Does baking powder go bad? If you want to bake a fail-proof cake or batch of cupcakes you need baking powder that’s working properly. Learn how to know if it’s working.
Baking powder is one of the integral ingredients when it comes to baking.
However, suppose you are not an avid baker and love making cakes and pastries occasionally.
In that case, there could be high chances that your baking powder might stay untouched in the kitchen cabinet for months.
Does that affect the quality of the baking powder? Does baking powder go bad?
Here is a detailed guide on everything you need to know about the expiry of baking powder. Let’s check it out.
Does baking powder go bad?
By the end of the day, baking powder is just a powder. With the slightest water splash or drops comes a myriad of fungus and microorganisms settling within the powder.
But even if you conserve the baking powder dry with no touch of water ever, it will still be safe to use. However, the potency might decrease, and your buns might not rise as they should. Thus, it is highly crucial to keep a check on the baking powder regularly.
How long does baking powder last?
Most packages and containers of baking powder come with an expiry date. Nonetheless, it is quite a rough estimate.
If you have opened the box of the baking powder, it is most likely to remain fresh for at least 3 to 6 months approximately.
The duration is longer and is more than six months if the package remains unopened till then.
Lastly, all of it depends on the air and moisture it captures meanwhile.
How to test my baking powder?
If you have a package of baking powder that is quite old and are confused about whether it still works or not, here is a quick test that can validate its potency!
Ingredients required:
- One teaspoon of baking powder
- ⅓ cup of hot water
Instructions:
Step 1: Add in the baking powder in a cup.
Step 2: Add the hot water on top of it and wait for a few seconds.
If you see bubbles popping within the mixture, then you can be sure that baking powder is potent and will work perfectly with your dish.
If there are no bubbles, it is time that you discard the package.
How to store baking powder?
To maximize the potency of baking powder for a more extended period, store your baking powder just like you store other powders like wheat, baking soda, etc.
Store your baking powder in a cold and dry place to prevent any water droplets from sneaking into the powder. Keep the container tightly sealed after use.
Alternatively, transfer your baking powder to airtight containers to keep air and humidity at bay. In that way, you will eventually enhance the longevity of the baking powder.
What to cook with baking powder
You can use baking powder in many recipes, like:
Cakes. To prepare a lemon cake in no time, you must follow this recipe.
Muffins. Nothing better than sprinkle muffins. Believe me!
Cupcakes. If you are in the mood for a chocolate heart cupcake, you must bake this!
Cookies. You can try these lemon cookies, which bakes super fast!
Scones. A scone is perfect for breakfast or tea time.
Pancakes. Nothing says weekend like pancakes, and these oreo pancakes have a lot to say!
Final Thoughts
Baking powder is a fantastic ingredient for baking your favorite savories. However, if you find any molds or the presence of visible fungus, immediately discard it.
Thus, keep a regular check on your powders and create the tastiest lip-smacking cakes ever! Expired or old baking powder might hamper health in the long run.
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