What can I substitute for buttermilk powder?
Running low on buttermilk powder? Here are the best verified substitutes, including how to adjust your measurements.
About buttermilk powder
Buttermilk powder is dehydrated cultured buttermilk that has been spray-dried into a fine, shelf-stable powder. It delivers the characteristic tangy flavour and acidity of liquid buttermilk, activating bicarbonate of soda in baking and tenderising gluten for a soft, tender crumb. It is particularly valued for its convenience and long shelf life, making it a pantry staple for bakers who don't regularly use liquid buttermilk.
Best substitute
liquid buttermilk
Reconstituted or fresh liquid buttermilk is the closest equivalent, providing identical acidity and tang. Replace the powder and its associated water with liquid buttermilk, reducing other liquids in the recipe accordingly.
Use ¼ cup (60 ml) liquid buttermilk for every 4 tsp buttermilk powder plus the equivalent water called for in the recipe — reduce other liquids by 60 ml
bakingmarinadesdressingspancakesNot suitable for: dry mixesNot suitable for: dry rubs
Alternative
soured milk (milk and lemon juice)
Whole milk curdled with lemon juice or white vinegar mimics the acidity and tenderising properties of buttermilk. Add 1 tbsp of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of milk, stir, and allow to sit for 5–10 minutes until slightly curdled. Use the liquid equivalent in place of reconstituted buttermilk powder.
Use ¼ cup (60 ml) soured milk for every 4 tsp buttermilk powder plus the equivalent water — reduce other liquids by 60 ml
bakingpancakesmarinadesNot suitable for: dry mixesdry rubs
What is buttermilk powder called in other countries?
| Country | Name |
|---|---|
| Australia | buttermilk powder |
| Canada | powdered buttermilk |
| New Zealand | buttermilk powder |
| United Kingdom | buttermilk powder |
| United States | dry buttermilk |
Common names for buttermilk powder
dried buttermilkpowdered buttermilkdry buttermilk powder