Plain Yogurt + Water Substitute for Buttermilk: Exact Ratio
Looking for a buttermilk substitute? Plain Yogurt + Water works as a direct replacement. Use 3/4 cup yogurt + 1/4 cup water in any recipe that calls for buttermilk. This swap works best for baking, dressings, marinades.
Best Substitute
Plain Yogurt + Water
3/4 cup yogurt + 1/4 cup water
Whisk until smooth. Provides similar tang and acidity to buttermilk.
Flavor & Texture Change
Richer and tangier than buttermilk. Baked goods may be slightly denser but with better flavor depth. Works excellently in pancakes and waffles.
When Not to Use
Do not use flavored or sweetened yogurt. Greek yogurt needs more water (1:1 ratio) than regular yogurt. Over-thinning creates a watery substitute that won't perform well.
Tips When Replacing Buttermilk in Recipes
Buttermilk's acidity activates baking soda, creating lift and tenderness. Any substitute must be acidic to replicate this chemical reaction. It also tenderizes gluten, making baked goods softer.
What Is Buttermilk and Why Substitute It?
A tangy, slightly thick fermented dairy product used in baking and marinades. Its acidity reacts with leavening agents to create lift in baked goods and tenderizes proteins in marinades.
Plain Yogurt + Water is one of 6 alternatives you can use instead of buttermilk. For a complete list of buttermilk substitutes with ratios and cooking tips, visit the full buttermilk substitute page.
What Else Can I Use Instead of Buttermilk?
Milk + Lemon Juice instead of Buttermilk
View substitute ratio →
Milk + White Vinegar instead of Buttermilk
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Sour Cream + Water instead of Buttermilk
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Cream of Tartar + Milk instead of Buttermilk
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Plant Milk + Lemon Juice instead of Buttermilk
View substitute ratio →
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use plain yogurt + water instead of buttermilk?
Yes, you can use plain yogurt + water as a substitute for buttermilk. Use 3/4 cup yogurt + 1/4 cup water. Whisk until smooth. Provides similar tang and acidity to buttermilk.
How much plain yogurt + water equals buttermilk?
Use 3/4 cup yogurt + 1/4 cup water to replace buttermilk with plain yogurt + water. Works best for baking, dressings, marinades.
What is the best substitute for buttermilk?
Plain Yogurt + Water is a popular substitute for buttermilk. Use 3/4 cup yogurt + 1/4 cup water for a 1-to-1 replacement. See all 6 alternatives on our buttermilk substitute page.
Does plain yogurt + water change the taste when replacing buttermilk?
Do not use flavored or sweetened yogurt. Greek yogurt needs more water (1:1 ratio) than regular yogurt. Over-thinning creates a watery substitute that won't perform well.