Are you looking for a versatile ingredient that can elevate your baked goods, savory dishes, and even desserts? Look no further than buttermilk! This tangy and creamy condiment is a staple in many cuisines around the world. Whether you’re making fluffy pancakes or rich mashed potatoes, buttermilk adds a depth of flavor and moisture that’s hard to replicate with other ingredients.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious recipes that showcase the power of buttermilk. From classic breakfast treats like waffles and biscuits to comforting main courses and decadent desserts, we’ve got you covered. So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and discover the many uses of this humble ingredient.
Buttermilk Pancakes with Blueberry Compote
Start your weekend off right with a stack of fluffy buttermilk pancakes topped with a sweet and tangy blueberry compote. This recipe is perfect for a lazy Sunday morning or a special treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
For the pancakes:
– 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
For the blueberry compote:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, buttermilk, and eggs.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients; stir until just combined.
5. Cook pancakes on a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side.
6. While pancakes are cooking, combine blueberries, sugar, water, and lemon juice in a saucepan.
7. Bring to a simmer over medium heat; cook for 10-12 minutes or until compote thickens.
8. Serve pancakes with warm blueberry compote spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Southern Buttermilk Fried Chicken
This classic Southern recipe yields crispy, juicy fried chicken smothered in a tangy buttermilk marinade. Perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners.
Ingredients:
– 4 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they’re fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off.
5. Dredge the chicken pieces in flour, shaking off excess.
6. Fry the chicken for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Buttermilk Biscuits with Honey Butter
Sweet and flaky Buttermilk Biscuits paired with a rich Honey Butter make for the perfect breakfast or brunch treat.
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
– Honey Butter ingredients (below)
Honey Butter:
– 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons pure honey
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. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work the butter into the dry ingredients 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 2-3 times.
6. Roll out dough to about 1 inch (2.5 cm) thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Honey Butter:
1. Mix softened butter and honey in a small bowl until smooth.
2. Serve warm biscuits with a pat of Honey Butter on top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Buttermilk Ranch Dressing
Get ready to elevate your salad game with this tangy and creamy buttermilk ranch dressing! With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be whipping up a delicious condiment in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/4 cup buttermilk
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, and buttermilk until smooth.
2. Add the Dijon mustard, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well combined.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Cooking Time: None required!
Buttermilk Cornbread
Moist and crumbly, this classic buttermilk cornbread is a staple for any gathering. With its subtle tang from the buttermilk, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Honey or maple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, buttermilk, and honey or maple syrup (if using). Stir until just combined; do not overmix.
4. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Buttermilk Waffles with Maple Syrup
Start your day with a crispy and fluffy buttermilk waffle, perfectly balanced by the rich flavor of pure maple syrup. This classic breakfast treat is easy to make and sure to please.
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
– Pure maple syrup (optional)
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 large bowl, whisk together eggs, buttermilk, and melted butter.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the waffle iron and cook for 3-5 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Serve warm with a drizzle of pure maple syrup (if desired).
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on the number of waffles you make.
Buttermilk Pie with Cinnamon Crust
This classic Southern dessert is a perfect blend of tangy buttermilk, sweet sugar, and warm cinnamon. The flaky crust adds a delightful textural element to this creamy pie.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
For the filling:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the crust by combining flour, sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl. Add butter and mix until crumbs form.
3. Press crust mixture into a 9-inch pie dish.
4. Bake crust for 15 minutes or until lightly browned.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, buttermilk, sugar, egg yolks, and vanilla extract.
6. Pour filling over baked crust and smooth the top.
7. Bake for an additional 35-40 minutes or until filling is set.
Cooking Time: 50-55 minutes
Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your mashed potato game with this rich and creamy recipe that combines the tanginess of buttermilk with the comfort of classic mashed potatoes. Perfect for accompanying roasted meats, vegetables, or as a side dish on its own.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large Russet potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 1 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. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until smooth and creamy.
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Buttermilk Chocolate Cake
Moist and decadent, this buttermilk chocolate cake is a perfect treat for any occasion.
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 pure vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, whisking until just combined.
5. Melt chocolate chips in microwave or double boiler. Allow to cool slightly.
6. Fold melted chocolate into 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 Coleslaw
This classic coleslaw recipe gets a tangy twist with the addition of buttermilk, giving it a creamy and refreshing flavor. Perfect for topping burgers, grilled meats, or enjoying as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or dill (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and carrots.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, mayonnaise, cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until the slaw is well coated.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: None (preps in under 10 minutes)
Buttermilk Banana Bread
This classic recipe combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the tanginess of buttermilk, resulting in a moist and flavorful loaf that’s perfect for snacking or serving as a breakfast treat.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, butter, buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Buttermilk Ice Cream
Rich and creamy buttermilk ice cream is a refreshing summer treat that’s surprisingly easy to make. This recipe uses the tanginess of buttermilk to balance out the sweetness, resulting in a unique and delicious flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the melted butter and buttermilk until well combined.
3. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Once frozen, transfer to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus chilling time)
Buttermilk Scones with Clotted Cream
Experience the quintessential British treat with these tender and flaky buttermilk scones, perfectly paired with a generous dollop of clotted cream.
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
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
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. Add cold butter; use a pastry blender or fingers to work into a crumbly mixture.
3. Pour in buttermilk; stir until dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
4. Turn dough onto a floured surface; gently knead 2-3 times.
5. Pat into a circle about 1 inch thick.
6. Cut into wedges; place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each scone.
7. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Serve:
– Split warm scones and top with clotted cream, jam, or your favorite spread.
Buttermilk Marinated Grilled Chicken
Buttermilk marinated grilled chicken is a game-changer. The tangy buttermilk mixture tenderizes the meat while infusing it with flavor, making this recipe a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, olive oil, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Let chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Buttermilk Cheddar Biscuits
Buttermilk Cheddar Biscuits Recipe
These buttery, cheesy biscuits are a perfect accompaniment to any meal or snack. Made with the tanginess of buttermilk and the richness of cheddar cheese, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
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
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cold butter to dry ingredients and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into a crumbly mixture.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk and cheddar cheese until smooth.
5. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
6. Roll out dough on a floured surface to 1-inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
7. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until biscuits are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Buttermilk Donuts with Glaze
Treat yourself to a classic dessert with these tender and fluffy buttermilk donuts, topped with a sweet and tangy glaze. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack, these donuts are sure to please.
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
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
– Glaze (recipe below)
Donut Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, and yeast in a large bowl.
3. Add milk, egg, and melted butter; mix until smooth.
4. Stir in buttermilk and let rest for 5 minutes.
5. Pipe into donut shapes using a piping bag or spoonfuls of dough dropped into the oil.
6. Fry for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Drain excess oil with paper towels.
Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons whole milk
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Mix together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Dip donuts in glaze, allowing excess to drip off.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch (depending on size of donuts)
Buttermilk Panna Cotta with Berries
Panna cotta, an Italian dessert, is elevated by the tanginess of buttermilk and the sweetness of fresh berries. This creamy treat is perfect for warm weather gatherings or a light dessert any time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– Salt to taste
– Fresh berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries) for serving
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, butter, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and buttermilk. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the mixture to thicken slightly.
3. Pour the mixture into small individual serving cups or a large baking dish. Refrigerate until set, about 4 hours or overnight.
4. Serve chilled, topped with fresh berries.
Cooking Time: 5-10 minutes
Buttermilk Roasted Potatoes
Buttermilk Roasted Potatoes Recipe
Buttermilk Crepes with Lemon Curd
Add a touch of French flair to your breakfast or brunch with these delicate buttermilk crepes filled with a tangy and sweet lemon curd. This classic combination is sure to delight!
Ingredients:
For the crepes:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
For the lemon curd:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large egg yolks
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or crepe pan over medium heat.
2. Whisk together flour, eggs, buttermilk, and salt. Add melted butter and whisk until smooth.
3. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter into the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, until edges start to curl.
4. Loosen with a spatula and flip. Cook for another minute.
5. Fill crepes with lemon curd (see below). Roll up and serve.
Lemon Curd:
1. Beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Beat in egg yolks, then gradually add lemon juice and zest.
3. Simmer over low heat, whisking constantly, until thickened (about 5 minutes).
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes for crepes, plus 5 minutes for lemon curd.
Buttermilk Pound Cake
Buttermilk Pound Cake Recipe
Moist and flavorful, this classic pound cake gets an extra boost of tenderness from the addition of buttermilk. Perfect for snacking or serving as a dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups (285g) all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add flour mixture, alternating with buttermilk, beginning and ending with flour mixture. Beat just until combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the creamy richness of buttermilk with these 20 mouthwatering recipes! From sweet treats like Buttermilk Pancakes with Blueberry Compote and Buttermilk Banana Bread, to savory delights like Southern Buttermilk Fried Chicken and Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes, there’s something for every occasion. Try your hand at making Buttermilk Biscuits with Honey Butter or whip up a batch of creamy Buttermilk Ranch Dressing. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food or a special dessert, these buttermilk recipes are sure to please.