Buttermilk Substitute for Cream of Tartar: Exact Ratio
Looking for a cream of tartar substitute? Buttermilk works as a direct replacement. Use 1 tsp cream of tartar = 1/2 cup buttermilk (reduce other liquid by 1/2 cup) in any recipe that calls for cream of tartar. This swap works best for biscuits, cornbread, waffles.
Best Substitute
Buttermilk
1 tsp cream of tartar = 1/2 cup buttermilk (reduce other liquid by 1/2 cup)
Like yogurt, buttermilk provides natural acidity. Replace an equal amount of milk or other liquid in the recipe.
Tips When Replacing Cream of Tartar in Recipes
For stabilizing whipped egg whites (meringue), cream of tartar is uniquely effective. Lemon juice is the best substitute for this purpose—add 1/2 tsp per 2-3 egg whites. Cream of tartar also prevents sugar syrups from crystallizing.
What Is Cream of Tartar and Why Substitute It?
Potassium bitartrate, an acidic byproduct of winemaking used to stabilize egg whites, prevent sugar crystallization, and activate baking soda.
Buttermilk is one of 5 alternatives you can use instead of cream of tartar. For a complete list of cream of tartar substitutes with ratios and cooking tips, visit the full cream of tartar substitute page.
What Else Can I Use Instead of Cream of Tartar?
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use buttermilk instead of cream of tartar?
Yes, you can use buttermilk as a substitute for cream of tartar. Use 1 tsp cream of tartar = 1/2 cup buttermilk (reduce other liquid by 1/2 cup). Like yogurt, buttermilk provides natural acidity. Replace an equal amount of milk or other liquid in the recipe.
How much buttermilk equals cream of tartar?
Use 1 tsp cream of tartar = 1/2 cup buttermilk (reduce other liquid by 1/2 cup) to replace cream of tartar with buttermilk. Works best for biscuits, cornbread, waffles.
What is the best substitute for cream of tartar?
Buttermilk is a popular substitute for cream of tartar. Use 1 tsp cream of tartar = 1/2 cup buttermilk (reduce other liquid by 1/2 cup) for a 1-to-1 replacement. See all 5 alternatives on our cream of tartar substitute page.