Have you ever been in the middle of prepping the ingredients for a recipe and realized you don’t have buttermilk? There’s no need to run to the store; instead, make this easy Homemade Buttermilk Substitute in five minutes.
What Is Buttermilk Used For and Why?
The acidity of the buttermilk provides a tangy flavor to the baked goods and balances the sweetness. It also provides richness and moisture to the baked items. Buttermilk activates the baking soda, producing the gas that makes the dough or batter rise. The acidity breaks down proteins, giving the baked goods more delicate crumbs. Buttermilk is used to bake various baked goods, such as muffins, quick bread, cakes, biscuits, and more. It is also used to make pancakes and waffles because buttermilk provides a soft, fluffy, and tender texture.
Difference Between Milk And Buttermilk
Milk is a fresh dairy product, whereas buttermilk is cultured. It is fermented with lactic acid, which gives buttermilk its sourness and thickness.
About Homemade Buttermilk Substitute
I generally do not keep store-bought buttermilk in my fridge. In the nearby grocery store, I usually find a 2-liter carton, which is hard to use in a few days. So, for baking and other recipes, I like to make buttermilk substitutes. While real, cultured buttermilk is better than any substitutions, this homemade buttermilk comes together in a pinch and works successfully. It requires only two ingredients and is cost-effective. I have made tons of baking recipes successfully with this homemade buttermilk substitute. However, for the rich and creamy texture, I highly recommend using whole milk to make this buttermilk substitute. Making plant-based buttermilk is also easy! Use your choice of non-dairy milk to make this homemade buttermilk substitute.
Storing Suggestions
You can store the buttermilk in the refrigerator in an airtight glass jar or container for up to a week. However, I recommend making it as needed rather than in advance. Stir gently. Let the mixture stand at room temperature for 5 minutes. The milk will thicken and appear slightly curdled or chunky. You can use this buttermilk substitute 1-for-1 for your baking recipes.
Different Ratios For Homemade Buttermilk
More Homemade Recipes
Recipe Card
Vinegar or Lemon Juice: I prefer vinegar, but both will work. You can also use apple cider vinegar if that’s your ingredient choice. Milk Temperature: Vinegar is acidic, so when mixed with milk, it should curdle instantly. However, I have noticed that curdling depends on the temperature of the milk. If milk is cold, we need to let it stand for at least 8-10 minutes. If milk is at room temperature, it will curdle within five minutes. But if mix vinegar to slightly warm milk, it will curdle instantly. Vegan Buttermilk Substitute: You can use non-dairy milk instead of milk for a vegan buttermilk substitute. I have tried almond and cashew milk to make the buttermilk substitute successfully.
