Baking Agent|Acid | Vegetarian Vegan Gluten Free Low Sodium

Cream Of Tartar

Potassium Bitartrate Allergen-Free
Cream Of Tartar

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family N/A (Chemical Compound)
  • Primary Cuisine Global
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Grapes (byproduct of winemaking)

The Forktionary Angle

"The unsung hero of the baking world, turning delicate meringues into stable masterpieces and achieving perfect confectionary textures."

Definition

An acidic salt, potassium bitartrate, used as a leavening agent stabilizer for egg whites, and to prevent sugar crystallization in confectioneries.

Sensory Profile

TasteTart, Acidic
TextureFine Powder
AromaOdorless
AcidityHigh

Technical Metrics

Chemical Composition

Potassium acid tartrate, a byproduct of winemaking.

Primary Function (Egg Whites)

Stabilizes egg whites, allowing them to reach greater volume and hold their shape.

Shelf Life (Sealed)

Indefinite if stored in a cool, dry, dark place, but potency may diminish over time.

Nutrition Facts

Per 2g (1/2 tsp)
Calories258 kcal
Total Fat0 g
Saturated Fat0 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein0 g
Total Carbohydrate65 g
Dietary Fiber0 g
Total Sugars0 g
Calcium20 mg
Iron0.1 mg
Potassium16500 mg

Chef’s Secret

When whipping egg whites, add cream of tartar early in the whipping process (when they are foamy) to help stabilize them and achieve maximum volume and firm peaks.

Substitutions

Best Match

Lemon Juice

1 tsp Cream of Tartar : 2 tsp Lemon Juice

Best for stabilizing egg whites or as an acid component in leavening, but adds liquid.

White Vinegar

1 tsp Cream of Tartar : 2 tsp White Vinegar

Good for acidic reactions, similar to lemon juice, but has a stronger taste.

Baking Powder (as leavener)

1 tsp Cream of Tartar : 1.5 tsp Baking Powder

Only suitable if Cream of Tartar is used *with baking soda* for leavening. Baking powder is a complete leavener.

Citric Acid

1 tsp Cream of Tartar : 0.5 tsp Citric Acid

Powerful acid, suitable for preventing sugar crystallization or as a leavener component, but stronger.

Buying Guide

Store in a cool, dark, dry place in an airtight container as it can absorb moisture. Check expiry dates for optimal leavening power.

Flavor Pairings

Meringues angel food cake snickerdoodle cookies hard candy anything requiring stiff peaks.

Recipes Using Cream Of Tartar

Time To Make Desserts Preparation Main Ingredient

30 Minute Lemon Meringue Pie

Whip up this dreamy 30-Minute Lemon Meringue Pie! This quick and easy recipe delivers the classic tangy lemon filling and fluffy meringue topping you crave, all without spending hours in the kitchen. Perfect for weeknight desserts or impressive gatherings.

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Desserts Nuts Number Of Servings Course

Alton Brown's Coconut Cake With 7 Minute Frosting

Indulge in this decadent Alton Brown-inspired coconut cake! This recipe recreates the magic of his show, featuring a moist and flavorful coconut cake layered with a luscious 7-minute frosting. While Alton Brown famously makes everything from scratch, this adapted version offers flexibility for busy bakers. Discover how to achieve a less-fat version of this birthday cake masterpiece, perfect for a special celebration. Get ready to impress with this show-stopping dessert!

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Cookies And Brownies 30 Minutes Or Less Cookies And Brownies Course

Amazing Butterscotch Crispies Cookie

Get ready to experience pure cookie bliss! These Amazing Butterscotch Crispies Cookies boast an unbelievably fantastic texture, thanks to a blend of butter and oil. The rich butterscotch chips deliver a delightful sweetness, perfectly complemented by optional chocolate chips and Skor toffee bits for an extra touch of crunch. This recipe is easy to follow and delivers melt-in-your-mouth cookies that will disappear in minutes!

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Angel Cookies

These heavenly Angel Cookies are a delightful cross between melt-in-your-mouth shortbread and delicate sugar cookies! With a light, crisp texture and subtly sweet flavor, they're incredibly addictive. Prepare to be amazed as these cookies disappear faster than you can say 'recipe'! Perfect for afternoon tea, holiday gatherings, or any time you crave a touch of pure baking bliss.

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Holiday Event Dietary Weeknight Low In Something

Angel Food Cake

Fluffy, light, and heavenly! This homemade angel food cake recipe is unbelievably easy and tastes far superior to anything you'll find in the store. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this classic dessert that's surprisingly simple to make. Each bite is a cloud of delicate sweetness!

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Preparation Occasion Preparation Comfort Food

Angel Food Cake Gluten Free

Indulge in this heavenly gluten-free angel food cake! This recipe delivers a light and airy texture, perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth without compromising on taste. Unlike other gluten-free versions that deflate, this recipe uses a technique to ensure maximum rise and a stunningly beautiful cake. Made with simple ingredients and a foolproof method, this recipe is perfect for both experienced bakers and beginners. Serve it plain, or create a delightful strawberry trifle as described in the recipe. Get ready for a gluten-free dessert experience that will leave you and your guests speechless!

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Low Cholesterol Course 60 Minutes Or Less Cakes

Angel Food Cake Homemade

Experience the heavenly lightness of a homemade angel food cake! This recipe, a cherished family favorite passed down from a dear friend, delivers a melt-in-your-mouth texture and delicate sweetness that will redefine your expectations. Forget dry, disappointing angel food cakes – this one is unbelievably moist and fluffy, perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or any special occasion. Prepare to be amazed!

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Desserts Preparation Equipment Course

Angel Food Puffs Ww

Indulge in these light-as-a-feather Angel Food Puffs, each a mere 1 WW point! A delightful twist on a classic, these cookies are incredibly easy to make and incredibly customizable. Experiment with different flavored sodas for a unique taste sensation every time! Fluffy, delicious, and guilt-free – the perfect treat for your next gathering.

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Sweet Fall Number Of Servings New Years

Aunt Nelda's Sugar Cookies

Indulge in the legendary taste of Aunt Nelda's sugar cookies, a family heirloom recipe passed down through generations! These aren't your average sugar cookies; they're melt-in-your-mouth scrumptious, with a delicate texture and irresistible sweetness. Adapted from a treasured 1949 Good Housekeeping recipe, these cookies are perfect for any occasion – from family gatherings to holiday celebrations. Get ready to experience a taste of nostalgia and pure baking bliss!

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Drop Cookies Drop Cookies Course Preparation

Australian Wattleseed Oatmeal Coconut Cookies

Experience the unique taste of Australia with these delightful Wattleseed Oatmeal Coconut Cookies! Wattleseed, sourced from the Australian acacia tree, lends a captivating nutty flavor profile with hints of dark chocolate and hazelnuts. These chewy cookies combine the comforting warmth of oatmeal with the tropical sweetness of coconut, creating a truly unforgettable treat. Perfect for afternoon tea or a special occasion, this recipe is surprisingly easy to make and delivers exceptional results.

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15 Minutes Or Less Preparation High In Something Beginner Cook

Baking Mix Aka Bisquick

Make pancakes and biscuits with this healthier twist on Bisquick! This recipe uses whole wheat pastry flour and zero trans fat shortening for a higher fiber, lower fat baking mix. Adapted from the New American Diet cookbook, it's perfect for quick and easy baking, but with a nutritional boost. Get ready to enjoy fluffy pancakes and biscuits that are good for you too!

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Preparation Low Fat Course European

Banana Meringue Delight

Indulge in this heavenly Banana Meringue Delight, a kosher dessert sensation! This recipe, inspired by the Zaar World Tour '05, features a crisp meringue crust cradling a creamy banana pudding filling. Perfect for potlucks, special occasions, or a simple weeknight treat. Get ready for a taste of pure bliss!

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Low Calorie Low Saturated Fat Number Of Servings Dietary

Basic Seven Minute Frosting

Indulge in this wickedly delicious, classic Seven-Minute Frosting! This recipe, adapted from a cherished 1965 edition of Fannie Farmer's cookbook, is unbelievably easy and ready in just minutes. Perfect for cakes, cupcakes, and more, get ready for a flavor explosion that's surprisingly simple to make.

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High In Something Easy Time To Make Egg Free

Best Buttermilk Biscuits

These flaky, buttery buttermilk biscuits are a game-changer! Inspired by a Better Homes and Gardens recipe (and husband-approved!), these biscuits are so light and fluffy, you can peel them layer by layer. Perfect alongside hearty stews, soups, or even breakfast sausage. Get ready to experience biscuit perfection!

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Oven Number Of Servings Weeknight Time To Make

Best Darn Sugar Cookies Ever

These light and incredibly flavorful sugar cookies will change your mind about this classic treat! With a melt-in-your-mouth texture and irresistible sweetness, they're guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Even sugar cookie skeptics will be raving! Get ready for the best darn sugar cookies you've ever tasted!

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Course Time To Make Pies And Tarts Dietary

Best Ever Lemon Meringue Pie

Conquer lemon meringue pie with this foolproof recipe! Say goodbye to runny or rubbery disasters – this recipe delivers a light, delicate, and perfectly tangy lemon pie that's guaranteed to impress. Get ready for the most delicious, dreamy lemon meringue pie you've ever tasted!

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Preparation Course Number Of Servings Preparation

Brown Sugar Cookies

Indulge in the irresistible warmth of these classic Brown Sugar Cookies! A treasured family recipe, passed down through the years, these chewy delights are surprisingly simple to make. Get ready for the perfect balance of sweet brown sugar and soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture. (Prep time excludes chilling.)

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15 Minutes Or Less High Calcium High In Something Number Of Servings

Sweetened Condensed Milk

Save money and time with this easy recipe for homemade sweetened condensed milk! Perfect for decadent desserts and creamy homemade Irish cream liqueur. This quick recipe delivers the rich, creamy sweetness you crave, without the hefty store-bought price tag. Make it once, and you'll never buy store-bought again!

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