Yogurt Substitute for Baking: Best Alternatives
Find the best yogurt substitutes for baking including sour cream, buttermilk, and applesauce. Learn ratios, tips, and which works best for different baked goods.
Quick Answer
The best yogurt substitutes for baking are sour cream (1:1 ratio), buttermilk (1:1 ratio), and applesauce (1:1 ratio). Sour cream works best for cakes and muffins, buttermilk for pancakes and biscuits, and applesauce for reducing fat content.
Best Substitutes
Sour Cream
1:1Rich, tangy substitute with similar texture and moisture content to yogurt
Best for:
Provides similar moisture and tanginess, slightly richer flavor than yogurt
Buttermilk
1:1Tangy liquid substitute that adds moisture and helps with leavening
Best for:
Liquid form, may need to adjust other liquids in recipe
Applesauce
1:1Healthy substitute that adds moisture and natural sweetness
Best for:
Adds sweetness, reduces fat content, may affect texture slightly
Greek Yogurt
1:1Thicker, more protein-rich alternative to regular yogurt
Best for:
Thicker than regular yogurt, may need to thin with milk
Cottage Cheese (Blended)
1:1High-protein substitute with similar tanginess
Best for:
Blend until smooth, provides protein and tanginess
Mashed Banana
1:1Natural substitute that adds moisture and sweetness
Best for:
Adds banana flavor and natural sweetness
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best substitute for yogurt in baking?
Sour cream is the best substitute for yogurt in baking because it provides similar moisture, tanginess, and texture. Use a 1:1 ratio for best results.
Can I use buttermilk instead of yogurt in baking?
Yes, buttermilk works well as a yogurt substitute in baking, especially for pancakes and biscuits. Use a 1:1 ratio, but you may need to adjust other liquids in the recipe.
Can I use applesauce instead of yogurt in baking?
Yes, applesauce can be used as a yogurt substitute in baking. It adds moisture and natural sweetness while reducing fat content. Use a 1:1 ratio.
What can I substitute for yogurt in muffins?
For muffins, sour cream or buttermilk work best as yogurt substitutes. Sour cream provides similar texture, while buttermilk adds leavening properties.
What's the ratio for substituting yogurt in baking?
Use a 1:1 ratio when substituting for yogurt in baking. This means if a recipe calls for 1 cup of yogurt, use 1 cup of your chosen substitute.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of regular yogurt in baking?
Yes, Greek yogurt can be used instead of regular yogurt in baking. It's thicker and more protein-rich, so you may need to thin it with a little milk.
What's the best substitute for yogurt in pancakes?
Buttermilk is the best substitute for yogurt in pancakes because it provides the tanginess and leavening properties needed for fluffy pancakes.
Can I use cottage cheese instead of yogurt in baking?
Yes, but blend cottage cheese until smooth first. It provides similar protein content and tanginess, making it a good substitute for yogurt in baking.
What's the best substitute for yogurt in cheesecake?
Cream cheese or blended cottage cheese work best as yogurt substitutes in cheesecake. They provide the rich, creamy texture needed for authentic cheesecake.
Can I use mashed banana instead of yogurt in baking?
Yes, mashed banana can be used as a yogurt substitute in baking. It adds moisture and natural sweetness, but will add banana flavor to your baked goods.
Summary
Find the best yogurt substitutes for baking including sour cream, buttermilk, and applesauce. Learn ratios, tips, and which works best for different baked goods.