I love learning simple how-to swaps for my kitchen, like how to make your own Vanilla Extract, How to Ripen Bananas, or make some Playdough for the kids.
Buttermilk Substitute:
Any of these options will work great in a recipe, just pick the best one for you based on what you have in your pantry and fridge.
1 cup buttermilk = 1 Tablespoon white vinegar + enough milk to measure 1 cup 1 cup buttermilk = 1 Tablespoon lemon juice + enough milk to measure 1 cup 1 cup buttermilk = 1 cup plain yogurt 1 cup buttermilk = 1 and ¾ teaspoon cream of tartar + 1 cup of milk
How to make Buttermilk:
For the vinegar option, simply pour 1 Tablespoon vinegar into a measuring cup for 1 cup, then fill the rest of the cup with milk. Carefully stir the mixture then let it sit for 5 minutes. If you don’t have vinegar, check out other easy alternatives above.
Dairy Free & Vegan Substitute:
Instead of dairy milk, use coconut milk or soy milk. Just add 1 Tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice to a 1 cup measuring cup, then fill the rest of the way with coconut or soy milk. Stir and let sit for 5 minutes before using in a recipe.
Buttermilk Freezing Instructions:
Buttermilk freezes great for up to 3 months. You could even pour in an ice cube tray so it’s easy to use small amounts as needed.
Use Buttermilk In:
Buttermilk Pancakes Buttermilk Cornbread Buttermilk Biscuits Skillet Cornbread Ranch Dressing Homemade Pancake Syrup Cinnamon Roll Biscuits Hershey’s Chocolate Cake Cannoli Cake Lemon Blueberry Pancakes English Muffins
I originally shared this recipe March 2019. Updated August 2024.
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