Easy Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipes Without Baking Soda

Have you ever found yourself in a pinch when it comes to baking cookies but your baking soda is all out? Not to worry! There are several substitute options available, one of which is using triple the amount of baking powder. In this guide, we will explore how to make delicious chocolate chip cookies using just baking powder, alongside some expert tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly.

Understanding Baking Powder

Baking powder is often used in baking as a leavening agent, which means it helps cookies rise. This is achieved through the chemical reaction between the baking powder and acidic ingredients, resulting in the release of gases that make the cookies fluffy. Interestingly, baking powder is already a mixture of baking soda and other ingredients like cream of tartar, which helps with the leavening process.

Recipe 1: Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies (Baking Powder Substitute)

To make these chocolate chip cookies without baking soda, you can triple the amount of baking powder in your recipe. Here's a simple and straightforward recipe that you can try at home:

Ingredients

1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened (browned for a richer flavor if desired) 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar 2 tsp (10ml) pure vanilla extract 1 egg 1/2 tsp (2.5g) salt 1 1/4 cups (140g) all-purpose flour 1 cup (170g) chocolate chips Coarse salt for sprinkling if desired

Method

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugars until the mixture is fluffy. Add the vanilla and egg, and beat until well combined. Gradually add the salt, then mix in the flour in small amounts, until just incorporated. Stir in the chocolate chips. Scoop the dough onto cookie sheets, ensuring there is enough space between each cookie to allow for the expansion during baking. Decorate the tops with a sprinkle of coarse salt. Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 8-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the cookies are still soft in the center. Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Recipe 2: Dark Chocolate Chip Cookies (Baking Powder Substitute)

For a richer flavor, consider using dark chocolate chips in these chocolate chip cookies. The slight bitterness of the dark chocolate complements the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.

Ingredients

1 stick (113g) unsalted butter, browned if desired 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar 2 tsp (10ml) pure vanilla extract 1 egg 1/2 tsp (2.5g) kosher salt 1 1/4 cups (140g) all-purpose flour 1 cup (170g) dark chocolate chips Coarse salt for sprinkling if desired

Method

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugars until the mixture is fluffy. Add the vanilla and egg, and beat until well combined. Gradually add the salt, then mix in the flour in small amounts, until just incorporated. Stir in the chocolate chips. Scoop the dough onto cookie sheets, ensuring there is enough space between each cookie to allow for the expansion during baking. Decorate the tops with a sprinkle of coarse salt. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the cookies are still soft in the center. Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Understanding the Substitution

Using baking powder in place of baking soda in cookies is an effective method due to the leavening reaction. However, it's important to control the amount, as too much can yield a bitter taste. Always triple the baking powder based on the appropriate amount of baking soda in the recipe. This ensures the cookies still rise adequately without overpowering the flavors.

Conclusion

Whether you prefer a classic or a dark chocolate twist, these chocolate chip cookie recipes offer a quick and easy way to satisfy your cookie cravings without baking soda. Sprinkle some coarse salt on top for an extra touch of flavor and enjoy the process of baking these delightful treats!