35+ Delicious Buttermilk Recipes

Buttermilk is known for its distinctive sour or “tangy” flavor and is an essential ingredient in many recipes.

Most of us don’t keep buttermilk in the fridge all the time, and you can even have buttermilk powder on hand for the occasional recipe that calls for this distinctive ingredient. If you do have some buttermilk, you’re probably looking for some great recipes so that you can use it up.

This popular ingredient has a long history and was even considered sacred to ancient Egyptians, who used it as a skin treatment and for lotions and shampoos.

Nowadays, you’ll find buttermilk recipes that use the ingredient to sweeten up and add additional flavor to classic dishes.

Freshly baked buttermilk southern biscuits or scones from scratch with rolling pin and basting brush on a baking sheet.

Buttermilk, a versatile and tangy ingredient, has long been a staple in various delectable recipes. From the traditional buttermilk pancakes and biscuits to enriching salad dressings and marinating meats, buttermilk has secured its place in culinary history.

A byproduct of butter-making, buttermilk possesses a unique flavor profile that lends itself to enhancing both sweet and savory dishes. Its acidity not only tenderizes proteins but also acts as a leavening agent when combined with baking soda. As a result, baked goods made with buttermilk are known for their soft, fluffy textures and delightful taste.

To embark on your buttermilk recipe journey, we will be sharing some mouth-watering recipes that span from breakfast to dessert. These recipes have been carefully selected for their ease of preparation and use of readily available ingredients, ensuring an enjoyable and stress-free experience in the kitchen.

Recipes using buttermilk can include pancakes, waffles, cornbread, and more.

You don’t have to guess what to make with buttermilk because these recipes will help you get started.

So quit worrying about what to do with buttermilk because you’re about to have so many recipes that you won’t be able to know where to start.

It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for something light or heavy, there are plenty of things to make with buttermilk.

Wow your next guests with these 33 easy buttermilk recipes that are sure to please any palate.

Source: alexandracooks.com

1. Buttermilk Blueberry Breakfast Cake

Nothing will crumble into your mouth quite as well as this buttermilk blueberry breakfast cake.

The flavors and texture are too good just to have one. Make a large batch of these because you’ll want several.

Source: restlesschipotle.com

2. Homemade Buttermilk

The first place to start when wondering “What can I make with buttermilk?” is making the traditional buttermilk itself.

Sure, you can buy some from a store, but nothing will beat the fresh taste of homemade buttermilk.

So if you’re all about keeping things natural and homemade, then this is something for you to try.

You’ll need good quality whole milk and skim milk with a small amount of white vinegar or fresh lemon juice as a curdling agent.

Let the mixture sit at room temperature for 24 hours, then strain the milk into a jar or container.

You’ll get about 1 cup of buttermilk which you can use in all sorts of recipes.

You can essentially make a big jar so that you can have some leftover buttermilk for future recipes that you want to make.

Source: theladybehindthecurtain.com

3. Buttermilk Oatmeal Muffins

Breakfast is never easier than making some buttermilk oatmeal muffins.

They are good and hearty, so you can get your nutrition in before even getting to work.

Source: delishably.com

4. Cracker Barrel Pancakes

The famous Cracker Barrel fluffy buttermilk pancakes can be made right at home with ingredients that you probably already have.

Start by making a basic pancake batter as you normally would, then add 1/4 cup of buttermilk for every cup of milk used.

The buttermilk pancake will make a lighter and fluffier meal than a typical pancake.

You don’t have to leave home to have these classic pancakes and your family will thank you for them.

Source: blueprintnutrition.ca

5. Buttermilk Scones

Scones with buttermilk are a lighter treat that will leave you feeling full without the sugar rush.

It’s simple to make and you can sprinkle in some dried fruit or chocolate chips for an extra delicious treat.

Source: simplyrecipes.com

6. Buttermilk Waffles

Instead of going with the classic pancake, try a buttermilk waffle.

They are ridiculously easy to make, so the only thing you need to do is decide whether or not you want to put some effort into your toppings.

What’s great about waffles is that you can throw on any toppings you want and they will still taste good.

Chocolate, fruit, caramel, pretty much anything goes when it comes to waffles.

Serve up a batch of these on a weekend when you have time and your family will wonder how you made them so good.

Serve it with some classic syrup or have it straight and it will still be just as good. Just make sure there’s some homemade butter on the table.

Source: bakingwithbutter.com

7. Buttermilk Donuts

Donuts are a classic that can be eaten any time of the day and by adding some buttermilk you’ll get an entirely new flavor.

Donuts are a great way to use buttermilk too because you can make them in a ton of different ways and they’ll still taste great.

Source: thekitchn.com

8. Buttermilk Coleslaw

Coleslaw is one of those dishes that can have a million different variations, so it’s a safe bet that you’ll always have something healthy to serve for dinner.

You can use a store-bought buttermilk dressing or whip up a homemade version in just minutes to save yourself some time.

The best thing about coleslaw is you can serve it with practically anything and it will still taste good.

Plus, this is one of those recipes that you can make with a lot of the same ingredients as other popular dishes, so having to buy a lot of stuff isn’t necessary.

Source: wonkywonderful.com

9. Buttermilk Cake

You’ll never bite into a cake quite as fluffy as one made with buttermilk.

You can even add buttermilk to the frosting to give it that extra hint of tangy goodness.

Source: ourbestbites.com

10. Buttermilk Ice Cream

Ice cream can be even better by adding a little bit of buttermilk to the mix to make a rich and creamy treat.

It’s pretty simple to make, you’ll just need a few ingredients and your ice cream maker.

You can use vanilla extract or infuse it with fruit like strawberries for a fun twist on this cool dessert.

If you’re used to making homemade ice cream then you already know that there are always ways to make it tastier, but the buttermilk is an old-fashioned flavor that will take your ice cream back in time.

It may seem like a strange ingredient, but trust us when we say that this is one recipe that you’ll want to save for later.

Source: italianbellavita.com

11. Buttermilk Fried Green Tomatoes

Fried green tomatoes have never looked this good when you add a bit of buttermilk to the batter.

They are richer in taste and that matches perfectly with the tangy tomato flavor.

Source: thecountrycook.net

12. Buttermilk Biscuits

Biscuits are one of the best dishes to make with buttermilk because it takes this farmhouse classic to a whole new level.

They’re flaky, fluffy, and most importantly taste even better with a little bit of butter on top.

Once you’ve mastered a buttermilk biscuit then you’ll be able to put your own spin on it by adding things like cheese or jalapenos for a tasty twist that will leave your family asking for more.

You can take your time by baking a big batch or whipping one up in the morning to take with you on the go.

Just don’t be surprised when people start requesting these buttermilk biscuits for dinner instead of regular bread.

They’re that good.

Source: justapinch.com

13. Fried Okra

This classic southern side goes perfectly with buttermilk because the okra has a bitter green taste.

Mixed with the buttermilk, it really starts to sing with flavor and you’ll be grabbing it by the handful.

Source: thejoyfilledkitchen.com

14. Overnight Cinnamon Rolls

Cinnamon rolls are already sweet and delicious but when you add some tangy buttermilk to the mix it takes everything to a whole new level.

These go from being homemade cinnamon rolls that have great flavor, to being something you’ll want to eat every day.

The best part is that these baked goods are so easy to make and will keep in the fridge for up to two weeks, so just pop one in the microwave whenever you get a craving for something sweet.

It’s not the cheapest dough to make, but this is one recipe that you can feel good about making because of how much it will improve your day.

Have these in the morning with a cup of coffee or give them to the kids before school.

They go really well with savory food like bacon to balance all that sweetness.

Source: asouthernsoul.com

15. Buttermilk Pound Cake

When pound cake is this soft with the added buttermilk it goes even better with the glaze on top.

It’s easy to see just how fast the entire cake can go when you take your first bite.

Source: tasteofhome.com

16. Buttermilk Brownies

If you thought brownies couldn’t be any better then you haven’t tried these buttermilk brownies.

They’re moist, chewy, and have a rich chocolate flavor that will make you want more of this sweet treat.

You can make it even better by adding some homemade strawberry or raspberry jam between the layers for a layered dessert that’s sure to impress anyone who tries one of your brownies.

Add some nuts on top if you want a little more texture to your browny but either way, they are delicious.

If you really want to take the chocolate to the next level, try adding some chocolate frosting on top of your brownies.

You’ll barely be able to breathe without a cup of almond milk next to you.

Source: howtofeedapickyeater.com

17. Strawberry Buttermilk Crepes

Crepes made with buttermilk are a lot easier to make than you might think.

It’s a light and fluffy recipe that will have you eating them all day long.

The strawberry sauce gives it an extra hint of sweetness so they’re even more irresistible.

Source: recipefairy.com

18. Cracker Barrel Fried Chicken

If you’re still wondering what can you make with buttermilk this classic Cracker Barrel Fried Chicken is the perfect start.

It’s so easy to make this recipe your own by adding some of the spices you like the most or even mixing them up with a few different kinds of chicken.

Try using chicken thighs to give it an extra savory flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

This is one meal that’s sure to be a hit with everyone, even your pickiest eaters.

Source: whatscookingamerica.net

19. Crème Fraîche

Creme fraiche is a type of thick and creamy sauce that can be used for a variety of recipes.

It might not sound all that appetizing but it’s a perfect substitute if you’re looking for something healthier than sour cream.

Source: saveur.com

20. Chilled Buttermilk Soup

This isn’t something you’d probably come up with on your own but once you try it you’ll be glad that you did.

This soup is refreshing and perfect for a warm day, but it’s also light enough to enjoy on a hot summer night.

The best part about this dish is how easy it is to make; all you have to do is combine the ingredients in your blender.

It may sound simple but that’s what makes this recipe so good.

You really can’t go wrong with these flavors, so don’t be surprised if your family asks for you to keep making this throughout the month.

Source: bonappetit.com

21. Buttermilk Shake

What more can you want than a buttermilk shake that’s thick and creamy?

A lot of shakes at fast food places are way too sugary but this homemade version is much more balanced.

Plus, you can top it off with whipped cream and some cookie crumbles to really make it even better.

Source: cdkitchen.com

22. Buttermilk Onion Rings

Onion rings are already filled with flavor if you get the batter right by trying to add some buttermilk to the mix.

These rings are crispy and delicious, which is always a plus in our book.

You can get creative with this recipe by switching things up and adding other flavors like garlic or jalapenos for a kick of spice.

No onion ring is complete without making some homemade ketchup or remoulade sauce for dipping.

Source: cannellevanille.com

23. Lemon Buttermilk Sherbet

This lemon buttermilk sherbet is definitely refreshing and goes well with summertime meals.

The tangy lemon will go perfectly with the creamy buttermilk to satisfy your sweet tooth.

You can even add a little bit of sugar if you need it to be more on the sweet side before freezing it up.

Source: cafedelites.com

24. Buttermilk Cornbread

Cornbread is already fluffy but when you add some buttermilk you’ll never want to have another cornbread recipe again.

You can get creative with this recipe by adding in some cheddar cheese, jalapenos, or even bacon bits for an extra savory flavor.

No matter how you eat it, buttermilk cornbread is so good that it will be gone in minutes.

Source: thesemisweetsisters.com

25. Buttermilk Sugar Cookies

The only way to make sugar cookies even more delicious is by adding a little bit of buttermilk.

This is the perfect recipe for any occasion as you’ll end up with a batch that’s soft and chewy.

If you want to kick it up even more, try adding some vanilla or lemon extract to your dough.

Source: spicedblog.com

26. Southern Buttermilk Chess Pie

A chess pie is basically a custard pie with some extra sugar to sweeten it up.

This buttermilk chess pie is unlike any other recipe though because of how creamy the filling is on your fork.

It’s almost too good to resist, but don’t worry you can always make another one next time you have a craving for something sweet.

Add some vanilla ice cream on top of this pie to kick up the flavor a notch and make it even more delicious.

Source: africanbites.com

27. Texas Sheet Cake

This Texas Sheet Cake is almost like a brownie but with a gooey buttermilk frosting on top.

It’s one of those buttermilk recipe ideas that you’ll keep making time and time again.

The cake itself is decadent and delicious on its own, but adding the extra layer of sweetness makes it even more irresistible.

Don’t be surprised if you make this recipe again before the week is up.

Better yet, just make a big ol’ batch at first and then have some throughout the next week.

Source: 100krecipes.com

28. Chicken and Dumplings

When the weather starts bringing in the cold you need a warm dish to feed the family and this chicken and dumplings with buttermilk recipe is perfect.

The savory chicken goes perfectly with the tenderness of the dumpling.

Really, there’s nothing better than a comfort food dish that has been passed down through generations and this one is no exception.

This recipe takes a little work but it’s worth every second once you taste the final product.

Don’t be surprised if your family asks for this meal again.

Source: thefoodcharlatan.com

29. Buttermilk Ranch Dressing

Need the perfect side dipping sauce but the ranch is a little too tangy?

Try out this more balanced version with added buttermilk.

You’ll end up buying ingredients purely for the purpose of dipping when you make this ranch dressing homemade.

Source: kitchenchanted.com

30. Buttermilk Fudge Recipe

You need a dessert to go with your delicious meals and this fudge is only enhanced with some buttermilk added to it.

The flavors are so good that you’ll need to sneak a few bites before this treat even hits the table.

Make sure you make plenty because everyone will want a couple of pieces.

Source: thecafesucrefarine.com

31. Caramel Buttermilk Cake

What better way to make a more fluffy and delicious cake than by adding some buttermilk?

It’s the perfect way to give your cake a creamy texture that will have everybody begging for more. The caramel on top adds a flavor that will please the sweetest of teeth.

Top off this heavenly goodness with some fresh fruit, chocolate syrup, or caramel sauce to really push it over the top.

Source: epicurioius.com

32. Lemon Buttermilk Ice

Not quite ice cream, this lemon buttermilk ice recipe is sure to be a hit with everyone in your family.

We love adding fruit flavors and buttermilk is the perfect addition to this dish.

Top it off with some fresh berries or chocolate syrup for an added touch.

Source: saladinajar.com

33. Buttermilk Bread

You won’t find softer bread than one that is made with some buttermilk.

You don’t need a ton of ingredients to make this bread and it’s one of the best recipes if you like to make your own food from scratch.

You can skip all of the preservatives and additives that can be found in store-bought items and just use simple ingredients to get a soft loaf of bread.

Don’t forget about some fresh butter or jam to go on top.

Freshly baked buttermilk southern biscuits or scones from scratch with rolling pin and basting brush on a baking sheet.

35+ Delicious Buttermilk Recipes (+Homemade Buttermilk Coleslaw)

These recipes are sure to please. So, gather your family and friends and enjoy. Let us know your thoughts!
5 from 7 votes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Breakfast, Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 230 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 bag chopped coleslaw mix
  • 5/8 cup olive oil mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 cup cultured buttermilk
  • 1/2 tsp. sea salt
  • 1 Tbsp. sugar

Instructions
 

  • Combine all ingredients and stir well to thoroughly mix.
  • Add more seasonings if desired.
  • Chill at least 1-2 hours before serving.

Notes

Select your favorite recipe.
Organize all the required ingredients.
Enjoy the food.

Nutrition

Calories: 230kcal
Keyword buttermilk recipes, homemade buttermilk coleslaw
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

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Cassie brings decades of experience to the Kitchen Community. She is a noted chef and avid gardener. Her new book "Healthy Eating Through the Garden" will be released shortly. When not writing or speaking about food and gardens Cassie can be found puttering around farmer's markets and greenhouses looking for the next great idea.
Cassie Marshall
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