I dare you to taste a tiny pinch of your creation. Seriously, go for it. You’ll get a slight salty, metallic zing from the baking powder. That’s normal! It’s not supposed to be a snack on its own—it’s a delivery system for buttermilk and butter and joy.
If it tastes super bitter or weird, check your baking powder. Is it expired? Baking powder loses its oomph after about 6 months. If it’s old, your self-rising flour won’t rise, and your dreams will fall flat. So do a quick test: put a teaspoon of your mix in a bowl and add hot water. If it fizzes like a science fair volcano, you’re golden.
No fizz? Run to the store for fresh baking powder. Sorry, friend—no shortcuts on that one.
