Buttermilk is essential for many baking recipes, giving baked goods their signature texture and providing a delicious tangy flavor.
But if you don’t have access to buttermilk, or simply want to switch things up in the kitchen, there are plenty of substitutes that can do the job just as well!
Whether following an old family recipe or trying out something new, we’ve got plenty of easy substitutes for buttermilk, many of which you probably have in your kitchen.
So let’s dive into some alternatives to regular buttermilk that every home cook should know!
The 7 BEST Replacements for Buttermilk
1. Milk and Vinegar
One of the simplest substitutes for buttermilk is milk and vinegar. Simply combine one cup of milk with one tablespoon of vinegar and let the mixture sit for 10 minutes. The vinegar will curdle the milk, creating a buttermilk-like consistency.
2. Milk and Lemon Juice
Another easy substitute for buttermilk is milk and lemon juice. Simply combine one cup of milk with one tablespoon of lemon juice and let the mixture sit for 10 minutes. The lemon juice will curdle the milk, creating a buttermilk-like consistency.
3. Plain Yogurt
Plain yogurt is an excellent substitute for buttermilk. It has a similar consistency and can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. Additionally, plain yogurt is a good source of probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that can help to improve gut health.
4. Sour Cream
Sour cream can also be used as a substitute for buttermilk. It has a slightly tangy flavor and can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. While sour cream is not as healthy as plain yogurt, it can still be a good option if you are looking for a buttermilk substitute.
5. Coconut Milk
Coconut milk is another good option for those looking for a buttermilk substitute. It has a similar consistency to cow’s milk and can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. Combine 1 cup coconut milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar.
6. Soy Milk
Soy milk is another dairy-free option that can be used as a buttermilk substitute. It has a similar consistency to cow’s milk and can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. Additionally, soy milk is a good source of protein, making it ideal for those who are looking for an alternative to cow’s milk. As with coconut milk, add 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice for every cup of soy milk.
7. Kefir
Kefir is a fermented milk product that can be used as a substitute for buttermilk. Use it in a 1:1 ratio to replace buttermilk in your recipe. Kefir can be used in a variety of dishes, from pancakes and waffles to smoothies and desserts. Try adding it to your favorite recipes for a unique flavor!
Conclusion
Hopefully this guide on buttermilk substitutes was helpful in giving you a better idea what to do if store-bought buttermilk isn’t available.
Whether you need a dairy-free alternative or just something to grab from your pantry, there are plenty of choices for substituting for buttermilk that can still yield delicious baked goods and other recipes.
Don’t be afraid to experiment! Have fun with it and take advantage of the simple substitution options mentioned here. Create something wonderful!
7 BEST Buttermilk Substitutes
Looking for a buttermilk substitute in a pinch? Don’t fear, we’ve collected the best buttermilk replacements you can find in your home right now!
Ingredients
- Milk and Vinegar
- Milk and Lemon Juice
- Plain Yogurt
- Sour Cream
- Coconut Milk
- Soy Milk
- Kefir
Instructions
- Choose a buttermilk substitute that best meets your needs.
- Replace the buttermilk in your recipe using a 1:1 ratio.
Welcome to GypsyPlate! I'm Alpana, former wordwide tour manager and professional caterer, now full time blogger. I love exploring cuisines from around the world, and my recipes have been featured on sites such as MSN, Parade, Brit + Co, CNET and AOL. You can explore my entire collection of sortable recipes in my Recipe Index or learn more about me here.
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