The reaction of alcohols with oxocarboxylates to form acetals or ketals is catalyzed by unexpectedly low levels of protic acids. By employing low acid catalyst levels compared to amounts conventionally used, rapid formation of acetal or ketal is facilitated while the formation of oxocarboxylate esters is minimized. Further employing a significant molar excess of oxocarboxylate in conjunction with low acid catalyst level gives rise to the rapid and clean formation of acetals and ketals from oxocarboxylates and alcohols.