A little pinch goes a long way, and it doesn’t expire.
And you might wonder if it’s worth purchasingwhatexactlydoes it do in baked goods?
The short answer is that cream of tartar does more than you might think.
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What Is Cream Of Tartar?
Cream of tartar is a byproduct of the wine-making process.
It forms on wine barrels and is scraped off, purified, and ground into powder for cooking.
It’s an acid that was once used in combination withbaking sodaand cornstarch to make baking powder.
How Is It Used In Baking?
Here’s how you’lluse cream of tartarin your kitchen.
you might also use a pinch inwhipped creamto help keep it from deflating.
It also prevents cooling sugars from forming brittle crystals.
This is why it’s the secret ingredient in Snickerdoodle cookies.
It also adds a slight tang that balances out the sweetness.
What Happens If I Omit Cream Of Tartar?
What Can You Substitute For Cream Of Tartar?
This depends on its intended use.
If using to prevent sugar crystallization, it’s possible for you to use an invert sugar instead.
Is Cream Of Tartar The Same As Baking Soda?
Cream of tartar and baking soda are not the same, but the confusion is understandable.
Cream of tartar was once used withbaking sodato make baking powder.
), cream of tartar is an acid, which is why together they can help leaven baked goods.
Does Cream Of Tartar Go Bad?
Cream of tartar doesn’t expire as long as it’s kept in a cool, dry place.
Is Cream Of Tartar Healthy?
Cream of tartar is potassium-rich and also contains trace amounts of zinc, calcium, iron, and magnesium.
However, its use as a laxative is the only science-backed use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Cream of tartar is acidic and tangy, with a slight citrus flavor.
Its flavor is similar to lemon juice or vinegar in a recipe.
If you use too much, the final dish may have a metallic taste.
Besides baking, cream of tartar can be used to help boiled vegetables retain their vibrant color.
Just add a pinch to the boiling water.
It can also be used to make play dough or to keep pots and pans clean.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration.Code of Federal Regulations Title 21.
