The Leaven Test determines if previously used baking powder (or baking soda) is active. Always test before using in a recipe.
Leavening creates moist, light baked goods with volume and a tender texture.
Inactive baking powder (or baking soda) will cause biscuits, bread, cake, cookies, etc. not to rise and have a very unpleasant taste.
Make sure they’re active BEFORE using in a recipe.
CLICK HERE TO PIN ON PINTEREST (THE LEAVEN TEST).
EDITOR’S NOTE (September 27, 2022): I posted these helpful tips for the first time on September 27, 2019. Today, I changed the name from Baking Soda/Baking Powder Freshness Test to The Leaven Test.
DISCLAIMER (NOT SPONSORED): I have not been paid to endorse the pictured products I purchased and used to make this recipe.
All comments are my own.
WHAT ARE LEAVENING AGENTS?
Leavening agents are ingredients and techniques used in baking and cooking. They cause the expansion of various doughs and batters which makes them light and airy.
In baking, there are three types of leavening agents:
- Baking soda and baking powder (chemical leaveners).
- Yeast (an organic leavener).
- Air and steam (mechanical leaveners).
Leavening creates moist, light baked goods with volume and a tender texture.
Read more on The Baker’s Almanac.
Baking Powder stored with a loose lid must be tested before using in a recipe.
Also test an opened box of Baking Soda not properly stored in a sealed container.
HELPFUL BAKING SODA TIPS
After opening a new box of baking soda, write the date that’s 30 days after opened.
Discard after it expires and purchase a new box.
Store opened baking soda in a zippered storage bag.
Keep it in a cool, dry place.
Pure baking soda has hundreds of uses.
For more tips, visit www.armandhammer.com.
HOW TO TEST BAKING SODA
Pour three tablespoons of distilled white vinegar into a small bowl or measuring cup.
Stir baking soda with a dry utensil or measuring spoon.
Drop 1/2 teaspoon into the vinegar.
A vigorous fizz means it’s effective and okay to use.
Discard if it’s flat or has a light fizz.
HELPFUL BAKING POWDER TIPS
Before using baking powder, vigorously shake the can.
Then, stir the contents with a dry utensil or measuring spoon.
After measuring required amount with a dry measuring spoon, place the lid on tight.
If left partially closed, the baking powder will become stale and inactive.
Store in a cool, dry place.
Baking powder is used in my Homemade Millionaire Pound Cake
WHERE TO FIND BAKING POWDER’S EXPIRATION DATE
To find Baking Powder’s expiration date, flip the can upside down.
On the bottom, you will find the printed month, year and date.
If it has expired, test to make sure it’s active before using.
HOW TO TEST BAKING POWDER FOR EFFECTIVENESS
Pour three tablespoons of boiling hot water into a heat proof container.
Drop 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder into the hot water.
A vigorous fizz means it’s effective and okay to use.
Discard if it’s flat or has a light fizz.
Read more in The Kitchn’s informative online article.
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The Leaven Test.
The Leaven Test
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons white distilled vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 3 tablespoons hot water
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions
HOW TO TEST BAKING SODA
- Pour three tablespoons of distilled white vinegar into a small bowl or measuring cup. Stir contents in baking soda box with a dry measuring spoon. Drop 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda into the vinegar. A vigorous fizz means it's effective and okay to use. Discard if it's flat or has a light fizz.
HOW TO TEST BAKING POWDER
- Pour three tablespoons of boiling hot water into a heat proof container. Drop 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder into the hot water. A vigorous fizz means it's effective and okay to use. Discard if it's flat or has a light fizz.
