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baking powder

American  

noun

  1. any of various powders used as a substitute for yeast in baking, composed of sodium bicarbonate mixed with an acid substance, as cream of tartar, capable of setting carbon dioxide free when the mixture is moistened, causing the dough to rise.


baking powder British  

noun

  1. any of various powdered mixtures that contain sodium bicarbonate, starch (usually flour), and one or more slightly acidic compounds, such as cream of tartar: used in baking as a substitute for yeast

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

baking powder Scientific  
/ bākĭng /
  1. A mixture of baking soda, a nonreactive filler (such as starch), and at least one slightly acidic compound (such as cream of tartar). Baking powder works as a leavening agent in baking by releasing carbon dioxide when mixed with a liquid, such as milk or water.


Etymology

Origin of baking powder

First recorded in 1840–50

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Whisk the flour, curry powder, baking soda, baking powder, and MSG, if using, together in a medium bowl.

From Salon

In a bowl, combine your dry ingredients: flour, cocoa, salt, baking powder, baking soda.

From Salon

Once cooled, the paste is incorporated with flour, baking powder and salt to make a dough.

From Salon

If the tech industry were a bakery, dysprosium would be like baking powder: It is used in small quantities but essential for enabling electric-car motors, wind turbines, military systems and computer-chip machinery.

From The Wall Street Journal

Chemical leaveners, like baking powder and baking soda, however, can actually help the process there.

From Salon