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Buttermilk Substitute

Buttermilk adds tang and tenderness to baked goods. Here's how to fake it when you don't have any.

6 Best Substitutes for Buttermilk

1

Milk + Lemon Juice

1 cup milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice
Classic DIY buttermilk. Stir, let sit 5-10 minutes until curdled.
2

Milk + White Vinegar

1 cup milk + 1 tbsp white vinegar
Same method as lemon. Vinegar is more neutral-tasting in final bake.
3

Yogurt + Milk

¾ cup plain yogurt + ¼ cup milk = 1 cup
Thicker consistency. Closest flavor match to real buttermilk.
4

Sour Cream + Milk

¾ cup sour cream + ¼ cup milk = 1 cup
Rich and tangy. Perfect for pancakes and biscuits.
5

Kefir

1:1
Fermented milk drink. Nearly identical to buttermilk — use exactly the same.
6

Vegan Buttermilk

1 cup plant milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice
Use soy or almond milk. Soy curdles best — most like dairy buttermilk.
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💡 Pro Tip

When substituting buttermilk, the best choice depends on what you're making. Baking is chemistry — stick to the recommended ratios. Cooking is more forgiving — feel free to experiment with amounts.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best buttermilk substitute?

The best buttermilk substitute is milk + lemon juice — classic diy buttermilk. stir, let sit 5-10 minutes until curdled.

Can I use this substitute in baking?

Most of our listed substitutes work in baking. Check the description for each option — we note which work best for baked goods vs. cooking. When baking, always follow the exact ratio given.

Is there a dairy-free buttermilk substitute?

Some of the substitutes listed above are dairy-free. Check each option's description for dietary compatibility.

How much buttermilk substitute should I use?

Each substitute listed above includes exact ratios (e.g., "1 cup milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice"). Follow these precisely for best results, especially in baking where ratios are critical.

Will the taste change if I substitute buttermilk?

Yes, the taste may change slightly depending on which substitute you use. Some (like our top pick) have a neutral flavor. Others may add subtle notes — we describe these in each substitute's details so you can choose based on your recipe.