Does baking powder lose its potency over a period of time?
Yes. If you are one of those people who only bakes for holidays or other special occasions, it might be a good idea to check your baking powder before using it. If an expiration date is not stamped on the can, a simple experiment will tell you if the baking powder is still active. Pour 1/4 cup hot tap water over 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder. If the baking powder is fresh, the mixture should bubble. The fresher the baking powder, the more active the bubbles. If no reaction occurs or if the bubbles are weak, the baking powder is not strong enough to raise whatever you are planning to bake.
