Baking powder是什麼意思

"Baking powder" is a leavening agent used in baking to make cakes, muffins, quick breads, and other baked goods rise by producing carbon dioxide gas. It is a mixture of baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) and one or more acid salts, such as cream of tartar or sodium aluminum sulfate. When combined with moisture and heat, these ingredients react to form carbon dioxide gas, which causes the dough or batter to expand, creating a light and fluffy texture.

Baking powder is a convenient ingredient for baking because it already contains the acid needed to activate the baking soda, whereas baking soda (also known as bicarbonate of soda) requires an acidic ingredient, such as buttermilk, yogurt, or vinegar, to produce the necessary carbon dioxide for leavening.

There are two main types of baking powder: single-acting and double-acting. Single-acting baking powder reacts immediately when it comes into contact with moisture, while double-acting baking powder has an additional acid that reacts when it is heated, providing a second leavening boost in the oven. Double-acting baking powder is more commonly used because it provides better results in most baking applications.