That was when I agreed to give him one last chance. Eight years of marriage and two kids later, I found out recently that my husband is still talking to this lady. I asked him, “What at all is it about this girl that you won’t let her go? You tell me you are done with her, only to turn around and go back to her.” Do you two have a child together? If that’s the case, it would make sense.” He couldn’t give me any answers. I feel so disrespected. I have noticed that the girl is not married.
That’s another one of my concerns. A single woman can go about sleeping with anyone and then sleep with my husband. If she gives him an STD, I am the innocent woman who will end up catching it. He is a selfless man. Our kids are crazy about him because he is a great dad. He is loving and everything good you could find in a partner. My only problem with him is his long-term affair with this side chick of his. The first time I caught them was ten years ago, yet she is still in the picture.
I know some women would say, if this is his only flaw, I should turn a blind eye, but I can’t share my man with anyone. So, I am preparing to inform his mother that my people will return their drinks soon. I am not looking for her to counsel me to reconsider my decision to leave him. Because of my relationship with her, I wouldn’t want her to find out about the dissolution of our marriage from my family first. In the meantime, I want to ask my fellow readers here, what would make a married man keep going back to the same side chick for ten years? That’s what I want to understand. He claims he doesn’t love her, but she is a constant problem in our marriage. Why risk everything you don’t want to lose for someone you say you don’t want?
Baking powder is a staple in many kitchens. It plays a crucial role in creating fluffy pancakes, light cakes, and airy muffins. However, there are times when you might find yourself without this essential ingredient. Don’t worry! There are several effective substitutes you can use to save the day. In this article, we’ll explore the 18 best baking powder substitutes. In addition, we will also discuss some useful insights, and tips, to enhance your baking experience.
What is Baking Powder?
Before we dive into the substitutes, let’s take a quick look at what baking powder is. Baking powder is a leavening agent that contains a combination of sodium bicarbonate (baking soda). This is an acidifying agent and a drying agent like cornstarch
When combined with moisture and heat, the chemical reaction between the baking soda and acid produces carbon dioxide bubbles. This can cause baked goods to rise and achieve that light, airy texture we all love.
Baking Powder Substitutes
18 Best Baking Powder Substitutes
1. Baking Soda and Cream of Tartar
Cream of tartar is an acidic byproduct of winemaking that helps stabilize whipped egg whites and prevent sugar crystallization. When combined with baking soda, it creates a chemical reaction that produces carbon dioxide gas, similar to baking powder.
This substitute works best in recipes that don’t already contain an acidic ingredient. Because the cream of tartar provides the necessary acidity.
How to Use
Substitution Ratio: For every 1 teaspoon of baking powder, use 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda plus 1/2 teaspoon of cream of tartar.
Note: This combination will provide the necessary acidity for the reaction.
Best For
Cakes, cookies, and quick breads where a light texture is desired.
2. Buttermilk and Baking Soda
Buttermilk is a fermented dairy product with a slightly tangy flavor. Its acidity reacts with baking soda to produce carbon dioxide gas, which helps baked goods rise.
When using this substitute, be sure to reduce other liquids in the recipe to maintain the proper consistency. You can also use plain yogurt instead of buttermilk, using the same substitution ratio.
How to Use
Substitution Ratio: For every 1 teaspoon of baking powder, use 1/2 cup of buttermilk and 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda.
Note: Reduce the amount of other liquids in the recipe to compensate for the added buttermilk.
Best For
Pancakes, muffins, and quick breads.
3. Yogurt and Baking Soda
Like buttermilk, yogurt is an acidic dairy product that can activate baking soda to create a leavening effect.
Plain yogurt, whether regular or Greek, can be used as a baking powder substitute due to its acidic nature. The tanginess of the yogurt can also add depth of flavor to your baked goods.
When using yogurt, be sure to adjust the other liquid ingredients in the recipe to maintain the proper consistency.
How to Use
Substitution Ratio: For every 1 teaspoon of baking powder, use 1/2 cup of plain yogurt and 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda.
Note: Adjust the amount of other liquids in the recipe accordingly.
Best For
Cakes, muffins, and quick breads.
Lemon Juice
4. Lemon Juice or Vinegar and Baking Soda
Lemon juice and vinegar are both highly acidic liquids that can react with baking soda to produce carbon dioxide gas. White vinegar has the most neutral flavor, making it a good choice for most recipes.
However, apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar can also be used. Lemon juice adds a bright, citrusy note that can complement many baked goods. Keep in mind that using these acidic liquids may alter the flavor profile of your recipe.
How to Use
Substitution Ratio: For every 1 teaspoon of baking powder, use 1/2 teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar and 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda.
Note: This combination may alter the flavor of your baked goods slightly.
Best For
Cakes, muffins, and quick breads where a slight tang can enhance the flavor.
5. Molasses and Baking Soda
Molasses is not as acidic as some other substitutes, but its slight acidity can still react with baking soda to produce a leavening effect.
However, molasses is a very strong flavoring agent. So it’s best used in recipes where its flavor is welcome, such as gingerbread or molasses cookies. Be sure to adjust the amount of sugar in your recipe to account for the sweetness of the molasses.
How to Use
Substitution Ratio: For every 1 teaspoon of baking powder, use 1 tablespoon of molasses and 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda.
Note: Molasses is a strong flavoring agent, so use it sparingly and adjust the amount of sugar in your recipe accordingly.
Best For
Gingerbread, molasses cookies, and other recipes where the flavor of molasses is desirable.
6. Whipped Egg Whites
Whipped egg whites can add air and structure to baked goods, acting as a leavening agent. This method works particularly well in recipes that rely on whipped egg whites for structure, such as angel food cakes, soufflés, and meringues. Be sure to whip the egg whites until they form stiff peaks for the best results.
How to Use
Substitution Ratio: Use 2 egg whites, whipped to stiff peaks, for every 1 teaspoon of baking powder.
Note: Adjust other liquid ingredients in the recipe to compensate for the added moisture from the egg whites.
Best For
Cakes, soufflés, and meringues.
7. Self-Rising Flour
Self-rising flour is a time-saving ingredient that eliminates the need to add baking powder separately. It’s particularly useful in recipes that call for a small amount of flour. Note that self-rising flour also contains salt, so you may need to adjust the amount of salt in your recipe.
How to Use
Substitution Ratio: Replace the regular flour in your recipe with self-rising flour, and omit the baking powder. Adjust the other ingredients accordingly.
Note: Each cup of self-rising flour contains about 1.5 teaspoons of baking powder.
Best For
Quick breads, pancakes, and muffins.
8. Club Soda
Club soda is carbonated water that contains sodium bicarbonate. This makes it a handy substitute in some recipes.
This soda can provide a subtle leavening effect due to the carbon dioxide bubbles it contains. It works best in recipes where a light, airy texture is desired, such as pancakes or waffles. Note that the carbonation may dissipate quickly, so it’s best to work quickly when adding club soda to your batter.
How to Use
Substitution Ratio: Replace the liquid in your recipe with an equal amount of club soda.
Note: This works best in recipes where a light texture is desired, such as waffles or pancakes.
Best For
Pancakes, waffles, and light batters.
9. Potassium Bicarbonate
Potassium bicarbonate is a sodium-free alternative to baking powder that can be used as a 1:1 substitute. It’s a great option for those on low-sodium diets or anyone looking to reduce their sodium intake.
Keep in mind that potassium bicarbonate doesn’t contain the same flavor-enhancing properties as sodium. So you may need to add a pinch of salt to your recipe to balance the flavors.
How to Use
Substitution Ratio: Use 1 teaspoon of potassium bicarbonate for every 1 teaspoon of baking powder.
Note: You may want to add a pinch of salt to your recipe to enhance flavor since potassium bicarbonate doesn’t contain sodium.
Best For
Any recipe that calls for baking powder, especially for those monitoring sodium levels.
10. Baker’s Ammonia (Ammonium Carbonate)
Baker’s ammonia is also known as ammonium carbonate. This is a traditional leavening agent that was commonly used before the invention of baking powder. It produces a light, crisp texture that is ideal for thin cookies and crackers.
However, it can leave behind a slight ammonia smell while baking, which dissipates as the baked goods cool. Baker’s ammonia is less commonly used today but can still be found in some specialty baking stores. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>
How to Use
Substitution Ratio: Use 1 teaspoon of baker’s ammonia for every 1 teaspoon of baking powder.
Note: It may leave a slight ammonia smell while baking, but this dissipates during cooking.
Best For
Thin, crisp cookies and crackers.
11. Whipped Cream
Whipped cream can add moisture and lightness to baked goods. This makes it a suitable substitute for baking powder in some recipes.
It works best in simple recipes like pancakes or cookies, where the added fat from the cream won’t significantly alter the texture. Be sure to adjust other liquid ingredients in the recipe to maintain the proper consistency.
How to Use
Substitution Ratio: Use 2 tablespoons of whipped cream for every 1 teaspoon of baking powder.
Note: Adjust other liquid ingredients in the recipe to compensate for the added moisture from the whipped cream.
Best For
Simple baked goods like pancakes or cookies.
12. Sparkling Water
Sparkling water, like club soda, contains carbon dioxide bubbles that can provide a subtle leavening effect in baked goods. It works best in recipes where a light texture is desired, such as pancakes or waffles.
Keep in mind that the carbonation may dissipate quickly. So it’s important to work quickly when adding sparkling water to your batter.
How to Use
Substitution Ratio: Replace the liquid in your recipe with an equal amount of sparkling water.
Note: The carbonation may dissipate quickly, so work quickly when adding it to the batter.
Best For
Pancakes, waffles, and light batters.
13. Whipped Coconut Cream
For a vegan alternative to whipped cream, you can use whipped coconut cream as a substitute for baking powder.
To make whipped coconut cream, chill a can of full-fat coconut milk overnight, then scoop out the solidified cream from the top. Whip the cream until it forms stiff peaks, then fold it into your batter. This substitute works well in vegan baking, pancakes, and cookies.
How to Use
Substitution Ratio: Use 2 tablespoons of whipped coconut cream for every 1 teaspoon of baking powder.
Note: Chill a can of full-fat coconut milk overnight, then scoop out the solidified cream from the top.
Best For
Vegan baking, pancakes, and cookies.
14. Sour Milk or Buttermilk Powder
Sour milk or buttermilk powder can be used as a baking powder substitute by providing the acidic component needed to activate baking soda. This substitute works well in quick breads, pancakes, and muffins.
How to Use
Substitution Ratio: For every 1 teaspoon of baking powder, use 1 teaspoon of sour milk or buttermilk powder plus 1/2 cup of water.
Note: Allow the mixture to sit for a few minutes before adding it to the recipe.
Best For
Quick breads, pancakes, and muffins.
Baking Soda vs Baking Powder
15. Baking Soda and Acid
If you have baking soda but no baking powder, you can create a substitute by combining it with an acidic ingredient like lemon juice, vinegar, or buttermilk.
The acid will react with the baking soda to produce carbon dioxide gas, providing a leavening effect. This substitute works best in recipes that already contain an acidic ingredient.
How to Use
Substitution Ratio: For every 1 teaspoon of baking powder, use 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda plus 1 teaspoon of an acidic ingredient like lemon juice, vinegar, or buttermilk.
Note: The acid will activate the baking soda, creating a leavening effect.
Best For
Recipes that already contain an acidic ingredient.
16. Aquafaba
Aquafaba is a fantastic vegan substitute because it mimics the properties of egg whites. This can provide both moisture and structure to baked goods.
To use aquafaba, simply drain a can of chickpeas and reserve the liquid. Whip the aquafaba using a hand mixer or a stand mixer until it reaches stiff peaks, similar to whipped egg whites. This makes it an excellent choice for recipes like meringues, and mousses.
How to Use
Substitution Ratio: Use 3 tablespoons of aquafaba for every 1 teaspoon of baking powder.
Note: This is a great vegan substitute that adds moisture and structure.
Best For
Vegan baking, meringues, and cakes.
17. Skip It
For inherently dense recipes, you can often skip the baking powder without significantly affecting the outcome. This approach works well for recipes that rely on other leavening agents or methods.
Just be aware that the final texture may be denser than if baking powder were used, but it can still be delicious.
How to Use
Note: This may result in a denser final product, but it’s not the end of the world. Recipes that rely on other leavening methods, like whipped egg whites or creaming butter and sugar, may still turn out well.
Best For
Dense cookies, brownies, and some cakes.
18. Baking Soda and Cream of Tartar (Homemade Baking Powder)
Making your baking powder is a simple and effective way to ensure you have a leavening agent on hand. This homemade version works just as well as store-bought baking powder. Plus, it allows you to control the ingredients.
The combination of baking soda and cream of tartar creates the same chemical reaction that occurs in commercial baking powder. This substitute is particularly useful in recipes where you need to avoid additives found in some commercial baking powders.
How to Use
Substitution Ratio: For every 1 teaspoon of baking powder, use 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda plus 1/2 teaspoon of cream of tartar.
Note: This combination will provide the necessary acidity for the reaction.
Best For
Any recipe that calls for baking powder.
FAQs
1. Can I use baking soda instead of baking powder?
Yes, you can use baking soda as a substitute for baking powder, but you will need to add an acid to activate it. For every teaspoon of baking powder, use 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda and 1/2 teaspoon of an acidic ingredient like vinegar, lemon juice, or cream of tartar.
2. What happens if I don’t have any baking powder?
If you don’t have baking powder, you can use one of the substitutes mentioned in this guide, such as baking soda with an acid, yogurt, or buttermilk. Alternatively, you can skip it in recipes that don’t rely heavily on leavening, but the final product may be denser.
3. Can I use self-rising flour instead of baking powder?
Yes, self-rising flour contains baking powder and salt, so you can use it as a substitute. Replace the all-purpose flour in your recipe with self-rising flour and omit the baking powder. Each cup of self-rising flour contains about 1.5 teaspoons of baking powder.
4. How do I know if my baking powder is still good?
To test the freshness of your baking powder, add a teaspoon of it to a small bowl of hot water. If it bubbles vigorously, it’s still active. If there’s little to no reaction, it’s time to replace it.
5. Can I use expired baking powder?
It’s not recommended to use expired baking powder, as it may not provide the necessary leavening power. Always check the expiration date and perform a freshness test if you’re unsure.
6. How do I know which substitute to use?
The best substitute depends on the recipe and the other ingredients involved. Some substitutes work better in certain types of baked goods than others.
In Kithimani, Yatta, an intense argument broke out at a local market after two women clashed over a man. The incident occurred in a popular hotel where one of the women was peacefully enjoying a meal of chicken and fries. Her rival stormed in, visibly furious, and immediately confronted her, accusing her of stealing her boyfriend…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>
The angry woman yanked the other from her seat, sending the meal flying, and unleashed a torrent of accusations. “Why are you trying to compete with me? You’ve destroyed my relationship with your selfishness. Stay away from my boyfriend, or I’ll ruin your face. I won’t let you take him from me!” she screamed, attracting the attention of everyone in the hotel.
The hotel management quickly intervened, trying to restore order. However, the situation only worsened as the women refused to calm down. Their loud altercation disrupted the peace, and soon, other customers began to leave, unable to enjoy their meals amidst the chaos.
With no other option, the hotel staff asked both women to leave the premises. The argument, which had started over a relationship issue, had now created a public disturbance, drawing the attention of passersby outside the hotel.
Black castor oil, particularly the Jamaican variety, has gained immense popularity in recent years. This oil is a variety of castor oil that is extracted from roasted castor beans. The traditional Jamaican method involves roasting the beans, and then crushing them in a mortar. Water is added to the mashed beans, and the mixture is slow-boiled over a fire, resulting in a thick, dark brown oil. This process is believed to enhance the oil’s potency and therapeutic properties compared to regular cold-pressed castor oil…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>> READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>
