Best Buttermilk Substitutes
Out of buttermilk? These are the best buttermilk substitutes you can use in cooking and baking — ranked by how well they work in most recipes. Whether you need a dairy-free swap, a pantry staple alternative, or just ran out mid-recipe, one of these 5 options will have you covered.
Buttermilk Substitution Options
Whole Milk + 1 tbsp White Vinegar or Lemon Juice
Use instead of Buttermilk
Stir, then let sit for 5–10 minutes until slightly curdled. This "quick buttermilk" replicates the acidity and tenderness that buttermilk provides in baking — pancakes, cakes, biscuits, and fried chicken marinades.
Oat Milk + 1 tbsp Lemon Juice
Use instead of Buttermilk
The same technique works with plant-based milks. Oat milk curdles slightly and provides a neutral, creamy base. Let it sit 5 minutes before using. Works well in dairy-free pancakes, quick breads, and cakes.
¾ cup Plain Yogurt + ¼ cup Milk
Use instead of Buttermilk
Thin plain yogurt with milk to reach buttermilk's consistency. It has the same acidity and tang — a 1:1 swap in any baking recipe. Use full-fat yogurt for best results.
Kefir
Use instead of Buttermilk
Kefir is a fermented milk drink with a similar tangy flavor and liquid consistency to buttermilk. Use 1:1 — it activates baking soda and tenderizes gluten exactly the way buttermilk does.
Sour Cream, thinned with 2 tbsp milk
Use instead of Buttermilk
Thin sour cream with milk until it reaches a pourable consistency. It has the same acidity and fat content as buttermilk. Works perfectly in baking, marinades, and dressings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best substitute for buttermilk?
The best substitutes for buttermilk are Whole Milk + 1 tbsp White Vinegar or Lemon Juice, Oat Milk + 1 tbsp Lemon Juice, ¾ cup Plain Yogurt + ¼ cup Milk. Stir, then let sit for 5–10 minutes until slightly curdled. This "quick buttermilk" replicates the acidity and tenderness that buttermilk provides in baking — pancakes, cakes, biscuits, and fried chicken marinades.
Can I use Oat Milk + 1 tbsp Lemon Juice instead of buttermilk?
The same technique works with plant-based milks. Oat milk curdles slightly and provides a neutral, creamy base. Let it sit 5 minutes before using. Works well in dairy-free pancakes, quick breads, and cakes.
How do I substitute buttermilk in baking?
When substituting buttermilk in baking, it's important to match the ratio carefully. Check the individual substitution notes above for exact measurements and tips for each swap.