What does baking power do for a recipe?

Baking powder is a dry chemical leavening agent, which means that it produces gas and causes baked goods to rise. It is a mixture of baking soda, an acid (usually cream of tartar or sodium acid pyrophosphate), and a drying agent (usually cornstarch). When baking powder is mixed with water, the acid reacts with the baking soda to produce carbon dioxide gas. The gas bubbles up and causes the batter or dough to rise.

Baking powder is used in many different types of recipes, including cakes, cookies, muffins, pancakes, and waffles. It is important to measure baking powder accurately, as too much or too little can affect the texture of the finished product.

Here are some tips for using baking powder:

- Always measure baking powder accurately.

- If a recipe calls for baking powder, do not substitute baking soda.

- Baking powder should be stored in a cool, dry place.

- Baking powder can lose its potency over time, so it is important to check the expiration date before using it.