How to Check the Freshness of a Baking Mix

Light and fluffy baked goods begin using the freshest baking mix. Prevent fallen or flat baked goods by checking the freshness of your baking mix before using it. Baking mix containing baking powder or baking soda will degrade over time. Trying to use expired baking mix in your recipes will leave your finished goods flat. Every time you cook, test your baking mix before use to ensure success with all of your baked goods.

Things You'll Need

• 1 tsp. baking mix
• Vinegar or ½ cup hot water
• Small bowl or glass

Instructions

1. Read the ingredients on your baking mix to determine whether it contains baking soda or baking powder.

2. Test baking powder baking mix by combining 1 tsp. of baking mix with ½ cup of hot (not boiling) water in a small bowl or glass.

3. Check baking soda based mix by adding three to four drops of vinegar to 1 tsp. of baking mix in a small bowl.

4. Watch for a bubbling and foaming in both tests to indicate fresh, ready to use baking mix.

5. Discard baking mix if nothing happens one minute after combining the test ingredients.

Tips & Warnings

• Baking mixing will stay fresh for up to 18 months if kept in a cool, dry place, sealed in an air-tight container.

References

• HomeBaking.org: Ingredient Storage

Resources

• Chow.com: Homemade Baking Mix Recipe
• BettyCrocker.com: Recipes Using Baking Mix