Have you ever found yourself craving some Southern-style biscuits but realizing you don’t have any buttermilk in the refrigerator? Or perhaps you’re in the mood for some Nashville hot chicken, but you don’t want to buy a whole carton of buttermilk just for a cup. Well, worry no more! I have a solution that will have you enjoying these delicious treats in no time.

With just two ingredients and less than ten minutes, you can easily whip up a buttermilk alternative. All you need is milk and either a teaspoon of lemon juice or white vinegar. It’s the closest thing to buttermilk and works like a charm.

Why Do We Need Buttermilk?

Buttermilk is a crucial ingredient in many baking recipes because it adds lightness and tenderness to the batter. When the baking powder or baking soda in the batter interacts with the acids in buttermilk, it creates a wonderful fizzing reaction. This reaction not only neutralizes the sourness of the buttermilk but also makes our baked goods irresistibly fluffy and delectable.

Creating the Perfect Buttermilk Alternative

When you find yourself without buttermilk, don’t worry. Milk with a little lemon juice or white vinegar can work wonders as a substitute. You can also use other dairy products with a touch of acidity added. While it may not become as thick and creamy as buttermilk, this mixture will still perfectly complement your batter. And here’s a fun fact: thinned yogurt or sour cream can also be used as a great buttermilk substitute.

Isn’t it great to have alternatives to buttermilk? With these simple substitutions, you’ll never have to deny yourself a delicious pancake craving again.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 scant cup whole or 2% milk, or heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice or distilled white vinegar

Instructions:

1. Combine the milk or cream and acid: Stir 1 scant cup of milk or cream and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar together in a measuring cup.
2. Let it stand 5 to 10 minutes: Allow the mixture to stand at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes. You’ll notice that the milk will become slightly thickened, and small curdled bits will form. Don’t worry, this won’t affect the final result.
3. Use the buttermilk: Incorporate this homemade buttermilk substitute, including the curdled bits, just as you would regular buttermilk in your recipe.

Enjoy your homemade buttermilk substitute and get ready to enjoy all your favorite Southern classics without any fuss!