When it comes to baking, few ingredients are as versatile or effective as baking powder. This simple mixture of baking soda and acid (usually cream of tartar) helps leaven baked goods, giving them a light and airy texture that’s hard to resist. From classic breakfast treats like pancakes and waffles, to sweet indulgences like muffins and cakes, baking powder is the unsung hero behind many of our favorite baked goods. In this article, we’ll explore 20 recipes that showcase the power of baking powder, from savory delights like fried chicken and onion rings, to sweet treats like cupcakes and donuts. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these fluffy recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Classic Buttermilk Pancakes
A classic breakfast favorite, these fluffy pancakes are a staple in many households. Made with buttermilk, flour, and a hint of sweetness, they’re perfect for a lazy Sunday morning or a quick weeknight breakfast.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Melted butter or oil for greasing the pan
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In another bowl, combine sugar, eggs, and buttermilk. Whisk until smooth.
3. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grease with butter or oil if necessary.
5. Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, scoop batter onto the pan.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip pancakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes (depending on the number of pancakes).
Light and Airy Biscuits
A classic Southern treat that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack. These tender biscuits are easy to make and require only a few simple ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup buttermilk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Pour in buttermilk and stir until the dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times.
6. Roll out the dough to about 1 inch (2.5 cm) thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a biscuit cutter or the rim of a glass.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) between biscuits.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Homemade Waffles with Maple Syrup
Start your day off right with a crispy and delicious homemade waffle, drizzled with sweet maple syrup. This classic breakfast treat is easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
– 4 tablespoons melted butter
– Maple syrup (for serving)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and melted butter.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Pour approximately 1/4 cup of batter onto the center of the waffle iron and spread evenly to fill the grid.
6. Cook for 3-5 minutes or until the waffles are golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes (depending on the number of waffles)
Fluffy Blueberry Muffins
Start your day with a sweet treat that’s packed with fresh blueberries and topped with a crunchy streusel topping. These fluffy muffins are perfect for breakfast or as a snack any time of the day.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
• Streusel topping (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Add the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Gently fold in blueberries.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Streusel Topping:
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Mix dry ingredients and butter until crumbly. Sprinkle over muffins before baking.
Perfectly Crispy Fried Chicken
Transform your fried chicken game with this simple recipe that yields a crispy exterior and juicy interior.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat. Place coated chicken on a plate or tray.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
5. Carefully place 3-4 chicken pieces into the hot oil. Fry for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove fried chicken from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Golden Cornbread
Brighten up your meal with this scrumptious Golden Cornbread recipe! Moist and flavorful, it’s the perfect accompaniment to your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup heavy cream or buttermilk
– Honey, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, egg, and heavy cream or buttermilk.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Drizzle with honey, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies
Perfectly balanced with a hint of sweetness and the perfect amount of chewiness, these soft chocolate chip cookies are a classic treat that’s easy to make and always a hit.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
6. Stir in chocolate chips.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Easy Banana Bread
Moist and delicious banana bread that’s perfect for a quick snack or breakfast on-the-go. This recipe is a classic, using ripe bananas and minimal ingredients to create a tasty treat.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Fluffy Vanilla Cupcakes
These moist and delicious cupcakes are perfect for any occasion. With their light and airy texture, they’re sure to be a hit with anyone who tries them.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 1 cup whole milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Add milk and mix until batter is smooth.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Southern-Style Buttermilk Fried Fish
A classic Southern dish that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. This recipe is a staple of Southern cuisine, perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fish fillets (catfish, cod, or haddock work well)
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together buttermilk, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Dip the fish fillets in the buttermilk mixture, coating both sides evenly.
3. Dredge the fish in flour, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the fish for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 8-10 minutes total.
Light Lemon Poppy Seed Cake
This refreshing cake is perfect for springtime gatherings or a sweet treat any time of the year. With its moist lemon-infused flavor and crunchy poppy seeds, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, eggs, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
3. Add melted butter and poppy seeds; mix until just combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Quick and Easy Scones
Start your day off right with these soft and fluffy scones, perfect for a breakfast or snack on-the-go. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, you’ll be enjoying warm, freshly baked scones in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup heavy cream or buttermilk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into the dry ingredients until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Pour in heavy cream or buttermilk and stir until dough comes together in a ball.
5. Turn dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times.
6. Pat dough into a circle that is about 1 inch thick.
7. Cut into wedges and place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each scone.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Homemade Angel Food Cake
Experience the delight of a classic homemade angel food cake, perfect for special occasions or everyday treats. This recipe yields a tender, fluffy, and deliciously sweet cake that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour, sifted
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) egg whites, at room temperature
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until stiff peaks form.
4. Add egg mixture to flour mixture; gently fold until no streaks remain.
5. Pour batter into an ungreased 10-inch (25cm) tube pan or angel food cake pan.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the cake springs back when touched.
7. Remove from oven; invert onto a wire rack to cool.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Fluffy Cinnamon Rolls
Start your day with a sweet treat that’s both soft and indulgent – these Fluffy Cinnamon Rolls are sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup cinnamon sugar (see notes)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-12 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Roll out the dough into a large rectangle, about 1/4-inch thick.
5. Sprinkle cinnamon sugar evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
6. Roll up the dough tightly, starting from one long side. Cut into 12 equal pieces.
7. Place rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space for expansion. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
8. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Notes: To make cinnamon sugar, mix together equal parts granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Use immediately or store at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Golden Brown Onion Rings
Elevate your snack game with crispy, golden brown onion rings that are surprisingly easy to make! This recipe yields a flavorful and addictive treat perfect for munching on while watching the big game or as a side dish for your favorite meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rings
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each onion ring into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
5. Fry onion rings in batches for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
6. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Perfectly Fluffy Crepes
Start your day with a delicate French breakfast treat that’s easy to make and utterly delicious! These perfectly fluffy crepes are filled with sweet or savory goodness, making them a versatile breakfast or brunch option.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3 tablespoons butter, melted
• Optional fillings (e.g., fruit, whipped cream, Nutella, or ham and cheese)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, eggs, and milk until smooth.
2. Add salt and melted butter; mix well.
3. Heat a small non-stick pan over medium heat. Pour 1/4 cup of batter into the pan.
4. Tilt the pan to evenly coat the bottom with batter.
5. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until edges start to curl and center is almost set.
6. Loosen crepe with a spatula and flip; cook for another minute.
7. Repeat with remaining batter and fill with your desired filling.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes (depending on the number of crepes)
Soft Pretzels with Cheese Dip
Get ready to satisfy your snack cravings with these soft, buttery pretzels served alongside a creamy cheese dip. Perfect for game day gatherings or cozy nights in!
Ingredients:
– 1 package active dry yeast
– 2 cups warm water
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup pretzel toppings (optional)
– Cheese Dip:
+ 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
+ 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
+ 1/2 cup sour cream
+ 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine yeast, warm water, and sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes.
3. Add flour, salt, and melted butter. Mix until dough forms. Knead for 5-7 minutes.
4. Place dough on the prepared baking sheet. Shape into pretzels.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Meanwhile, mix cheese dip ingredients in a bowl.
7. Serve warm pretzels with cheese dip.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fluffy Red Velvet Cake
Get ready to impress with this classic red velvet cake recipe, featuring a moist and fluffy texture, a subtle cocoa flavor, and a beautiful deep red color. Perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons red food coloring
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine butter and eggs. Add red food coloring and mix until combined.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, alternating with buttermilk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients.
5. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans and smooth tops.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Light and Crispy Tempura Vegetables
A delightful and refreshing twist on traditional tempura, this recipe yields a crispy exterior while preserving the natural sweetness of the vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup ice-cold soda water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Assorted vegetables (such as carrots, zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt.
2. Gradually add soda water, stirring until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
3. Dip vegetables into the batter, making sure they are fully coated.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
5. Carefully place battered vegetables into the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes total, depending on the size and number of vegetables
Easy Homemade Donuts
Start your day with a sweet treat that’s surprisingly easy to make! This simple recipe yields soft and fluffy donuts that are perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and yeast.
2. Gradually add milk and mix until smooth.
3. Beat in eggs and add salt.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5 minutes.
5. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
7. Punch down dough and use a donut cutter or a glass to shape into rings.
8. Fry donuts for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
9. Drain excess oil and let cool on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your baking game with these 20 fluffy baking powder recipes for every occasion! From classic buttermilk pancakes and light and airy biscuits, to soft and chewy chocolate chip cookies and perfectly crispy fried chicken, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for sweet treats like fluffy vanilla cupcakes or golden brown onion rings, or savory delights like southern-style buttermilk fried fish, these recipes are sure to please.
