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Buttermilk Substitute

Buttermilk brings acid, which reacts with baking soda for lift and tenderises gluten. Any substitute needs that acid.

Milk + lemon juice1 tbsp lemon juice + 1 cup milk, to fill to the lineStir and rest 5–10 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Milk + white vinegar1 tbsp white vinegar + 1 cup milk, to fill to the lineSame method as lemon; flavour is more neutral.
Yogurt + milk¾ cup plain yogurt + ¼ cup milkClosest in thickness. Whisk smooth.
Milk + cream of tartar1 ¾ tsp cream of tartar + 1 cup milkWhisk the cream of tartar into a little milk first so it doesn’t clump.

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Answers come from an AI model and may be imperfect; for allergies, always check labels.

Questions cooks ask

What is the best substitute for buttermilk?

Milk + lemon juice: 1 tbsp lemon juice + 1 cup milk, to fill to the line per 1 cup. Stir and rest 5–10 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Why does buttermilk matter in a recipe?

Buttermilk brings acid, which reacts with baking soda for lift and tenderises gluten. Any substitute needs that acid.