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a cup of milk, apple cider vinegar, half a lemon and a jar of cream of tartar sitting on a countertop

Homemade Buttermilk Substitutes

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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 4 minutes

Equipment

  • measuring cups/ spoons
  • whisk
  • bowl

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup milk (whole milk, skim milk, or non-dairy options like soy milk, almond milk, or coconut milk)
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar (white or apple cider)

Instructions
 

  • Pour 1 cup of milk into a bowl or a large measuring cup.
  • Add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar.
  • Stir gently to combine and let the mixture sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes, until it curdles slightly.
  • Use immediately in recipes requiring buttermilk.

Notes

  • Sour Cream/Yogurt Option: Combine ¾ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt with ¼ cup milk (whole milk, skim milk, or non-dairy options). Whisk until smooth and use as a thicker buttermilk substitute.
  • Cream of Tartar Option: Mix 1 cup milk with 1 ½ teaspoons cream of tartar. Whisk thoroughly until dissolved. This option works well with both dairy and non-dairy milk.
  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before using again.
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