Can baking soda substitute an egg?

Baking soda cannot directly substitute for an egg in baking.

Here's why:

* Eggs have multiple functions in baking:

* Binding: They help hold ingredients together, creating structure.

* Moisture: They add moisture to the batter.

* Emulsification: They help mix fats and liquids evenly.

* Leavening: They contribute to rise through their protein structure.

* Flavor and Color: They add richness and color to baked goods.

* Baking soda is a leavening agent: It reacts with acid to produce carbon dioxide bubbles, which make baked goods rise.

Instead of using baking soda, consider these alternatives:

* For binding and moisture:

* Applesauce: Use 1/4 cup of applesauce for every egg.

* Mashed banana: Use 1/4 cup of mashed banana for every egg.

* Ground flaxseed: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water and let it sit for 5 minutes to form a gel. Use 1 tablespoon of this mixture for every egg.

* For leavening:

* Baking powder: You might need to adjust the amount of baking powder depending on the recipe.

* Commercial egg replacers: These are available in grocery stores and are designed to replace eggs in baking.

Remember, it's always best to test out any substitute in a small batch first to ensure the recipe turns out as expected.