Short facts : A leavening agent used in baking to help it rise and become light and fluffy

Baking powder is a leavening agent commonly used in baking to help doughs and batters rise. It is a combination of an acid (such as cream of tartar) and a base (such as baking soda) along with a starch filler. When baking powder is mixed with a liquid, the acid and base react to produce carbon dioxide gas bubbles, which helps the mixture expand and rise. This results in a lighter and fluffier texture in baked goods like cakes, muffins, and biscuits. Baking powder is often used in recipes that do not contain acidic ingredients, as the acid in the baking powder provides the necessary chemical reaction for leavening.