Why is ammonium phosphate in cookies? The science of crispiness
                                
                                
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                                    4 min read                                
                            
                                For centuries, bakers have used a leavening agent known as "baker's ammonia" to achieve extra crisp and airy results. Today, that very same functional compound, a food-grade ammonium phosphate, is purposefully added to many commercial cookies to achieve a signature light and porous texture.