Out of Buttermilk? Try These 4 Easy Swaps
Run out of buttermilk mid-recipe? No worries. We've got 4 tried-and-tested substitutes that actually work. Whether you're making a quick weeknight dinner or baking something special, these alternatives will save your dish. The most popular swap is milk + lemon juice, which works great in both cooking and baking. Each substitute below includes exact measurements and tips so you know exactly what to do.
⚡ Quick Answer (30 sec read)
Use Milk + Lemon Juice instead. 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice. Let sit 5 min.
✅ 4 Tested Buttermilk Substitutes (With Exact Ratios)
1. Milk + Lemon Juice
Baking1 cup milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice. Let sit 5 min.
2. Milk + Vinegar
Baking1 cup milk + 1 tbsp white vinegar. Let sit 5 min.
3. Plain Yogurt + Milk
Both3/4 cup yogurt + 1/4 cup milk. Mix well.
4. Sour Cream + Milk
Baking3/4 cup sour cream + 1/4 cup milk.
Tips for Substituting Buttermilk
When substituting buttermilk in baking, always consider how the swap affects moisture, fat content, and flavor. Start with the exact ratios given, then adjust in future batches if needed. For best results, bring refrigerated substitutes to room temperature before mixing.
What NOT to Do When Substituting Buttermilk
- xDon't use the same amount without checking the ratio - some substitutes are stronger or weaker than buttermilk.
- xDon't substitute in recipes where buttermilk is the star ingredient - the difference will be too noticeable.
- xDon't combine multiple substitutes at once - pick one and adjust from there.
Quick Substitution Ratios
| Substitute | Amount for 1 cup Buttermilk | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Milk + Lemon Juice | 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice | baking |
| Milk + Vinegar | 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp white vinegar | baking |
| Plain Yogurt + Milk | 3/4 cup yogurt + 1/4 cup milk | both |
| Sour Cream + Milk | 3/4 cup sour cream + 1/4 cup milk | baking |
Safety Tips
- 1.Always check for allergies - if someone is allergic to buttermilk, they may also react to certain substitutes like nut-based alternatives.
- 2.When baking, substitutes can affect rising and texture. Test with a small batch first if making for an important occasion.
- 3.Check expiration dates on substitutes - using fresh ingredients ensures the best flavor and food safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best substitute for buttermilk?
The best substitute for buttermilk is Milk + Lemon Juice. 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice. Let sit 5 min. This works well in most recipes that call for buttermilk.
Can I use milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, milk + lemon juice is an excellent substitute for buttermilk. 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice. Let sit 5 min.
What can I use instead of buttermilk in baking?
For baking, the best buttermilk substitutes are: Milk + Lemon Juice, Milk + Vinegar, Plain Yogurt + Milk. These options will give you similar results in cakes, cookies, and other baked goods.
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