Baking a cake and just realized you’re out of baking powder? No stress—you can still make a fluffy, delicious cake using ingredients you probably already have at home.
In this article, you’ll learn how to bake a cake without baking powder, using effective substitutes and smart techniques to get that perfect rise.
What Does Baking Powder Do?
Baking powder is a leavening agent—it helps your cake rise by producing air bubbles when it reacts with liquid and heat. Without it, your cake could end up dense and flat… unless you use an alternative.
Best Substitutes for Baking Powder in Cake Recipes
Baking soda + vinegar or lemon juice
Use ¼ tsp baking soda + ½ tbsp vinegar (or lemon juice) for every 1 tsp of baking powder.
Buttermilk or yogurt + baking soda
The acidity in buttermilk/yogurt helps activate baking soda.
Whipped egg whites
They act as a natural leavening agent—perfect for sponge-style cakes.
Easy Cake Recipe Without Baking Powder
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tbsp vinegar or lemon juice
- ½ cup sugar
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 eggs (or 3 egg whites whipped stiff, if preferred)
- ¾ cup milk or yogurt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the oven
Set to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch cake pan.
2. Mix wet ingredients
Whisk together sugar, oil, eggs, milk, vinegar, and vanilla.
3. Add dry ingredients
Sift in flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir gently just until combined.
If using whipped egg whites, fold them in last using a spatula.
4. Bake
Pour into your pan and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Cool
Let it sit in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack.
Tips for the Best Rise Without Baking Powder
- Don’t let the batter sit—bake immediately after mixing
- Use room temperature ingredients
- Sift dry ingredients to avoid lumps
- If using vinegar + soda, mix quickly to trap the bubbles
- Whipped egg whites? Fold gently to keep the air in
Flavor Variations
- Chocolate Cake – Add ¼ cup cocoa powder and 2 tbsp more liquid
- Lemon Cake – Use lemon juice as the acid + zest for brightness
- Banana Cake – Add mashed banana and reduce sugar
- Coconut Cake – Swap milk for coconut milk and top with shredded coconut
Simple Toppings
- Powdered sugar
- Lemon glaze
- Jam and fruit
- Melted chocolate drizzle
Rise to the Occasion—Even Without Baking Powder
Running out of ingredients doesn’t mean giving up on baking. With a few smart swaps, you can still create a light, tender cake with the right lift and texture—even without baking powder.
Try it out and see for yourself—this cake might become a new go-to!
