5 Best Baking Soda Substitutes for Scones

Quick tip: May result in slightly less rise and a more neutral flavor, but generally maintains the tender crumb of scones.

Baking powder contains both an acid and a base, so it leavens by releasing carbon dioxide when moistened and heated, similar to baking soda but without needing an external acid. This makes it the most straightforward substitute in scones, which often have acidic components like buttermilk or cream.

To use baking powder successfully, increase the amount to about three times the baking soda called for, as baking powder is less potent. Watch for a slightly different texture; scones may be a bit softer and less crisp on the edges.

Compared to baking soda, baking powder produces a more balanced rise without the metallic or soapy aftertaste that can occur if baking soda is not neutralized by acid. The final scones will be tender and well-leavened, though the flavor may be less sharp.

Quick tip: Provides similar leavening without sodium, with minimal impact on flavor or texture.

Potassium bicarbonate is chemically very similar to baking soda, providing the same leavening action by releasing carbon dioxide when reacting with acids in the dough. It is often used as a low-sodium alternative.

Use it in a 1:1 ratio to baking soda. Since it lacks sodium, it won’t affect saltiness, so you may want to adjust salt levels slightly. It works best when the scone recipe contains an acidic ingredient like buttermilk.

The final scones will have a texture and rise very close to those made with baking soda, with no noticeable difference in taste or crumb.

Quick tip: Adds mild leavening and moisture but less potent, may yield denser scones with a slightly different crumb.

Club soda contains dissolved carbon dioxide gas, which can provide some leavening through trapped bubbles during baking. It also adds moisture, which can help with dough hydration.

To substitute baking soda with club soda, reduce other liquids slightly to maintain dough consistency. This method is less reliable because the leavening depends on trapped gas rather than a chemical reaction.

Scones made this way tend to be denser and less risen than those with baking soda, with a slightly different texture that may be more tender but less flaky.

Quick tip: Improves rise and lightness but changes dough structure and moisture balance.

Whipped egg whites incorporate air into the dough, providing mechanical leavening rather than chemical. This can help scones rise and become lighter.

Fold whipped egg whites gently into the dough to avoid deflating the air bubbles. This method requires careful handling and may alter the dough’s moisture and fat balance.

Scones will be lighter and more airy but may have a different crumb and slightly altered flavor due to the egg whites. This is not a direct chemical substitute but can improve texture when baking soda is unavailable.

Quick tip: Adds natural acidity and leavening but requires fermentation time and changes flavor profile.

Sourdough starter contains wild yeast and lactic acid bacteria, which provide natural leavening and acidity. This can substitute baking soda by fermenting the dough and producing gas.

Using sourdough requires longer proofing times and adjusting hydration levels. It also imparts a tangy flavor that changes the traditional scone taste.

The final product will be more rustic with a chewy texture and sour note, differing significantly from classic scones but offering a unique alternative.