When it comes to cooking and baking, one ingredient can make all the difference: buttermilk. With its tangy, creamy flavor and versatility in both sweet and savory dishes, it’s no wonder why many chefs swear by its use. Whether you’re whipping up a batch of fluffy pancakes or making a rich, velvety sauce for your favorite dish, buttermilk is a must-have in any kitchen. In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious easy recipes that feature buttermilk as the star ingredient. From classic comfort foods to sweet treats and everything in between, these recipes are sure to become staples in your cooking repertoire.
Fluffy Buttermilk Pancakes
Start your day off right with these Fluffy Buttermilk Pancakes, packed with tender texture and a hint of tanginess from the buttermilk.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 large eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add sugar, melted butter, and buttermilk to the dry ingredients. Whisk until smooth.
4. Crack in eggs and whisk until just combined.
5. Pour batter onto the preheated skillet or griddle, using about 1/4 cup per pancake.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 pancakes in total, depending on size.
Buttermilk Fried Chicken
A classic Southern favorite, this Buttermilk Fried Chicken recipe yields crispy and juicy chicken pieces that are sure to please.
Ingredients:
• 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the buttermilk mixture; marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off.
5. Dredge the chicken pieces in flour, shaking off any excess.
6. Fry the chicken in batches for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through; drain on paper towels.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Buttermilk Biscuits
These tender and buttery biscuits are a staple of Southern cuisine, perfect for serving alongside your favorite comfort foods or as a breakfast treat. With just a few simple ingredients and some gentle folding, you’ll be rewarded with a batch of golden-brown, flaky goodness.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup buttermilk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Pour in buttermilk and stir gently until the dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
5. Turn dough out onto a floured surface and knead lightly 2-3 times.
6. Roll out to 1-inch thickness, cut into rounds or squares, and place on prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Buttermilk Ranch Dressing
This tangy and rich dressing is perfect for salads, dips, or as a sauce for grilled meats or vegetables. With its creamy buttermilk base and hint of garlic, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine buttermilk, mayonnaise, dill, garlic, mustard, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 5 minutes
– Total time: 35 minutes (including refrigeration)
Buttermilk Cornbread
A classic Southern staple, this buttermilk cornbread recipe yields a moist and fluffy loaf with a subtle tang from the buttermilk. Perfect for accompanying your favorite soups or stews, or as a side dish to complement roasted meats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, salt, baking soda, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, melted butter, and egg until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Buttermilk Waffles
Start your day off right with a stack of crispy, golden waffles infused with the tangy goodness of buttermilk. This classic recipe yields a batch of 6-8 waffles perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs until frothy, then add buttermilk and whisk until combined.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Add melted butter and stir until smooth.
6. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the center of the waffle iron and spread evenly to edges.
7. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the waffles are golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes total (dependent on waffle iron and number of waffles)
Buttermilk Blueberry Muffins
Start your day off right with these moist and flavorful buttermilk blueberry muffins, bursting with sweet and tangy goodness. Perfect for a breakfast on-the-go or as a snack to brighten up your afternoon.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Gently fold in blueberries.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes
Get ready to elevate your mashed potato game with this simple and indulgent recipe! With the added tanginess of buttermilk, these spuds are sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the potato cubes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the softened butter, buttermilk, salt, and pepper.
3. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until they’re smooth and creamy.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Buttermilk Pound Cake
Classic Buttermilk Pound Cake Recipe
Moist and flavorful, this buttermilk pound cake is a perfect dessert for any occasion. With its tender crumb and subtle tang from the buttermilk, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Beat in buttermilk and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Buttermilk Coleslaw
Get ready to add a tangy twist to your barbecue with this easy and delicious Buttermilk Coleslaw recipe! This classic Southern side dish is perfect for hot summer days, picnics, or as a topping for your favorite grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and carrots.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, buttermilk, cider vinegar, and sugar until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until everything is well coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling time)
Buttermilk Banana Bread
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the tanginess of buttermilk, resulting in a moist and flavorful bread that’s perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, buttermilk, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Buttermilk Chocolate Cake
Moist and rich, this buttermilk chocolate cake is a perfect treat for any occasion. With the tanginess of buttermilk and the depth of dark chocolate, it’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, whisking until smooth.
5. Melt chocolate chips in the microwave or in a double boiler; let cool slightly.
6. Fold melted chocolate into the batter until well combined.
7. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Buttermilk Scones
Start your day with a warm, flaky, and buttery treat – these buttermilk scones are perfect for breakfast or brunch. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying fresh-from-the-oven goodness in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup buttermilk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Pour in buttermilk and stir until dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
5. Turn dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times until it forms a cohesive mass.
6. Pat into an 8-inch circle, about 1 inch thick.
7. Cut into wedges and place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each scone.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Buttermilk Cinnamon Rolls
Warm Up with Buttermilk Cinnamon Rolls!
These soft, fluffy, and utterly delicious cinnamon rolls are infused with the tanginess of buttermilk, perfect for a cozy morning or afternoon treat. The combination of sweet and savory flavors will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water (100°F to 110°F)
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar; stir until dissolved.
3. Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the bowl; mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Gradually add buttermilk and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Roll out the dough into a 12-inch rectangle; spread with cinnamon mixture and roll up tightly.
6. Cut into 12 equal pieces, place on prepared baking sheet, and bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Buttermilk Ice Cream
Cool off with a scoop of this refreshing buttermilk ice cream that’s perfect for hot summer days. This unique flavor combines the tanginess of buttermilk with the richness of creamy vanilla.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 tablespoons buttermilk
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Add the melted butter, buttermilk, and vanilla extract to the mixture. Whisk until smooth.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Remove the bowl from the refrigerator and pour the mixture into an ice cream maker.
5. Churn according to manufacturer’s instructions until the desired consistency is reached.
6. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None (churning time varies depending on ice cream maker)
Buttermilk Mac and Cheese
A classic comfort food recipe with a tangy twist, this creamy buttermilk macaroni and cheese is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups buttermilk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, whisk together buttermilk, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and paprika over medium heat.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined.
6. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (if desired).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Buttermilk Crepes
Create delicate and flavorful crepes with this simple recipe. Buttermilk adds a tangy twist to the classic French dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and eggs.
2. Gradually add buttermilk and mix until smooth.
3. Add melted butter and whisk until fully incorporated.
4. Heat a small non-stick pan over medium heat.
5. Pour in 1/4 cup of batter and tilt to evenly coat the bottom.
6. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until edges start to curl.
7. Loosen with a spatula and flip.
8. Cook for an additional minute.
9. Repeat with remaining batter.
Cooking Time:
– Each crepe takes approximately 3-4 minutes to cook.
Buttermilk Donuts
These tender and fluffy buttermilk donuts are a classic treat that’s sure to please. With a hint of tanginess from the buttermilk, they’re perfect for snacking or serving at your next brunch gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup buttermilk
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and yeast.
3. Add milk, buttermilk, and salt. Mix until a smooth batter forms.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Punch down the dough and use a piping bag to pipe donuts onto the oil.
6. Fry donuts for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Drain excess oil with paper towels and dust with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Buttermilk Salad Dressing
This tangy and creamy salad dressing is a perfect addition to any green salad or as a dip for veggies. Made with the richness of buttermilk, the zip of lemon juice, and the warmth of spices, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together buttermilk, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and garlic powder until smooth.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Buttermilk Pie
A classic Southern dessert, buttermilk pie is a creamy and tangy delight that’s sure to please. This recipe yields a silky-smooth filling poured into a flaky pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 2 large eggs, separated
– Pastry dough for single-crust pie (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together melted butter, heavy cream, sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt until smooth.
3. Stir in buttermilk and egg yolks until well combined.
4. Beat egg whites until stiff peaks form; fold into the buttermilk mixture.
5. Roll out pastry dough to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with the buttermilk mixture.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until filling is set.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your cooking game with these 20 delicious and easy recipes that feature buttermilk as a main ingredient! From classic breakfast treats like fluffy pancakes and waffles, to savory dishes like fried chicken and mashed potatoes, to sweet indulgences like banana bread and chocolate cake, there’s something for everyone in this collection. And the best part? These recipes are all simple to make and require minimal ingredients, making them perfect for busy home cooks. So go ahead and give these buttermilk-based recipes a try – your taste buds will thank you!
