Does xanthan gum make things rise? Can I use baking powder instead of xanthan gum?

Xanthan gum does not have any leavening properties and will not cause things to rise. Xanthan gum is a food additive that is commonly used as a thickening agent and stabilizer.

Common leavening agents include baking powder, baking soda, and yeast. These ingredients produce gas (usually carbon dioxide) as they react with other ingredients in the dough or batter, which helps to lighten and aerate the finished product.

If you are looking to use a leavening agent in a recipe that calls for xanthan gum, you may be able to use baking powder or baking soda as a substitute.

However, it is important to keep in mind that these ingredients will have different properties and may affect the texture and flavour of the finished product in different ways.

It is a good idea to pay attention to the finished product and make any necessary adjustments to achieve the desired texture and flavour.