Buttermilk adds moisture, tang, and richness to all kinds of dishes. It makes fried foods crispier, baked goods softer, and marinades more flavorful.
These recipes use buttermilk in creative ways to bring out the best flavors. Cook up something new today with one of these easy buttermilk dishes.
1. Buttermilk Fried Chicken
Marinate chicken pieces in seasoned buttermilk to make them extra tender. Coat in a spiced flour mixture before deep frying until golden and crispy.
The buttermilk helps create a light, crunchy crust that holds in juices. Serve with mashed potatoes and biscuits for a comforting meal.
Full recipe: click here.
2. Buttermilk Pancakes
Mix buttermilk into the batter to make pancakes soft and fluffy. The acidity reacts with baking soda for a light, airy texture.
Cook on a hot griddle until golden with crispy edges. Top with syrup, fresh fruit, or melted butter for extra flavor.
Full recipe: click here.
3. Buttermilk Biscuits
Cut cold butter into flour before mixing in chilled buttermilk. Roll out the dough and fold multiple times for flaky layers.
Bake until golden brown with a crisp exterior and soft interior. Serve warm with honey, jam, or sausage gravy.
Full recipe: click here.
4. Buttermilk Cornbread
Combine cornmeal, buttermilk, and eggs for a moist, tender bread. Bake in a cast-iron skillet to create a crispy golden crust.
The buttermilk adds tanginess and makes the bread rich in flavor. Serve with chili, barbecue, or just a pat of butter.
Full recipe: click here.
5. Buttermilk Ranch Dressing
Whisk buttermilk with mayo, garlic, herbs, and a splash of vinegar. The buttermilk creates a creamy texture while adding a slight tanginess.
Use as a dip for veggies or drizzle over fresh salads. This dressing also makes a great sauce for grilled meats and sandwiches.
Full recipe: click here.
6. Buttermilk Waffles
Fold whipped egg whites into a buttermilk batter for extra fluffiness. Cook in a hot waffle iron until crisp on the outside.
The buttermilk keeps the waffles soft and rich with a slight tang. Serve with fresh berries, whipped cream, or warm maple syrup.
Full recipe: click here.
7. Buttermilk Brined Turkey
Soak the turkey overnight in seasoned buttermilk for maximum tenderness. The buttermilk helps break down proteins, making the meat juicy and flavorful.
Roast in the oven until golden brown with crispy skin. This method works for both whole turkeys and turkey breasts.
Full recipe: click here.
8. Buttermilk Panna Cotta
Mix buttermilk with cream, sugar, and gelatin for a smooth dessert. Chill until set, then serve with fresh berries or fruit sauce.
The buttermilk adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness. This creamy, elegant dessert is easy to prepare ahead of time.
Full recipe: click here.
9. Buttermilk Blueberry Muffins
Fold fresh or frozen blueberries into a tender buttermilk muffin batter. The buttermilk keeps the muffins soft while adding a slight tangy flavor.
Bake until golden brown with domed tops and juicy berries inside. These muffins are great for breakfast, snacks, or brunch.
Full recipe: click here.
10. Buttermilk Coleslaw
Toss shredded cabbage and carrots with a buttermilk dressing for crunch. The buttermilk keeps the dressing light and slightly tangy.
Add vinegar, sugar, and spices to balance out the flavors. Serve as a side dish with barbecue, burgers, or fried foods.
Full recipe: click here.
11. Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes
Boil potatoes until soft, then mash with warm buttermilk and butter. The buttermilk makes them extra creamy with a slightly tangy taste.
Whip until smooth or leave some texture for rustic-style mashed potatoes. Pair with roast chicken, meatloaf, or grilled steak.
Full recipe: click here.
12. Buttermilk Doughnuts
Mix buttermilk into the dough for soft and tender homemade doughnuts. Fry until golden brown, then roll in sugar or glaze with icing.
The buttermilk adds a slight tang that balances the sweetness. Enjoy these treats fresh with a cup of coffee or tea.
Full recipe: click here.
13. Buttermilk Pound Cake
Beat butter, sugar, eggs, and buttermilk into a thick cake batter. Bake until golden with a dense, moist, and rich crumb.
The buttermilk keeps the cake soft while adding a subtle tang. Serve plain, with whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Full recipe: click here.
14. Buttermilk Cheddar Scones
Mix sharp cheddar cheese into a buttery buttermilk scone dough. Cut into wedges and bake until golden brown with crisp edges.
The buttermilk adds tanginess while keeping the scones soft and tender. Serve warm with butter, jam, or alongside a bowl of soup.
Full recipe: click here.
15. Buttermilk Battered Onion Rings
Dip onion slices into a buttermilk batter before frying until crispy. The buttermilk helps the batter stick and adds a slight tang.
Fry until golden brown and serve with a dipping sauce. These onion rings are crunchy on the outside and soft inside.
Full recipe: click here.
16. Buttermilk Pie
Whisk eggs, sugar, buttermilk, and butter into a smooth filling. Pour into a flaky pie crust and bake until golden and set.
he buttermilk creates a custardy texture with a slightly tangy flavor. Serve chilled or at room temperature with whipped cream.
Full recipe: click here.
17. Buttermilk Chocolate Cake
Use buttermilk to create a moist and rich chocolate cake batter. The buttermilk enhances the cocoa flavor while making the cake extra soft.
Bake until set and frost with a creamy chocolate buttercream. This cake is perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just dessert.
Full recipe: click here.
Final Thoughts
Buttermilk makes everything more flavorful, tender, and rich in texture. Use it in sweet or savory recipes to enhance moisture and taste.
These recipes are easy to make and bring out the best in buttermilk. Try something new today and enjoy the delicious results.
Featured image credit to ©bakerbynature.
