How to Substitute Buttermilk With Water (5 Steps)

Even the most prepared baker may need to substitute an ingredient at some point in baking. A simple substitution of water and buttermilk powder will work in place of buttermilk. Buttermilk powder is created by drying the liquid and omitting lactic acid or cultures while still retaining its nutrients. Buttermilk powder and water can be used in nearly any recipe that requires liquid buttermilk such as buttermilk biscuits, pancakes, cookies and pies.

Things You'll Need

  • 1 cup water
  • 1/4 cup buttermilk powder
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Spoon

Instructions

  1. Fill 1 cup with water. Water that is room temperature will better dissolve the powder.

  2. Measure 1/4 cup of buttermilk powder. Do not pack the powder into the cup. Use natural motions to scoop or pour the powder into the measuring cup.

  3. Pour the measured water into the bowl. Add the measured buttermilk powder.

  4. Stir water and buttermilk mixture until the powder is completely dissolved. Stir any powder clumps until they are dissolved.

  5. Use the buttermilk substitute in your recipe. Adjust measurements according to your recipe's needs.