Wondering if you can freeze buttermilk? If you have extra on hand and don’t want to let it go to waste, here’s how to properly freeze it for later.
Yes, you can freeze buttermilk! Buttermilk is a fermented dairy product that is often used in baking to add tanginess and tenderness to baked goods. It’s also a common ingredient in many recipes, including pancakes, waffles, and ranch dressing.
What is Buttermilk Anyways?
Buttermilk is a type of fermented dairy product that is made from the liquid left behind after churning butter from cream. It is typically made from cow’s milk and has a slightly sour, tangy flavor due to the fermentation process.
It is a popular ingredient in many types of baked goods, as it adds moisture and tenderness to the finished product. Buttermilk is also often used as a marinade for meat, as the acidity helps to tenderize the meat and give it a more flavorful taste. Buttermilk is lower in fat compared to regular milk, as the fat content has been removed to make butter.
How to Freeze Buttermilk
To freeze buttermilk, start by transferring it to a container with a tight-fitting lid. You can use a plastic container or a resealable plastic bag. Make sure to leave about an inch of headspace at the top of the container to allow for expansion as the buttermilk freezes.
Next, label the container with the date and the contents, and place it in the freezer. Buttermilk will last for about 3-4 months in the freezer, but it’s best to use it within the first month or two for the best quality.
Thawing Frozen Buttermilk
When you’re ready to use the frozen buttermilk, transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw. It’s important to note that the consistency of the buttermilk may change slightly after freezing and thawing, so it’s best to use it in recipes that don’t require precise measurements.
One thing to keep in mind is that buttermilk can separate when it is frozen and thawed. This is normal and does not affect the quality or taste of the buttermilk. Simply give it a good stir before using it in your recipe.
Recipes That Use Buttermilk
Do you have frozen buttermilk that you’d like to use up? Here are some easy recipes that use buttermilk:
Blueberry Buttermilk Waffles
These fluffy buttermilk waffles are bursting with fresh blueberries! Serve with a drizzle of maple syrup, a dollop of whipped cream, and more fresh blueberries for an extra special breakfast treat.
Fluffy Buttermilk Pancakes
These light and fluffy buttermilk pancakes come together in a snap and are the perfect way to start your day. Top with fresh fruit and other favorite fixings.
Buttermilk Chocolate Sheet Cake
This homemade buttermilk chocolate cake recipe is a moist, fluffy chocolate cake with a dark chocolate buttermilk frosting. A decadent chocolate sheet cake that’s super easy to make.
Southern Buttermilk Pie
A classic southern pie recipe with a creamy custard filling and a golden, flakey crust.
Japanese Pancakes (Soufflé Pancakes!)
It doesn’t get much fluffier than these easy Japanese pancakes. These thick, soft soufflé pancakes are a fun twist on a classic that everyone loves!
Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp
Use buttermilk to tenderize proteins other than chicken, in this case: shrimp! Golden, crispy air fried shrimp are tossed in a sweet and spicy homemade bang bang sauce in this easy recipe.
Crispy Buttermilk Fried Chicken
It doesn’t get much better than tender chicken coated in a crunchy, golden topping. Serve with macaroni salad or mashed potatoes!
BLT Salad with Buttermilk Dressing
Made with fresh ripe tomatoes and crispy bacon, this hearty salad is tossed with a homemade buttermilk dill dressing. It’s creamy, tangy perfection!
KFC Coleslaw
Who doesn’t love KFC’s coleslaw? It’s a little sweet, a little tangy, and just 100% delicious. Now with only a few min of prep and a handful of ingredients, you can make it at home!
Sweet Buttermilk Cornbread
Sweet and tender buttermilk cornbread goes with pretty much anything. Serve it with chilis, stews, or your favorite bowl of soup.
How to Make Vegan Buttermilk
You can still enjoy any kind of buttermilk recipe with this simple homemade vegan buttermilk! It’s tangy, creamy and 100% plant-based.
Want even more recipe ideas that use buttermilk? Be sure to check out our recipe finder!