HA
Acids

Cream of Tartar

KC₄H₅O₆ (potassium bitartrate)
Also called Crémor tartari (medieval Latin)

The mild baking acid — stabilizes egg whites, gives snickerdoodles their tang, doubles as a copper polish.

Comes as fine white powder
Common uses meringue stabilizationsnickerdoodle cookieshomemade baking powder (2:1 with baking soda)copper-pan polish (paste with vinegar)bee-sting paste
On this page baking & pH adjustment
The basics

About Cream of Tartar

What it is

Food-grade acids (citric acid, cream of tartar) play roles in baking, jam-making, and household maintenance — descaling kettles, adjusting the pH of homemade shampoos, fizzing up bath bombs.

Key thing to know about Cream of Tartar

A byproduct of winemaking — the crystals that form in wine barrels. Mixed with baking soda 2:1, it makes a clean substitute for commercial baking powder (no aluminum).

1/8 tsp per egg white for meringue; 1/4 tsp per cup sugar to prevent crystallization; equal-parts paste with water for copper

These are the most common uses for Cream of Tartar. Each card explains what to do, why it works, and what to notice.

How to use Cream of Tartar for baking and pH adjustment

Use a pinch in baking for tang, or 1 tsp per cup of water to descale or adjust pH.

Why it works for baking and pH adjustment

Food-grade acids (citric acid, cream of tartar) add tang to baked goods, set jams, descale kettles, and adjust the pH of homemade shampoos and lotions. A tiny amount goes a long way.

What you'll notice
  • Set homemade jams
  • Tang up cracker doughs
  • Descale kettles and dishwashers
  • Adjust DIY beauty product pH
  • Make bath bombs fizz

Frequently asked questions about Cream of Tartar

What is Cream of Tartar used for?+

Cream of Tartar is most often used for baking and pH adjustment. Use a pinch in baking for tang, or 1 tsp per cup of water to descale or adjust pH.

Are there any tricks to using Cream of Tartar?+

A byproduct of winemaking — the crystals that form in wine barrels. Mixed with baking soda 2:1, it makes a clean substitute for commercial baking powder (no aluminum).

What forms does Cream of Tartar come in?+

Cream of Tartar is available as fine white powder. Each form has slightly different uses — check the preparation notes for which form fits your purpose.

How do I store Cream of Tartar?+

Airtight container; lasts years if dry. Shelf life: Indefinite if dry..

Is Cream of Tartar safe for pets?+

Cream of Tartar can be used around pets with caution. Small amounts safe.

What is Cream of Tartar also called?+

Cream of Tartar is also known as Crémor tartari (medieval Latin) in traditional systems.

Where does Cream of Tartar come from?+

Wine-industry byproduct; baking aisle.

Reference notes

About Cream of Tartar

Where it comes from

Wine-industry byproduct; baking aisle.

Storage & shelf life

Shelf life: Indefinite if dry.

Airtight container; lasts years if dry.

Safety

Very safe in normal use. High doses (1 tsp+) can cause potassium imbalance — don't take medicinally.

Pet safety — With caution

Small amounts safe.

Type Acids Availability Tier 1