Though some may find the following article somewhat unsettling, let’s proceed to explore it further.
In this article, we’ll learn about how long you can expect to keep your cream of tartar.
How long does cream of tartar last?
The best way to find out how long cream of tartar lasts is to purchase some on Amazon or another online retailer.
Once you have the product in hand you will want to read all labels carefully because manufacturers vary when they list “best before dates.”
This information is listed by different countries and the United States uses letters of the alphabet instead of numbers.
For example, one brand of cream of tartar states that the product has a “Best Before Date of A” while another says “Best Before Date of B”.
So, what does this mean?
If you don’t use cream of tartar until after the date listed on the label then it should still be good.
However, if you use it prior to the expiration date you could end up with an inferior product.
A third option is to purchase a year supply at once.
This will ensure that you always have plenty of cream of tartar on hand.
Does cream of tartar need to be refrigerated?
No.
You can store cream of tartar in a cool, dry location like a pantry or cabinet.
Just be sure not to let any moisture touch it.
Moisture can cause discoloration and deterioration.
What is cream of tartar used for?
Cream of tartar is a leavening agent that makes baked goods rise.
It also adds texture to dishes such as cakes and cookies.
When you add cream of tartar to a recipe you are making a quick rise bread rather than a yeast bread.
Some people think that cream of tartar is simply a substitute for commercial baking powder.
The truth is that it has more functions than just raising baked goods.
It can also be used to create a fine dusting of sugar on desserts, it can help you remove stains from fabric, and it can even be added to ice cream to give it a sweet taste.
How do you make cream of tartar?
All cream of tartar is made using cream of tartar crystals, which can be purchased at specialty stores or online retailers.
There are two ways to make cream of tartar:
- Make your own cream of tartar.
- Purchase pre-made cream of tartar.
To make your own cream of tartar you must combine equal parts cream of tartar and water.
You can either stir together the ingredients or place them into a jar of a food processor or blender.
Then, cover the mixture and shake vigorously until it looks like a thick paste.
Store it away from heat and direct sunlight.
If you want to purchase pre-made cream of tartar you can choose to purchase the following products:
- Dissolving cream of tartar
- Liquid cream of tartar
- Instant cream of tartar
- Liquid cream of tartar
- Quick rise cream of tartar
When selecting cream of tartar remember that each type has a specific purpose and you shouldn’t mix types or use them interchangeably.
For example, liquid cream of tartar is great for whipping cream, dissolving cream of tartar is perfect for adding flavor to baked goods, and quick rise cream of tartar is ideal for making quick rise breads.
Is cream of tartar the same as baking powder?
Yes and no.
Most people believe that cream of tartar is similar to baking powder since both are leaveners that are used in recipes.
Both are acidic compounds that react with the proteins found in flour to create carbon dioxide bubbles, which causes baked goods to rise.
However, there are several differences between these two products.
First off, baking powder contains bicarbonate of soda (baking soda) and cream of tartar doesn’t.
Instead, it contains only tartaric acid.
Baking powder is also more concentrated than cream of tartar and has a longer shelf life.
Where can I buy cream of tartar?
There are many places where you can purchase cream of tartar including grocery stores, drug stores, discount stores, and specialty shops.
Make sure to check the labels to see how long each product has been sitting on the shelves.
How do you store cream of tartar?
Like most things, you should store your cream of tartar in a cool, dry place.
It should remain in a sealed container so that it doesn’t absorb moisture from other foods or liquids.
Also, avoid storing it near other acids such as vinegar or lemon juice because these chemicals can react with the cream of tartar and reduce its effectiveness.
You should also keep your cream of tartar away from heat and direct sunlight.
These conditions can alter the chemical structure of cream of tartar and cause discoloration and deterioration.
What is the shelf life of cream of tartar?
Cream of tartar typically lasts for around 12 months if kept in a cool, dry place.
That means that you should plan to replace your cream of tartar every six months.
Can cream of tartar be substituted for baking soda?
Baking soda is actually a salt that is made from sodium bicarbonate.
While both salts are alkaline and function similarly, they are not interchangeable.
Cream of tartar is much stronger than baking soda because it is made from tartaric acid, whereas baking soda is made from sodium bicarbonate.
What is the difference between cream of tartar and baking powder?
While both are leavening agents, cream of tartar is a crystalline compound and baking powder is a powdered compound.
Cream of tartar is a solid, while baking powder is a powder.
Cream of tartar is made from tartaric acid, while baking powder is made from sodium bicarbonate.
Where can I buy baking soda?
Baking soda is available pretty much everywhere.
You can buy it in grocery stores, convenience stores, discount stores, and online retailers.
All you need to do is look for the word “baking” or “soda” in the name of the product.
How do you store baking soda?
Baking soda usually comes in small containers and it should be stored in a cool, dry place.
Avoid exposure to heat, humidity, and direct sunlight because these conditions can change the chemical structure of baking soda and make it deteriorate quickly.
What is the shelf life of baking soda?
Most brands of baking soda will last for around 18 months if kept in a cool, dry place.
Check the label to confirm the shelf life.
Cream of Tartar Biscuits
Equipment
- Parchment paper
- oven
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 sharp kinfe
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 teaspoons cream of tartar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon table salt
- 7 tablespoons unsalted butter cold, cut into small cubes
- 3/4 cup milk cold
- 2 tablespoons salted butter melted for brushing
Instructions
- Set aside a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Set your oven rack to the middle position but don’t turn it on yet.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt. Spread the butter pieces over the dry ingredients and blend with your fingers (the best technique is to rub your thumb against the tips of your fingers, as if making the universal sign for “money”). Continue until you have a shaggy mixture with pea-sized bits and butter flakes. Stir in the milk all at once with a fork until nearly fully combined, then turn the dough out onto a floured surface.
- Gently press the dough out into a rough 1-inch-thick rectangle with your hands (never a rolling pin), then fold in half lengthwise, turn 90 degrees, and gently press it out again. Rep five times more, lightly sprinkling the dough with more flour as needed to keep it from sticking. On the final turn, roll the dough out to a 1-inch-thick rectangle and trim the edges as straight as possible with a pastry cutter or ruler. Cut the biscuits into 8 or 10 equal pieces with a sharp knife, depending on the size you want your biscuits to be. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, close together but not touching, so they can support each other as they rise. Brush the tops with the melted butter, then place in the refrigerator to chill while the oven heats to 450o.
- When the oven is hot, place the biscuits in it and bake for 9 to 12 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed. Allow to cool slightly before serving warm or at room temperature.
Video
Nutrition
I have a true passion for cooking and experimenting with new ingredients, and I have been creating and perfecting recipes for friends and family for years.
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