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Lemon Juice Substitute for Buttermilk: Complete Guide

Learn how to use lemon juice substitutes to make buttermilk. Discover the perfect ratios and techniques for creating homemade buttermilk alternatives.

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Quick Answer

To make buttermilk with lemon juice substitutes, mix 1 tablespoon of your chosen substitute with 1 cup of milk and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. Use lime juice, white wine vinegar, or apple cider vinegar as alternatives.

Best Substitutes

Lime Juice + Milk

1 tbsp lime juice + 1 cup milk

Similar acidity to lemon juice for buttermilk

Best for:

Making buttermilk substituteBaking recipesPancakes and wafflesBiscuits

Let sit for 5-10 minutes to thicken. Slightly sweeter than lemon.

White Wine Vinegar + Milk

1 tbsp white wine vinegar + 1 cup milk

Clean acidity without citrus flavor

Best for:

When you want buttermilk without citrus tasteNeutral-flavored baked goodsClassic buttermilk recipes

Let sit for 5-10 minutes to thicken. No citrus flavor.

Apple Cider Vinegar + Milk

1 tbsp apple cider vinegar + 1 cup milk

Mild acidity with fruity notes

Best for:

Fall-inspired baked goodsSpice cakesPumpkin bread

Let sit for 5-10 minutes to thicken. Slightly sweeter than lemon.

Citric Acid + Milk

1/4 tsp citric acid + 1 cup milk

Pure acidity without flavor

Best for:

When you want buttermilk without any flavor impactDelicate baked goodsWhite cakes

Let sit for 5-10 minutes to thicken. No flavor impact.

Cooking Tips

  • 💡The acid in lemon juice (or substitutes) curdles the milk, creating buttermilk
  • 💡Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes to thicken properly
  • 💡Use whole milk for the best results, but any milk will work
  • 💡The mixture should thicken and have a slightly tangy taste
  • 💡Use immediately after it thickens for best results
  • 💡This method works for both dairy and plant-based milks

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make buttermilk with lemon juice substitutes?

Mix 1 tablespoon of your chosen substitute (lime juice, vinegar, or citric acid) with 1 cup of milk and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. The acid will curdle the milk, creating a buttermilk-like consistency.

Can I use any milk to make buttermilk?

Yes, you can use any type of milk - whole, 2%, skim, or even plant-based milks like almond or soy milk. Whole milk will give you the creamiest results.

How long should I let the mixture sit?

Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the acid to curdle the milk and create the buttermilk consistency. You'll know it's ready when it thickens slightly and has a tangy taste.

Will the substitute affect the taste of my baked goods?

In most baked goods, the flavor difference is minimal. Lime juice will add a slight citrus note, while vinegar will be neutral. Citric acid won't add any flavor at all.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can make buttermilk substitute ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a stir before using as it may separate slightly.

Summary

Learn how to use lemon juice substitutes to make buttermilk. Discover the perfect ratios and techniques for creating homemade buttermilk alternatives.