Using Milk + Lemon Juice Instead of Buttermilk

Reviewed by the CupOrGram Editorial TeamSources: King Arthur Baking, USDA FoodData CentralMethodology
Ratio
1 cup milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice, let sit 5 minutes
Excellent — nearly identical results

Recipe Adjustment Notes

The acid curdles the milk, mimicking buttermilk's acidity and thickness.

Measurement Variance Note

For 1 cup references, this ingredient can vary by about 6% across brands and measuring methods (230g-260g per cup). For the most reliable substitution result, measure by weight and test a half batch first.

How Milk + Lemon Juice Compares for Buttermilk

Quality rating: excellent. The acid curdles the milk, mimicking buttermilk's acidity and thickness.

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