Can't keep baking powder fresh

[debodun]

Before using, I always proof my BP by sprinkling some into vinegar to see how much it fizzes since mine seems to go flat in a few weeks. I tried sealing the can once I open it in a zip-lock plastic bag which I squeezed as much air out of before zipping, then putting it in the fridge. A little better but not much. Any suggestions on what else I can try?

 

[RadishRose]

http://www.homebaking.org/foreducators/askexperts/ingredientstorage.html

 

[Camper6]

Before using, I always proof my BP by sprinkling some into vinegar to see how much it fizzes since mine seems to go flat in a few weeks. I tried sealing the can once I open it in a zip-lock plastic bag which I squeezed as much air out of before zipping, then putting it in the fridge. A little better but not much. Any suggestions on what else I can try?

I have never heard of that. I just assumed that it worked in baking even if it was old.

Baking soda is Sodium Bicarbonate. It only lasts 30 days in the refrigerator if open.

I think it has to be stored dry because the only thing I can see that will cause it to deteriorate is moisture.

Don't put it in the fridge. Put it somewhere dry.

You buy it in a can? The one I get is in a box. Arm and Hammer.

http://www.armandhammer.com/Index.aspx

 

[Ruth n Jersey]

I keep my baking powder in its original can in my kitchen cabinet away from any type of dampness such as one near my sink or stove. When you dip your measuring spoon into the can make sure it is absolutely dry. I was in a hurry one day and had washed the measuring spoon but didn't dry it well enough. The dampness from the spoon made the baking powder hard and lumpy. I had to throw it out. Mine lasts about a year.

 

[Marie5656]

http://www.homebaking.org/foreducators/askexperts/ingredientstorage.html

Glad I saw this. I was about to post here about keeping yeast, and this article answered the question.

 

[Falcon]

I thought baking powder and baking soda were TWO different things.

 

[Camper6]

I thought baking powder and baking soda were TWO different things.

They are two different chemicals. Sometimes used together in a recipe. Sometimes used alone.

All baking recipes are chemically related. All the ingredients have a chemical reaction with one another.

 

[RadishRose]

They are different Falcon. Deb was asking about powder, not soda.

"Trust in God and keep your powder dry"

 

[terry123]

Haven't used or thought about baking powder in years. Do keep baking soda around for many things though.

 

[debbie in seattle]

Maybe your vinegar has gone bad.

 

[jujube]

My first cake as a new bride: I used self-rising flour, knowing nothing about it and then added baking power as the recipe called for. My cake puffed up like a beach ball, ran over the sides onto the oven floor and then deflated like a balloon stuck with a pin. The cake was three inches on the edges and about 1/4 of an inch high in the middle.

I cried the rest of the day because I really wanted to make a nice cake for my new husband.

 

[nvtribefan]

Before using, I always proof my BP by sprinkling some into vinegar to see how much it fizzes since mine seems to go flat in a few weeks. I tried sealing the can once I open it in a zip-lock plastic bag which I squeezed as much air out of before zipping, then putting it in the fridge. A little better but not much. Any suggestions on what else I can try?

Check the date on the can. Replace it.
I've never tested either baking powder or baking soda before using it. I use and replace them both regularly, though.

 

[Camper6]

My first cake as a new bride: I used self-rising flour, knowing nothing about it and then added baking power as the recipe called for. My cake puffed up like a beach ball, ran over the sides onto the oven floor and then deflated like a balloon stuck with a pin. The cake was three inches on the edges and about 1/4 of an inch high in the middle.

I cried the rest of the day because I really wanted to make a nice cake for my new husband.

Why would you cry.? You could have taken it out on the lawn and played soccer with it.

I remember many a disaster. The best one was when I used ordinary detergent in my dishwasher. I couldn't keep up with the suds coming out the door onto the kitchen floor.