What is double acting baking powder?

Double-acting baking powder is a leavening agent often used in baking to help dough or batter rise and produce a light and fluffy texture.

One of the key differences between double-acting baking powder and regular baking powder is that double-acting baking powder reacts in two stages. The first reaction occurs when the baking powder is mixed with a liquid, and the second reaction occurs when it is exposed to heat.

Double-acting baking powder typically contains a combination of an acid, such as cream of tartar or sodium aluminum sulfate, and an alkaline component, such as baking soda or sodium aluminum phosphate. When these two components are mixed with a liquid, they react to produce carbon dioxide gas, which creates bubbles in the dough or batter and causes it to rise.

Because double-acting baking powder has two stages of leavening, it is often preferred for recipes that require longer baking times or recipes that need to stand before baking. It provides a consistent rise and helps create a light and airy texture in baked goods.

It is important to store double-acting baking powder in a cool, dry place to maintain its effectiveness. It should also be used before the expiration date listed on the packaging for best results.