Buttermilk is a versatile ingredient that can add tangy flavor and tender texture to many dishes.

From breakfast to dinner, this dairy product works wonders in both sweet and savory recipes.

Using buttermilk in recipes can take your meals to the next level.

It’s great for marinades, baked goods, and creamy dressings. Whether you have leftover buttermilk or bought it for a specific recipe, there are plenty of delicious ways to use it up.

Get ready to discover some tasty new dishes that showcase this amazing ingredient.

1. Buttermilk Pancakes

Buttermilk pancakes are a breakfast classic loved by many. They’re fluffy, tender, and have a subtle tangy flavor that sets them apart from regular pancakes.

To make these delicious treats, you’ll need flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, eggs, buttermilk, and melted butter.

Mix the dry ingredients in one bowl and the wet ingredients in another.

Combine the two mixtures gently, being careful not to overmix. This helps keep your pancakes light and airy.

Cook them on a hot griddle or pan until golden brown on both sides.

Serve your buttermilk pancakes with your favorite toppings. Maple syrup, fresh berries, or whipped cream are popular choices.

You can also try fruit compotes or chocolate chips for variety.

2. Southern-Style Buttermilk Biscuits

Southern-style buttermilk biscuits are a classic comfort food. You can make these fluffy, golden treats at home with a few simple ingredients.

Start by using cold butter and buttermilk. Grate frozen butter to easily mix it into the flour. This helps create flaky layers in your biscuits.

Handle the dough gently to avoid tough biscuits. Mix just until the ingredients come together.

Pat the dough out and fold it a few times to create more layers.

Cut the biscuits with a sharp cutter and place them close together on the baking sheet. This helps them rise higher as they bake.

Bake the biscuits until they’re lightly golden on top and bottom.

Serve them warm with butter, jam, or gravy for a tasty Southern treat.

3. Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Buttermilk fried chicken is a classic comfort food that’s crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. You’ll love this Southern favorite for its rich flavor and satisfying crunch.

To make it, soak chicken pieces in buttermilk mixed with spices. This tenderizes the meat and adds flavor.

Next, coat the chicken in seasoned flour.

Fry the coated pieces in hot oil until golden brown. The result is perfectly crispy chicken with a tangy buttermilk taste.

You can serve buttermilk fried chicken with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or corn on the cob.

It’s great for picnics, family dinners, or anytime you crave a tasty meal.

4. Classic Buttermilk Coleslaw

Buttermilk coleslaw is a must-have for summer cookouts and barbecues. This tangy, creamy side dish pairs perfectly with ribs, hot dogs, and tacos.

To make it, finely shred cabbage and carrots. Mix them in a large bowl with diced onions.

In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, buttermilk, sugar, lemon juice, and seasonings.

Pour the dressing over the vegetables and mix well. The buttermilk adds a delicious tang and helps create the ideal consistency.

For best results, chill your coleslaw before serving.

You can adjust the sweetness with honey or sugar to balance the tangy buttermilk flavor. Don’t forget to season generously with salt and pepper for maximum taste.

5. Buttermilk Ranch Dressing

Buttermilk ranch dressing is a creamy and tangy delight you can easily make at home. You’ll need buttermilk, mayonnaise, and a blend of herbs and spices.

Mix buttermilk and mayo as the base. Add dried parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, and dill for flavor. Salt and pepper to taste.

Whisk all ingredients until smooth. Adjust seasonings as needed.

Your homemade ranch will taste fresher than store-bought versions.

Use it on salads, as a dip for veggies, or as a spread for sandwiches.

You can also try variations like BBQ ranch or salsa ranch by mixing in extra ingredients.

6. Buttermilk Cornbread

Buttermilk cornbread is a Southern classic that’s moist, fluffy, and full of flavor. The secret ingredient is buttermilk, which adds a tangy taste and creates a lighter texture.

To make it, you’ll mix cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt. Then add buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter.

Pour the batter into a hot, greased cast iron skillet for a crispy crust.

Bake until golden brown. Serve warm with honey or butter.

It’s great with chili, soups, or on its own as a snack.

If you don’t have buttermilk, make a substitute by adding lemon juice to regular milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

7. Creamy Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes

Creamy buttermilk mashed potatoes offer a tangy twist on a classic side dish. You’ll love the rich, velvety texture and zesty flavor these potatoes bring to your table.

To make them, start by boiling peeled and chunked potatoes until tender. While they cook, warm buttermilk and butter in a separate pan.

Once the potatoes are done, drain and mash them. Then mix in the warm buttermilk mixture.

This method ensures your potatoes stay hot and creamy.

For extra flavor, add minced garlic or fresh herbs. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

These mashed potatoes are so good, you might not even need gravy.

8. Buttermilk Ice Cream

Buttermilk ice cream is a tangy and refreshing treat. It balances sweetness with a pleasant tartness from the buttermilk.

To make it, you’ll mix buttermilk with cream, sugar, and vanilla. Some recipes add egg yolks for extra richness.

Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn until it’s soft-serve consistency.

You can eat it right away or freeze it longer for firmer ice cream.

Try adding mix-ins like candied pecans or a swirl of molasses for extra flavor. Buttermilk ice cream pairs well with fruit pies or cobblers.

9. Buttermilk Chocolate Cake

Buttermilk chocolate cake is a moist, rich dessert you’ll love. The tangy buttermilk adds depth to the chocolate flavor.

To make it, mix flour, sugar, cocoa, and baking soda. Add oil, buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla. Blend until smooth.

Pour the batter into a greased pan and bake until a toothpick comes out clean. Let it cool before frosting.

For extra decadence, top your cake with chocolate ganache.

Simply melt chocolate with hot cream and spread it on the cooled cake.

This cake stays moist for days, making it perfect for parties or family gatherings.

10. Blueberry-Buttermilk Muffins

Blueberry-buttermilk muffins are a tasty breakfast treat. You can make them easily at home with a few simple steps.

Start by mixing flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. In another bowl, combine buttermilk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla.

Add the wet ingredients to the dry ones. Fold in fresh blueberries gently. Don’t overmix the batter.

Spoon the mixture into a lined muffin tin. Bake at 400°F for about 20 minutes. The muffins are done when a toothpick comes out clean.

These muffins are moist and flavorful. The buttermilk gives them a slight tang, while the blueberries add bursts of sweetness.

11. Buttermilk Banana Bread

Buttermilk banana bread is a tasty twist on the classic recipe. The buttermilk adds extra moisture and a subtle tangy flavor that pairs well with sweet bananas.

To make this bread, you’ll need ripe bananas, flour, sugar, eggs, buttermilk, and baking soda.

Mix the wet and dry ingredients separately, then combine them gently.

Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan and bake at 350°F for about an hour. The bread is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Let the bread cool before slicing.

It stays fresh at room temperature for several days when stored in an airtight container. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.

12. Buttermilk Scones with Berries

Buttermilk scones with berries are a tasty treat for breakfast or tea time. The buttermilk gives these scones a light, fluffy texture.

You can use different types of berries in your scones. Try blueberries, strawberries, or blackberries. A mix of berries works well too.

To make the scones, mix flour, sugar, and baking powder. Cut in cold butter, then add buttermilk and berries.

Shape the dough into rounds and bake until golden brown.

Serve your scones warm with butter, jam, or clotted cream. They’re best fresh, but you can freeze extras for later.

13. Fluffy Buttermilk Waffles

Buttermilk waffles are a breakfast favorite. They’re crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. You can make them easily at home with a few simple ingredients.

Mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. In another bowl, whisk egg yolks, buttermilk, and melted butter.

Pour the wet mix into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.

Beat egg whites separately until stiff peaks form. Gently fold them into the batter.

This step makes your waffles extra fluffy.

Pour the batter into a hot waffle iron and cook until golden brown.

Serve with your favorite toppings like butter, syrup, fresh fruit, or whipped cream.

14. Tangy Buttermilk Pound Cake

Buttermilk pound cake is a tasty twist on the classic dessert. It has a rich, buttery flavor with a hint of tanginess from the buttermilk.

The cake is moist and has a tender crumb texture. You can enjoy it plain or use it as a base for other sweet treats.

To make this cake, you’ll cream together butter and sugar, add eggs, and mix in flour and buttermilk. Vanilla extract gives it extra flavor.

Bake the cake in a Bundt pan until golden brown. Let it cool before removing from the pan.

Serve slices with fresh berries or ice cream for a simple but yummy dessert.

15. Buttermilk Strawberry Shortcakes

Buttermilk strawberry shortcakes are a classic summer dessert you’ll love. The star of this treat is the light, flaky biscuit made with buttermilk.

To make the biscuits, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in cold butter until the mixture looks like small peas. Stir in buttermilk just until combined.

Drop the dough onto a baking sheet and bake at 450°F until golden brown.

While they cool, slice fresh strawberries and mix with sugar.

To serve, split a biscuit and top with sweetened strawberries and a dollop of whipped cream.

The tangy buttermilk biscuit pairs perfectly with the sweet berries and cream.

16. Savory Buttermilk Drop Biscuits

Buttermilk drop biscuits are a quick and easy way to add a tasty side to your meals. These biscuits have a soft, tender texture and rich flavor from the tangy buttermilk.

To make them, you’ll mix flour, baking powder, salt, and butter. Then stir in cold buttermilk until just combined.

Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet and bake at 400°F.

For extra flavor, try adding shredded cheddar cheese and chopped scallions to the dough. Or sprinkle the tops with black pepper before baking.

These savory biscuits pair well with soups, stews, and roasted meats.

17. Lemon Buttermilk Pudding

Lemon buttermilk pudding is a tangy, creamy dessert you’ll love. It combines the tartness of lemon with the richness of buttermilk for a perfect balance of flavors.

To make this pudding, you’ll mix sugar, flour, lemon juice, and zest with buttermilk and heavy cream. Add egg yolks to create a smooth custard base.

Cook the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly until it thickens. The result is a velvety pudding with a bright lemon flavor.

You can serve this pudding warm or chilled. Top it with whipped cream or fresh berries for extra indulgence. It’s a refreshing treat that’s sure to please your taste buds.

18. Honey Buttermilk Dinner Rolls

Honey buttermilk dinner rolls are a tasty twist on classic dinner rolls. They combine the tangy flavor of buttermilk with the sweetness of honey.

To make these rolls, you’ll need flour, yeast, sugar, salt, buttermilk, honey, and butter. Mix the dry ingredients, then add the wet ingredients to form a soft dough.

Let the dough rise until doubled in size. Shape it into small balls and place them in a baking pan. Allow them to rise again before baking.

Brush the tops with melted butter and honey for a golden, shiny finish. Bake until the rolls are lightly browned and fluffy.

These rolls freeze well. You can store them for up to 3 months and reheat them in the oven when needed.

19. Buttermilk Garlic Breadsticks

Buttermilk garlic breadsticks are a tasty twist on a classic side dish. You can make them easily at home with just a few ingredients.

Mix self-raising flour with buttermilk to form a soft dough. No need for yeast or rising time. Shape the dough into strips and place them on a baking sheet.

Brush the breadsticks with melted butter and sprinkle with garlic powder before baking. They’ll come out golden brown and full of flavor.

These breadsticks go great with pasta dishes or as a snack on their own. You can also dip them in marinara sauce for extra taste.

20. Buttermilk Cheddar Crackers

Buttermilk cheddar crackers are a tasty homemade snack. You can make them with just a few simple ingredients.

Mix self-rising flour, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Cut cold butter into small pieces and work it into the dry ingredients.

Add grated cheddar cheese and buttermilk. Stir until the dough comes together. Roll out the dough and cut into cracker shapes.

Bake the crackers until golden and crisp. They’re great on their own or with cheese and meat. Try sprinkling some seeds on top before baking for extra crunch and flavor.

21. Buttermilk Barbecue Sauce

Buttermilk barbecue sauce adds a tangy twist to your grilling favorites. Mix buttermilk with your go-to BBQ spices for a unique flavor.

Try adding brown sugar or honey for a touch of sweetness. This sauce works great as a marinade for chicken or pork.

You can also brush it on meats while grilling. The creamy texture helps the sauce stick to your food better.

For extra zest, add some hot sauce or cayenne pepper. Experiment with different spices to create your own signature blend.

22. Buttermilk Doughnuts

Buttermilk doughnuts are a tasty treat you can make at home. They have a soft, cake-like texture and tangy flavor from the buttermilk.

To make them, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and spices. Add buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter to form the dough. Shape into rings and fry until golden brown.

Top your doughnuts with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla. You can also roll them in cinnamon sugar for a classic finish.

These doughnuts are best enjoyed fresh and warm. Serve them with coffee or milk for a delightful breakfast or snack.

23. Buttermilk Vanilla Custard

Buttermilk vanilla custard is a creamy, tangy dessert you’ll love. It combines the richness of eggs with the slight tartness of buttermilk.

To make it, heat buttermilk in a pot until it simmers. In a bowl, whisk sugar, eggs, and cornstarch. Slowly mix the warm buttermilk into the egg mixture.

Add vanilla extract for flavor. Pour the mixture into ramekins or a pie crust. Bake at 325°F for about 45 minutes until set.

Chill the custard before serving. You can enjoy it on its own or with fresh fruit on top.

24. Buttermilk Chicken Tenders

Buttermilk chicken tenders are a tasty treat you can make at home. Start by soaking chicken strips in buttermilk for at least 2 hours. This helps tenderize the meat.

Mix flour with spices like paprika, garlic powder, and salt. Coat the chicken in this seasoned flour after removing it from the buttermilk.

Fry the coated tenders in hot oil until golden brown and crispy. For a healthier option, you can bake them in the oven at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes.

Serve your homemade buttermilk chicken tenders with your favorite dipping sauce. They make a great snack or main dish that both kids and adults will love.

25. Buttermilk Potato Salad

Buttermilk potato salad is a creamy, tangy twist on the classic side dish. You’ll love how the buttermilk adds a fresh, zesty flavor to this summer favorite.

To make it, boil potatoes until tender, then chop them into small chunks. Mix in chopped boiled eggs, pickles, onions, and pimentos for extra flavor and crunch.

The dressing combines buttermilk with mayo, mustard, and herbs. This creates a rich, creamy coating that clings to every bite of potato.

For best results, chill your potato salad before serving. This allows the flavors to blend and gives you a cool, refreshing dish perfect for barbecues and picnics.

26. Buttermilk Panna Cotta

Buttermilk panna cotta is a creamy, tangy dessert that’s perfect for warm days. You’ll love its smooth texture and refreshing flavor.

To make it, you’ll need heavy cream, sugar, vanilla, gelatin, and of course, buttermilk. The process is simple – just heat the ingredients, let them set, and enjoy.

You can serve buttermilk panna cotta on its own or with toppings. Try fresh berries, a drizzle of honey, or a balsamic reduction for extra flavor.

This dessert is great for beginners and experienced cooks alike. It’s sure to impress your guests at your next dinner party or gathering.

27. Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Pie

Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Pie is a classic Southern dessert that’s easy to make. The filling has a creamy, custardy texture with a sweet and tangy flavor.

To make it, you’ll mix butter, sugar, eggs, flour, buttermilk, and vanilla. Pour this into a pie crust and bake until set.

The top gets a nice golden brown color and slightly crispy texture. The inside stays soft and gooey, similar to crème brûlée.

This pie is best served slightly warm or at room temperature. It’s a great choice for family gatherings or holiday meals.

28. Buttermilk Pumpkin Bread

Buttermilk pumpkin bread is a delicious fall treat. It combines the rich flavors of pumpkin and warm spices with tangy buttermilk.

To make this bread, mix flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger in a bowl. In another bowl, blend pumpkin puree, sugar, oil, eggs, and buttermilk.

Combine the wet and dry ingredients, then pour into a greased loaf pan. Bake at 350°F for about an hour.

Your buttermilk pumpkin bread will be moist and flavorful. It stays fresh at room temperature for 2 days or in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for later enjoyment.

29. Buttermilk Herb-Marinated Grilled Chicken

Buttermilk herb-marinated grilled chicken is a tasty and juicy dish you can easily make at home. The buttermilk helps tenderize the meat, while herbs add flavor.

To make this dish, mix buttermilk with garlic, herbs, and spices. Add chicken breasts to the mixture and let them soak for 1-2 hours.

When you’re ready to cook, heat your grill. Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the hot grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side.

Use a meat thermometer to check if the chicken is done. It should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.

This recipe works great for weeknight dinners or summer barbecues. You can also use the grilled chicken in wraps or salads.

30. Buttermilk Spinach Dip

This creamy dip is perfect for your next party. Mix thawed frozen spinach with tangy buttermilk, mayo, and sour cream. Add garlic, shallots, and cheese for extra flavor.

Bake the dip in the oven at 400°F for about 20 minutes. It will come out warm and bubbly.

Serve your buttermilk spinach dip in a bread bowl or with crunchy veggies. Try it with carrot sticks, celery, or bell peppers. You can also use pita chips or crackers for dipping.

This dip is easy to make ahead of time. Just refrigerate it and bake when you’re ready to serve.

31. Buttermilk Key Lime Pie

Buttermilk Key Lime Pie brings a tangy twist to a classic dessert. This creamy treat blends the tartness of key limes with the richness of buttermilk.

The filling is easy to make with just a few ingredients. You’ll mix key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, and buttermilk. Some recipes add lime zest for extra flavor.

Pour the mixture into a graham cracker crust and bake. The result is a smooth, custard-like filling with a bright lime taste. It’s less dense than traditional key lime pie.

Serve chilled with a dollop of whipped cream. This refreshing pie is perfect for warm weather gatherings or anytime you crave a citrusy dessert.

32. Buttermilk Mango Smoothie

A buttermilk mango smoothie is a tasty and refreshing drink. It’s easy to make at home with just a few ingredients.

To make this smoothie, you’ll need ripe mangoes, buttermilk, and a banana. Some recipes also add strawberries for extra flavor.

Put the mango pieces, banana, and buttermilk in a blender. Blend until smooth and creamy. You can add honey if you want it sweeter.

This smoothie is inspired by lassi, a popular yogurt drink from India. It’s cool and creamy, perfect for hot days.

Try adding spices like cardamom for a twist on the classic recipe. Serve it right away in tall glasses and enjoy!

33. Spicy Buttermilk Back Ribs

Spicy buttermilk back ribs are a tasty twist on classic barbecue. You’ll love the tender, flavorful meat that falls off the bone.

To make these ribs, marinate them in buttermilk and spices for several hours. This helps tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor.

For the spicy kick, add harissa spice blend to your marinade. You can also mix in some chipotle peppers for extra heat and smokiness.

Cook the ribs low and slow in the oven at 250°F for about 3 hours. Baste them occasionally with the marinade to keep them moist.

Finish the ribs under the broiler or on the grill to get a nice crust. Serve with your favorite barbecue sauce on the side.

34. Buttermilk Oatmeal Cookies

These cookies are a tasty treat that combines the comfort of oatmeal with the tangy flavor of buttermilk. You’ll need butter, brown sugar, flour, baking soda, and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.

Mix the wet and dry ingredients separately, then combine them. Add oats and any extras you like, such as raisins or chocolate chips.

Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet and bake at 375°F for 10-12 minutes. The cookies are done when they turn golden brown around the edges.

Let them cool for a few minutes before moving to a wire rack. Enjoy your buttermilk oatmeal cookies with a glass of milk or a cup of tea for a cozy snack.

35. Buttermilk-Almond Coffee Cake

Buttermilk-Almond Coffee Cake blends tangy buttermilk with rich almond flavor. This moist, tender cake is perfect for breakfast or dessert.

The cake batter mixes buttermilk, almond extract, and vanilla for a complex taste. Flour, baking soda, and salt form the dry ingredients.

A streusel topping adds crunch and extra almond flavor. You can use sliced almonds or almond flour in the streusel for more nutty goodness.

Bake until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean. Serve warm with coffee or tea for a cozy treat. The buttermilk keeps this cake moist for days, if it lasts that long!

36. Crispy Buttermilk Onion Rings

Crispy buttermilk onion rings are a tasty treat you can make at home. Start by slicing onions into rings and soaking them in buttermilk for 30 minutes. This helps tenderize the onions.

Next, mix flour with spices like salt, pepper, and paprika. Dip the soaked rings in this seasoned flour. For extra crunch, some cooks use crushed croutons instead of plain flour.

Heat oil to 365°F in a deep fryer or large pot. Fry the coated rings in small batches for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Serve your homemade onion rings hot as a side dish or snack. They pair well with burgers or can be enjoyed on their own with dipping sauce.

Understanding Buttermilk

Buttermilk is a tangy dairy product with many uses in cooking and baking. It adds flavor and helps create tender textures in recipes.

What Is Buttermilk?

Buttermilk used to be the liquid left after churning butter. Today, most buttermilk is cultured milk.

Food companies add bacteria to milk, which makes it thicker and gives it a sour taste. The bacteria turn some of the milk sugar into lactic acid.

This process is similar to making yogurt. But buttermilk is thinner and more drinkable.

You can find buttermilk in most grocery stores near the milk and cream. It comes in cartons or bottles. Some people also make buttermilk at home.

Nutritional Benefits of Buttermilk

Buttermilk is low in fat but high in other nutrients. It has calcium for strong bones and teeth.

It also gives you protein, potassium, and vitamin B12. These help your muscles, nerves, and blood cells work well.

The bacteria in buttermilk may help your digestion. Some people find it easier to drink than regular milk.

Buttermilk has fewer calories than whole milk. This makes it a good choice if you’re watching your weight.

You can drink buttermilk plain or use it in recipes. It works well in pancakes, biscuits, and salad dressings.

Cooking With Buttermilk

Buttermilk adds tangy flavor and moisture to many dishes. You can use it in both sweet and savory recipes for delicious results.

Tips for Baking with Buttermilk

Buttermilk makes baked goods tender and moist. When baking, replace regular milk with buttermilk in a 1:1 ratio. Add 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda for each cup of buttermilk to balance the acidity.

For fluffier pancakes or waffles, let the batter rest for 5-10 minutes before cooking. This allows the buttermilk to react with the baking soda.

If you don’t have buttermilk, make a quick substitute:

• Add 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup milk
• Let sit for 5 minutes before using

Buttermilk works great in cakes, biscuits, and quick breads. It helps create a tender crumb and adds a subtle tang.

Savory Dishes Enhanced by Buttermilk

Buttermilk isn’t just for baking. You can use it in many savory dishes too.

It makes an excellent marinade for chicken, helping to tenderize the meat. Try soaking chicken in buttermilk for 2-8 hours before frying or grilling.

The acids break down proteins, resulting in juicier, more flavorful chicken.

You can also use buttermilk in:

• Salad dressings
• Mashed potatoes
• Creamy soups
• Pasta sauces

For a tangy twist, add a splash of buttermilk to your next batch of mashed potatoes or mac and cheese.

It pairs well with herbs like dill, chives, and parsley in dips and dressings.