Ingredient substitute

What can you use instead of buttermilk?

Milk + lemon juice (1 cup + 1 tbsp), Kefir and Powdered buttermilk + water are the easiest swaps. Below: 6 options with the right amount to use, what changes in the dish and which diets they suit.

The quick answer

Milk + lemon juice (1 cup + 1 tbsp). Use the same amount. Let sit 5–10 min until curdled.

Adjust: Any acid works — lemon, vinegar, or cream of tartar.

Milk + lemon juice (1 cup + 1 tbsp)
Drop-in swap

Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

Let sit 5–10 min until curdled.

Flavor
Tangy like buttermilk.

Texture
Same thickness when soured.

Moisture
Same.

Adjust
Any acid works — lemon, vinegar, or cream of tartar.

Best for
Pancakes, Biscuits, Marinades, Any baking
Kefir
Drop-in swap

Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

Slightly thinner than buttermilk, same tang.

Flavor
Tangy, effervescent.

Texture
Pourable, smooth.

Moisture
Same.

Adjust
Best fermented swap. Use plain only.

Best for
Any buttermilk use
Powdered buttermilk + water
Drop-in swap

Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

Follow package. Pantry-stable.

Flavor
Identical.

Texture
Identical.

Moisture
Per package.

Adjust
Great pantry backup. Stores for months.

Best for
Any recipe
Yogurt (plain, thinned)
Drop-in swap

Use ¾ of the amount (ratio 3:4)

Mix 3/4 cup yogurt + 1/4 cup milk/water.

Flavor
Tangy.

Texture
Same.

Moisture
Same when thinned.

Adjust
Thin to buttermilk consistency before using.

Best for
Any recipe calling for buttermilk
Sour cream + milk
Drop-in swap

Use ½ of the amount (ratio 1:2)

Mix 1/3 cup sour cream + 2/3 cup milk.

Flavor
Tangy.

Texture
Richer than buttermilk.

Moisture
Same.

Adjust
Let sit 5 min after mixing.

Best for
Any buttermilk recipe
Coconut milk + lemon juice
Small adjustment

Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

Vegan option. Let sit 5 min to curdle.

Flavor
Coconut + sour.

Texture
Creamy.

Moisture
Same.

Adjust
Shake milk well before measuring.

Best for
Vegan pancakes, Vegan muffins

vegan · dairy free

Common questions

What is the best substitute for buttermilk?

Milk + lemon juice (1 cup + 1 tbsp) is the closest swap. Use the same amount. Let sit 5–10 min until curdled.

What is a vegan substitute for buttermilk?

Good vegan options are Coconut milk + lemon juice.

What is a dairy-free substitute for buttermilk?

Good dairy-free options are Coconut milk + lemon juice.

How much should I use instead of buttermilk?

It depends on the swap. Milk + lemon juice (1 cup + 1 tbsp): Use the same amount. Kefir: Use the same amount. Powdered buttermilk + water: Use the same amount.