Cream of Tartar Substitute
No cream of tartar? Here's what actually replaces it, not just "leave it out."
Real substitutes for 1 teaspoon of cream of tartar
Lemon juice or white vinegar
2 teaspoons lemon juice or vinegar per teaspoon of cream of tartar
Works when cream of tartar is providing acidity (like stabilizing whipped egg whites or activating baking soda) -- it won't work as a 1:1 swap in a recipe that specifically needs cream of tartar's dry form.
Baking powder (in place of baking soda + cream of tartar together)
1.5 teaspoons baking powder replaces 1/2 teaspoon baking soda + 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
If a recipe calls for both together as a homemade baking powder, just use real baking powder instead -- it's already that same combination.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I use instead of cream of tartar?
Lemon juice or white vinegar (2 teaspoons per teaspoon of cream of tartar) works when you need the acidity -- stabilizing whipped egg whites or meringue, or activating baking soda in a recipe.
Why do meringue recipes call for cream of tartar?
The acid helps stabilize whipped egg whites, giving the meringue more volume and making it less likely to collapse or weep. Lemon juice or vinegar does the same job in a pinch.
What if a recipe calls for baking soda and cream of tartar together?
That combination is homemade baking powder -- if you have real baking powder, just use that instead (roughly 1.5 teaspoons baking powder per 1/2 teaspoon baking soda + 1 teaspoon cream of tartar called for).