The Science of Rising
Ever wondered how a runny batter turns into a fluffy cake? It is all about BUBBLES. Tiny bubbles of gas get trapped in the batter, then the heat makes them grow!
Baking soda: the fizzy one
Baking soda makes bubbles when it meets something sour (an acid) like buttermilk, yogurt or lemon juice. It is the same reaction as a baking-soda volcano!
Baking powder: soda with a buddy
Baking powder is baking soda with its acid already mixed in. Add water and heat and it makes bubbles all by itself.
Yeast: tiny living helpers
Yeast is a teeny living thing (a fungus!). It eats sugar and burps out carbon dioxide gas. That is what makes bread dough rise. Yes, bread rises from yeast burps!
Whipped air
When you beat butter and sugar together or whisk egg whites, you are pushing air bubbles into them. More air = lighter cake.
Try it! Bubble experiment
With a grown-up, put 1 teaspoon of baking soda in a cup. Add a splash of vinegar. Watch it fizz! Those bubbles are carbon dioxide, the same gas that lifts your cupcakes.
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