baking powder

noun

: a powder used as a leavening agent in making baked goods (such as quick breads) that typically consists of sodium bicarbonate, an acidic substance (such as cream of tartar), and starch or flour

Examples of baking powder in a Sentence

The recipe calls for a teaspoon of baking powder.

Recent Examples on the Web

Whisk together the flour, both cornmeals, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. —Anne Byrn, Southern Living, 17 Oct. 2024

Forty Beer Mustard, for serving (recipe follows) Directions Make batter: Whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. —David Bancroft, Southern Living, 3 Oct. 2024

Buttermilk and lemon juice add gentle acidity, sharpening the banana flavor and keeping the fruit from browning so much; baking soda—rather than baking powder—gives instant lift. —Ruby Tandoh, The New Yorker, 28 Sep. 2024

Sift the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves into a medium bowl. —Bethany Thayer, Detroit Free Press, 22 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1846, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

baking powder

noun

: a powder that usually consists of sodium bicarbonate, an acidic substance (as cream of tartar), and starch or flour and that makes the dough rise in baked goods (as cakes)