How to Make Buttermilk

By Lauren MiyashiroUpdated: Jul 1, 2020

Approved by the Delish Test Kitchen

3.7

3 Ratings

Kat Wirsing

Yields:

1 c.

Prep Time:

5 mins

Total Time:

15 mins

Jump to recipe

Real talk: Buttermilk is an annoying ingredient. You hardly ever need it, it's only sold in a huge carton, and the recipe never calls for that much. Luckily, you can make your own in a few different ways.

Our Three Favorite Substitutes:

Milk + lemon juice (or vinegar)
Yogurt + water (or milk)
Sour cream + water (or milk)

How To Use It:

Use your substitution concoction just as you would actual buttermilk, cup for cup! Some of our favorite buttermilk recipes: fluffy pancakes, homemade biscuits, red velvet cake, and blueberry scones. It's also great for brining chicken before deep-frying.

Have you tried any of these buttermilk substitutes? Let us know how it went in the comment below.

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Ingredients

Milk + Lemon Juice

1 cup
milk
1 Tbsp.
fresh lemon juice or vinegar

Yogurt + Water

1 cup
plain whole milk yogurt
1/3 cup
water (or milk)

Sour Cream + Water

1/2 cup
sour cream
1/2 cup
water

Directions

Milk + Lemon Juice
1. Step 1In a glass measuring cup, mix together milk and lemon juice. Let stand 10 minutes or until thickened.
2. Step 2Use as you would buttermilk.
Yogurt + Water
1. Step 1In a small bowl, whisk together yogurt and water until combined.
2. Step 2Use as you would buttermilk.
Sour Cream + Water
1. Step 1In a small bowl, whisk together sour cream and water until combined.
2. Step 2Use as you would buttermilk.