15 Buttermilk Recipes: Delicious Ways to Enjoy This Versatile Ingredient

Buttermilk is a versatile ingredient that can elevate your cooking and baking. It adds a tangy flavor and helps create tender, moist dishes. From fluffy pancakes to savory biscuits, buttermilk can truly be the star of your kitchen.

Whether you have leftover buttermilk or want to explore new recipes, there are plenty of delicious options to choose from. You can easily incorporate it into meals that everyone will enjoy.

1) Southern Buttermilk Biscuits

Southern buttermilk biscuits are a classic comfort food. They are flaky, buttery, and perfect for any meal. Whether you enjoy them with gravy or jam, they’re always a hit.

To start, it’s important to use chilled butter and buttermilk. Freezing the butter for a bit can help achieve that light, fluffy texture.

You can use all-purpose flour or self-rising flour, depending on your preference. Mixing the dry ingredients first ensures even distribution.

For cooking, preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). These biscuits bake quickly, so keep an eye on them for a golden finish.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
• 3/4 cup buttermilk

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C).
2. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cut in the chilled butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in the buttermilk until just combined.
5. Roll out the dough and cut into rounds.
6. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes until golden.

2) Classic Buttermilk Pancakes

Classic buttermilk pancakes are a breakfast favorite. They are light, fluffy, and delicious. You can serve them with butter and maple syrup for a perfect meal.

To make these pancakes, you will need simple ingredients. Mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt together.

In another bowl, combine buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter. Next, pour the wet ingredients into the dry ones. Stir gently until just combined. It’s okay if there are a few lumps.

Heat a skillet over medium heat (about 375°F or 190°C). Pour batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on top, then flip and cook until golden brown.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 3 ½ tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 ¼ cups buttermilk
• 1 large egg
• 3 tbsp melted butter

Cooking Instructions

1. Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl.
2. Mix buttermilk, egg, and melted butter in another bowl.
3. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir gently.
4. Heat a skillet to 375°F (190°C).
5. Pour batter onto the skillet.
6. Cook until bubbles form, then flip and cook until golden.

3) Tangy Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Buttermilk fried chicken is a delicious dish that is tender and flavorful. Soaking chicken in buttermilk gives it a nice tangy taste and helps keep it juicy while frying.

To make this dish, you will need bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces. The buttermilk acts as a great tenderizer. You can add spices like paprika and cayenne to the buttermilk for an extra kick.

For the crispy coating, dip the chicken in seasoned flour before frying. This creates a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the juicy meat inside.

Ingredients

• 4 pieces bone-in, skin-on chicken
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Oil for frying

Cooking Instructions

1. Soak the chicken in buttermilk for at least 2 hours or overnight.
2. In a bowl, mix flour, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
3. Heat oil in a large pan to 350°F (175°C).
4. Remove chicken from the buttermilk and dredge in the flour mixture.
5. Fry the chicken in hot oil until golden brown and cooked through, about 15-20 minutes per side.

4) Creamy Buttermilk Ranch Dressing

Making your own buttermilk ranch dressing is simple and rewarding. This creamy dressing is perfect for salads, as a dip for veggies, or even for marinating meats.

To start, gather your ingredients. You’ll want a mix of buttermilk, mayonnaise, garlic, herbs like dill, and some seasoning.

The buttermilk gives it a nice tang, while mayonnaise adds creaminess. You can whip this up in just a few minutes. Just whisk everything together until it’s smooth and well combined.

Ingredients

• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill (or 1 teaspoon dried)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and mayonnaise until well blended.
2. Add the minced garlic, dill, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix thoroughly and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Store in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Enjoy!

5) Buttermilk Blueberry Muffins

Buttermilk blueberry muffins are delicious and easy to make. The buttermilk gives them a tender texture and rich flavor. You can enjoy these muffins for breakfast or as a snack.

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or spray it with nonstick spray.

Mix together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl. Gently fold in fresh blueberries for that burst of flavor.

Pour the batter into the prepared muffin cups. Bake for about 15 to 20 minutes, until the tops are golden brown.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 1 cup fresh blueberries

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
3. In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. Add buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter to the dry ingredients.
5. Gently fold in blueberries.
6. Fill muffin cups with batter.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.

6) Fluffy Buttermilk Waffles

Fluffy buttermilk waffles are a delightful way to start your day. They are soft on the inside and crisp on the outside. You can easily customize them with your favorite toppings.

To make these waffles, you will need basic ingredients. The buttermilk adds a tangy flavor and helps make the waffles light and airy. Don’t forget to beat the egg whites separately for extra fluffiness.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 3/4 cups buttermilk
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, beat egg yolks with buttermilk. Stir in melted butter and vanilla.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients, mixing gently.
5. In a separate bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Fold into the batter.
6. Pour the batter into the preheated waffle iron and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
7. Serve warm with your favorite toppings.

7) Moist Buttermilk Cornbread

Moist buttermilk cornbread is a delicious side dish that pairs well with many meals. The buttermilk helps create a light and fluffy texture. It adds a slight tang that makes every bite flavorful.

For this recipe, you’ll need cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, buttermilk, eggs, and butter. Combining these ingredients results in a perfect blend for cornbread.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup melted butter

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 390°F (200°C).
2. Grease an 8×8-inch or 7×11-inch baking pan.
3. In a bowl, mix the dry ingredients.
4. In another bowl, whisk the wet ingredients together.
5. Combine both mixtures until just mixed.
6. Pour batter into the pan and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Check with a toothpick for doneness. Enjoy!

8) Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes

Buttermilk mashed potatoes are a creamy and flavorful side dish. They are perfect for any meal, adding a tangy twist to the traditional recipe. The buttermilk makes the potatoes extra smooth and delicious.

To start, make sure to use good-quality potatoes. You can choose Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for the best texture.

Once cooked, mix in the buttermilk for creaminess. You can also add butter, salt, and pepper to enhance the flavor.

Serve the potatoes hot for the best experience. They’re great for family dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet)
• ½ cup buttermilk
• 4 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Peel and cut the potatoes into chunks.
2. Boil in salted water (about 20-25 minutes) until tender.
3. Drain and mash the potatoes.
4. Stir in butter and buttermilk.
5. Season with salt and pepper, then serve warm.

9) Savory Buttermilk Scones

Savory buttermilk scones are a delicious twist on the classic treat. They make a wonderful addition to any breakfast or tea time. The buttermilk gives them a light and fluffy texture, while herbs and cheese add fantastic flavor.

To make your scones, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients. Common additions include shredded cheese and herbs, like rosemary or chives. These flavors blend beautifully with the buttery dough.

You can serve them warm with butter or enjoy them with a nice soup for lunch. They are easy to make and impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and diced
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup shredded cheese (like cheddar)
• 1/4 cup fresh herbs, chopped (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda.
3. Cut in the cold butter until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in the cheese and herbs.
5. Add the buttermilk and mix until just combined.
6. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently.
7. Roll out to 1-inch thick and cut into rounds.
8. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden.
9. Enjoy your warm and savory scones!

10) Buttermilk Panna Cotta

Buttermilk panna cotta is a simple and delicious dessert. It has a creamy texture with a hint of tanginess from the buttermilk. This dessert can be flavored in many ways, like vanilla or citrus.

To make this treat, you will need a few basic ingredients. It’s perfect for dinner parties or a sweet end to any meal. Serve it with fresh fruit or a drizzle of syrup for extra flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 cups (480 ml) buttermilk
• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
• 1/2 cup (100 g) sugar
• 1 tablespoon (7 g) unflavored gelatin
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Fresh fruit or sauce for topping (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over 1/4 cup (60 ml) of cold water. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. In a saucepan, heat cream and sugar over medium heat until sugar dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and stir in gelatin until dissolved.
4. Mix in buttermilk and vanilla extract.
5. Pour into ramekins and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.
6. Serve with fresh fruit or sauce. Enjoy!

11) Crunchy Buttermilk Onion Rings

You will love making crunchy buttermilk onion rings. These rings are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Perfect as a snack or a side dish!

Start by soaking your onion rings in buttermilk. This helps add flavor and keeps them moist.

Next, mix flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. This blend will create the perfect coating.

Dip each onion ring in the buttermilk, then coat it with the flour mixture. Fry them in hot oil until golden brown.

You can enjoy them hot, and they pair well with a tasty dip.

Ingredients

• 2 large onions (Vidalia or yellow)
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Oil for frying

Cooking Instructions

1. Peel and slice onions into rings.
2. Soak the onion rings in buttermilk for 30 minutes.
3. In a bowl, mix flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep pan.
5. Dip each onion ring in buttermilk, then coat with flour mixture.
6. Fry in hot oil until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.

12) Berry Buttermilk Ice Cream

Berry buttermilk ice cream is a delightful treat for warm days. It combines the tangy taste of buttermilk with the sweetness of berries. This ice cream is creamy and refreshing, making it a perfect dessert.

To make it, you only need a few simple ingredients. The buttermilk adds a unique flavor that pairs well with strawberries, blueberries, or whatever berries you prefer. The texture remains smooth and luscious.

You can enjoy this ice cream on its own or serve it with desserts like pie. It’s easy to make at home and sure to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 cup mixed berries
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cooking Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix buttermilk, heavy cream, and sugar until blended.
2. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Add berries and gently mix.
4. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker.
5. Freeze according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Transfer to a container and freeze for at least 6 hours before serving.

13) Sweet Buttermilk Pie

Sweet buttermilk pie is a classic dessert that is simple to make and delicious. This pie has a creamy filling with a hint of tanginess from the buttermilk. The flaky crust complements the smooth texture perfectly.

You start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare your pie crust and place it in a pie plate. Make sure to crimp the edges nicely.

Next, mix together the buttermilk, sugar, eggs, butter, and vanilla. Pour this filling into the crust. Bake for about 30 to 35 minutes until the filling is set and slightly golden.

Let the pie cool before serving. It’s perfect for any gathering or just a sweet treat at home.

Ingredients

• 1 pie crust
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out your pie crust and place it in the pie plate.
3. In a bowl, mix buttermilk, sugar, eggs, butter, and vanilla.
4. Pour the mixture into the crust.
5. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until set.
6. Allow to cool before serving.

14) Herbed Buttermilk Salad Dressing

This herbed buttermilk salad dressing is a fresh and tasty addition to your salads. It’s simple to make and versatile enough for various dishes. You can use it as a dressing, dipping sauce, or spread.

Start by whisking together mayonnaise, fresh herbs, and a pinch of salt. Then mix in buttermilk and black pepper until blended. You can adjust the herbs to suit your tastes.

Feel free to add garlic or lemon for extra flavor. This dressing pairs well with mixed greens, vegetable dips, or even as a sandwich spread.

Ingredients

• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup fresh herbs (like dill, parsley, or chives)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Cooking Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and fresh herbs.
2. Add buttermilk, salt, and black pepper.
3. Mix until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
5. Refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.

15) Zesty Buttermilk Coleslaw

Zesty buttermilk coleslaw is a flavorful twist on the classic side dish. The creamy buttermilk dressing adds a tasty tang that pairs well with crunchy cabbage and carrots. This coleslaw is perfect for barbecues and family gatherings.

To make it, you will need cabbage, carrots, buttermilk, mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. The combination of these ingredients offers a balance of flavors you’re sure to love.

Ingredients

• 4 cups shredded cabbage
• 1 cup grated carrots
• 1 cup buttermilk
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine cabbage and carrots.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
3. Then, pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture.
4. Toss until well coated.
5. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
6. Enjoy!