When it comes to cooking, one ingredient that can elevate your dishes from ordinary to extraordinary is buttermilk. With its tangy flavor and creamy texture, buttermilk is a versatile ingredient that can be used in both sweet and savory recipes. From breakfast treats like pancakes and waffles to comforting side dishes like mashed potatoes and cornbread, buttermilk adds a richness and depth of flavor that’s hard to replicate with other ingredients.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious easy recipes that feature buttermilk as the star ingredient. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to become new favorites. So grab your mixing bowls and let’s get started!
Fluffy Buttermilk Pancakes
Start your day off right with these tender and flavorful pancakes made with buttermilk and a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
– Vegetable oil or cooking spray for greasing the pan
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. The batter should still be slightly lumpy.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grease with vegetable oil or cooking spray if necessary.
5. Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, scoop the batter onto the pan.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip the pancakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (4-6 pancakes)
Buttermilk Fried Chicken
A Southern staple, buttermilk fried chicken is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. This recipe yields crispy, juicy, and tender pieces of chicken that are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 tsp paprika
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
2. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan or electric skillet to 350°F.
4. Remove chicken from marinade, allowing excess to drip off.
5. Dredge chicken in flour, shaking off excess.
6. Fry chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through (about 8-10 minutes per batch).
7. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Buttermilk Biscuits
Buttermilk biscuits are a classic Southern treat that’s surprisingly simple to make. With just a few ingredients and some quick mixing, you’ll have a batch of tender, flaky biscuits perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a side dish.
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 bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cut the cold butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Add buttermilk and stir until the dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times until it forms a cohesive ball.
6. Roll out the dough to about 1 inch (2.5 cm) thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a biscuit cutter or glass.
7. Place biscuits on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) space between each biscuit.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Buttermilk Ranch Dressing
Get ready to elevate your salad game with this rich and tangy buttermilk ranch dressing. Perfect for topping greens, veggies, or even using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon white vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– Chopped fresh dill, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, yogurt, vinegar, mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Add buttermilk and whisk until well combined.
3. Refrigerate dressing for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: None
Buttermilk Cornbread
Classic Buttermilk Cornbread Recipe
Get ready for a warm, crumbly, and utterly delicious cornbread that’s perfect for any occasion! This simple recipe combines the richness of buttermilk with the sweetness of corn to create a mouthwatering treat.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, sugar, egg, and melted butter.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Pour into a greased 8-inch square baking dish and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Buttermilk Waffles
Start your day with a crispy and fluffy stack of buttermilk waffles, perfect for topping with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 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 manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs and buttermilk until smooth.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Fold in melted butter.
6. Cook waffles according to iron’s instructions (usually 3-5 minutes).
7. Serve warm with your favorite toppings!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on waffle iron)
Buttermilk Blueberry Muffins
Start your day with a sweet and tangy treat – these Buttermilk Blueberry Muffins are perfect for breakfast or a snack. The combination of buttermilk, blueberries, and a hint of vanilla creates a moist and flavorful baked good that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons pure 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 dry ingredients to 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 into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Buttermilk Pound Cake
Classic Buttermilk Pound Cake Recipe
A moist and buttery pound cake infused with the tanginess of buttermilk, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Gradually add sugar; beat until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by buttermilk.
5. Gradually add flour mixture to wet ingredients; mix until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your mashed potato game with this simple recipe that adds a tangy twist from buttermilk. Perfect for accompanying roasted meats or as a side dish on its own.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Place the chopped potatoes 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 buttermilk, butter, salt, and pepper.
3. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until they’re smooth and creamy.
4. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Buttermilk Coleslaw
This classic coleslaw recipe gets a tangy twist with the addition of buttermilk, making it a perfect side dish for grilled meats, sandwiches, and picnics.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons buttermilk
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon 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, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until coated.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve cold.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is best served chilled or at room temperature.
Buttermilk Banana Bread
Moist and flavorful banana bread is a classic treat that’s perfect for any time of day. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the tanginess of buttermilk to create a deliciously moist loaf.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine sugar, mashed bananas, and softened butter. Beat until smooth.
3. Add buttermilk, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture. Mix until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Buttermilk Chocolate Cake
Rich and moist, this Buttermilk Chocolate Cake is a decadent treat that’s sure to satisfy any chocolate craving. With the tanginess of buttermilk and the depth of dark chocolate, this cake is a perfect combination for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and buttermilk. Beat until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Melt chocolate chips in microwave or on the stovetop; let cool slightly. Fold into batter.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Buttermilk Scones
These classic British treats are a staple of any afternoon tea party. Made with buttermilk, butter, and a touch of sugar, these scones are tender, flaky, and utterly delicious.
Ingredients:
– 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 to dry ingredients and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work the butter into the mixture until it 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 a few times until it comes together.
6. Pat dough into a circle about 1 inch thick. Cut into wedges or use a biscuit cutter to create shapes.
7. Place scones on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Buttermilk Ice Cream
This recipe yields a rich and creamy ice cream with a subtle tang from the buttermilk. Perfect for hot summer days, this unique flavor is sure to impress your friends and family.
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 vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar until the sugar is fully 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 mixture from the refrigerator and pour it into an ice cream maker.
5. Churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Once churned, transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and place in the freezer to harden for at least 2 hours.
Cooking Time: None (this recipe uses an ice cream maker)
Buttermilk Cinnamon Rolls
Start your day with a warm and comforting breakfast treat – these soft, fluffy, and utterly delicious buttermilk cinnamon rolls. With the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and sugar.
2. Add warm water, buttermilk, and melted butter. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (6 mm).
5. Spread cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch (2.5 cm) border.
6. Roll up the dough tightly and cut into 12 equal pieces.
7. Place rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space for expansion.
8. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Buttermilk Mac and Cheese
This comforting casserole combines al dente pasta with a rich and tangy buttermilk-based cheese sauce, perfect for a cozy night in. With its creamy texture and hint of tanginess, this recipe 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
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
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 medium saucepan, whisk together buttermilk, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and butter until smooth.
4. Add salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked macaroni and buttermilk mixture in a large mixing bowl.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Buttermilk Pie
This traditional Southern dessert is a tangy and creamy delight that’s sure to please. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a show-stopping pie that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday treats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Pour mixture into a 9-inch pie dish and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until filling is set.
5. Allow pie to cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Buttermilk Salad Dressing
Enhance your salads with this tangy and creamy buttermilk dressing! With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious condiment that’s perfect for topping mixed greens, vegetables, and more.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon white vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, buttermilk, and chopped dill until smooth.
2. Add the white vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well combined.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None! Simply prepare and refrigerate.
Buttermilk Donuts
Get ready to indulge your taste buds with these tender and fluffy Buttermilk Donuts! Made with a hint of tanginess from the buttermilk, these donuts are a delightful treat for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 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 bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and yeast.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and buttermilk.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until a smooth batter forms.
5. Pipe the batter into donut shapes and fry for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Drain excess oil and dust with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Buttermilk Crepes
Get ready to impress your family and friends with these tender and flavorful buttermilk crepes, perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. This classic French dessert is a cinch to make and can be filled with your favorite sweet or savory ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 1/2 teaspoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 3 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and buttermilk.
3. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until smooth.
4. Add melted butter and whisk until well combined.
5. Heat a small non-stick pan over medium heat. Brush with a little butter.
6. Pour 1/4 cup batter into the pan and tilt to coat evenly.
7. Cook for 2 minutes, then flip and cook for another minute.
8. Repeat with remaining batter.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tips:
– Use high-quality buttermilk for the best flavor.
– Don’t overmix the batter or crepes may be tough.
– Fill with your favorite sweet or savory ingredients, such as fruit, whipped cream, or ham and cheese.
Summary
Discover the versatility of buttermilk with these 20 delicious and easy-to-make recipes. From breakfast treats like fluffy pancakes and waffles to savory dishes such as fried chicken and mac and cheese, buttermilk adds a tangy twist to any meal. Indulge in sweet treats like banana bread, chocolate cake, and cinnamon rolls, or make a statement with creamy desserts like ice cream and pie. With recipes ranging from classic comfort food to innovative twists, you’ll find the perfect way to incorporate this iconic ingredient into your cooking routine.
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