Post by @tammyscookiecompany

Why is baking powder called “double-acting”? 🤔⁣ ⁣ Double-acting baking powder releases carbon dioxide gas twice.⁣ First when it’s mixed with liquid, and again when it’s heated in the oven. That second reaction helps baked goods rise higher and more evenly.⁣ ⁣ Baking powder vs. baking soda:⁣ ⁣ • Baking soda needs an acid (like brown sugar, yogurt, or natural cocoa) to react. It raises the dough’s pH, which speeds up browning and helps create those deep golden, chewy cookies.⁣ ⁣ • Baking powder already contains an acid (often cream of tartar), so it doesn’t need one in the recipe. It keeps the dough closer to neutral pH, which means lighter color, more lift, and a softer, cakier texture with less spread.⁣ ⁣ That’s why sugar cookies often use baking powder, while many bakery-style browned butter cookies rely on baking soda.⁣ ⁣ 💡 Fun fact: Most double-acting baking powders release about 60% of their gas when hydrated and 40% when heated. That’s why you don’t have to rush cookie dough into the oven after mixing.⁣ ⁣ ✨ If you love baking science, you’ll love my cookie baking tutorials. I teach how to make cookies that are crispy on the outside yet stay soft inside for well over a week—and they’re packed with flavor.⁣ ⁣ Check out my website or bio, or message me for the link.⁣ ⁣ Follow for more cookie science and baking tips 🍪⁣ ⁣ #BakingScience #BakingTips #CookieScience #HomeBakers #CookieBaking