Buttermilk is a wonderful kitchen ingredient. It makes baked goods softer while adding a little tang, and I’ve never met a piece of fried chicken that wasn’t exponentially improved by a buttermilk brine. That being said, who else is guilty of letting a carton of buttermilk expire in their fridge? Buttermilk, for most people, is a specialty item you buy to make one recipe and then find yourself with quite a bit left over. However, if you’re in need of ways to put that buttermilk to use, you’ve come to the right place.
Yes, freezing it is a worthwhile option, but honestly, there are plenty of ways to use up this luscious, fermented dairy product — from biscuits and pancakes to coleslaw. Here are some of our favorite recipes that will help you use up that carton — and perhaps make you reconsider it as a pantry staple.
Salads and Slaws
Buttermilk lends creaminess and tang to salads and slaws — and, honestly, who doesn’t want that?
Biscuits and Breads
Buttermilk gives baked goods a softer texture, more body, and a hint of tang.
Pancakes and Waffles
Our very favorite pancakes and waffles call for buttermilk. Enough said.
Sweet Treats
Buttermilk desserts are worthy of buying a fresh carton or using one up.
More Buttermilk Recipes
There’s really no limit to what you can make with buttermilk, from mashed potatoes to fried green tomatoes.