Leavening makes baked goods rise. Baking soda needs acid to activate, while baking powder contains its own acid. Yeast is a living organism that ferments sugars. Understanding these differences prevents flat cakes and dense breads.
Essential Tips
Test baking powder by adding to hot water - it should bubble vigorously
Baking soda starts working immediately - don't delay baking
Yeast is killed above 120°F - use lukewarm liquids
Don't substitute baking soda for baking powder 1:1
Recipes with Leavening Agents
All recipes
Chocolate Fudge Brownies
Rich, fudgy, and deeply chocolatey — these easy chocolate fudge brownies are a classic treat for any occasion.
20 minutes25-30 minutes min total
Macaron Recipe with Chocolate Ganache & Jam
Master Italian meringue macarons at home with this recipe featuring dark chocolate ganache and a sweet strawberry jam centre. Elegant, crisp, and delicious.
45 minutes (plus resting)12-14 minutes min total
Classic Lemon Drizzle Loaf
Bake this classic lemon drizzle loaf with a soft crumb and bright citrus glaze — a comforting British favourite perfect for any season.
20 minutes45-50 minutes min total
Last-Minute Festive Bakes
Running out of time but still want something homemade and festive? These easy last-minute bakes come together quickly, and ends with a lemon bar recipe.
20 minutes45-50 minutes min total
Jam Thumbprint Cookies Recipe
These buttery jam thumbprint cookies are easy to make, wonderfully festive, and perfect for holiday gifting. A soft, tender crumb and jewel-like jam centres make them a Christmas favourite.
20 minutes (plus chill time 30 minutes)12-14 minutes min total
Spiced Orange Cranberry Bundt Cake Recipe
A beautifully spiced Christmas Bundt cake made with orange zest and dried cranberries. Easy to bake and perfect for your Nordic Ware Heritage Bundt pan.
20 minutes50-55 minutes min total
Last-Minute Christmas Cupcakes
Need a fast and festive treat? These Christmas cupcakes with green frosting are the perfect last-minute bake — soft, simple, and full of holiday cheer.
20 minutes18-20 minutes min total
Sablé Viennois: Fast, Festive Rosette Biscuits
These buttery Sablé Viennois rosettes are easy, elegant, and ideal for last-minute Christmas baking. Light, piped biscuits with a melt-in-the-mouth texture.
20 minutes12-15 minutes min total
Cranberry Pistachio Biscotti with Orange Zest Recipe
Festive cranberry pistachio biscotti recipe bursting with orange zest and Christmas colours. Crunchy, elegant, and ideal for gifting.
25 minutes45 minutes (total, in 2 rounds) min total