Milk is a kitchen staple, but many recipes call for buttermilk instead. That leads to the big question: what’s the difference between buttermilk and milk? While both come from dairy, they differ in flavor, texture, and how they react in cooking. Understanding when to use each can make your pancakes fluffier, your fried chicken crispier, and your baked goods rise better.
Quick Answer: Buttermilk vs Milk
- Milk: Creamy, mild flavor. Used in drinking, cooking, baking, and frothing.
- Buttermilk: Tangy, slightly thick texture. Traditionally the liquid left after churning butter, but today it’s usually cultured milk with added bacteria for tang.
- Main Difference: Buttermilk is acidic, which reacts with baking soda/powder to make baked goods lighter and fluffier.
Nutrition Comparison (1 Cup)
| Type | Calories | Protein | Fat | Carbs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Whole Milk | 150 | 8g | 8g | 12g |
| Low-Fat Milk | 100 | 8g | 2.5g | 12g |
| Buttermilk | 100 | 8g | 2g | 12g |
Cooking Uses
When to Use Milk
- Drinking, smoothies, and cereals
- Cooking creamy sauces and soups
- Making lattes and cappuccinos
When to Use Buttermilk
- Baking cakes, muffins, and biscuits
- Marinating fried chicken for tenderness
- Adding tang to dressings and dips
Can You Substitute Buttermilk for Milk?
Yes, but with adjustments. Buttermilk is acidic, so you may need to balance baking soda and baking powder. For milk-based recipes, you can make a quick substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
Quick Picks: Best Kitchen Tools for Milk & Buttermilk Recipes
- Best Overall: KitchenAid Artisan Stand Mixer – Essential for baking with buttermilk.
- Best Budget: NutriBullet Blender – Perfect for smoothies and milkshakes.
- Best Premium: Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine – For milk steaming and frothing.
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing Kitchen Tools for Dairy Recipes
- Stand Mixers: Great for mixing buttermilk-based batters evenly.
- Blenders: Ideal for milk-based drinks and smoothies.
- Espresso Machines: For perfectly steamed milk in lattes and cappuccinos.
- Storage Containers: Airtight glass jars for storing leftover buttermilk.
- Measuring Tools: Precision is key when swapping milk and buttermilk.
Detailed Reviews: Best Tools for Buttermilk & Milk
KitchenAid Artisan Stand Mixer
Who it’s for: Bakers who regularly use buttermilk in recipes.
- Key Benefits: 10 speeds, tilt-head design, multiple attachments.
- Pros: Durable, versatile, perfect for batters and doughs.
- Cons: Heavy, premium price.
Final Verdict: The best investment for baking with buttermilk. Check price.
NutriBullet Blender
Who it’s for: Anyone who enjoys milkshakes, smoothies, or quick recipes.
- Key Benefits: Compact design, powerful motor, easy cleanup.
- Pros: Affordable, efficient, beginner-friendly.
- Cons: Smaller capacity than full-size blenders.
Final Verdict: A great budget blender for milk drinks. Order here.
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine
Who it’s for: Coffee lovers who want barista-quality milk frothing at home.
- Key Benefits: Built-in grinder, steam wand, precise temperature control.
- Pros: Professional results, durable build, versatile.
- Cons: Expensive, learning curve.
Final Verdict: The ultimate premium pick for milk-based drinks. See details.
Le Parfait French Glass Jars
Who it’s for: Anyone storing buttermilk or fresh milk safely.
- Key Benefits: Airtight seal, reusable, stylish design.
- Pros: Preserves freshness, eco-friendly, versatile.
- Cons: Glass can break if dropped.
Final Verdict: Best for storing dairy. Shop now.
OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Measuring Set
Who it’s for: Cooks who need precise measuring for substitutions.
- Key Benefits: Magnetic handles, etched measurement marks, dishwasher safe.
- Pros: Durable, accurate, easy to use.
- Cons: Pricier than basic measuring spoons.
Final Verdict: The best measuring set for dairy recipes. View price.
Comparison Table
| Product | Best For | Material | Price Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| KitchenAid Stand Mixer | Baking with buttermilk | Steel + enamel finish | View Price |
| NutriBullet Blender | Smoothies & milkshakes | Plastic + stainless steel | View Price |
| Breville Espresso Machine | Milk steaming & frothing | Stainless steel | View Price |
| Le Parfait Glass Jars | Storing buttermilk | Glass + metal | View Price |
| OXO Measuring Set | Accurate substitution | Stainless steel | View Price |
FAQ: Buttermilk vs Milk
Can I drink buttermilk like milk?
Yes, though it’s tangier. In many cultures, buttermilk is a refreshing beverage.
Why does buttermilk make baked goods fluffier?
Its acidity reacts with baking soda/powder, creating air bubbles for a lighter texture.
Can I make buttermilk at home?
Yes. Add 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup milk, let sit 5–10 minutes.
Is buttermilk healthier than milk?
Buttermilk is lower in fat and calories than whole milk, while still rich in protein and calcium.
Conclusion
Milk is creamy and versatile, while buttermilk is tangy and acidic—perfect for baking and marinating. Both are valuable in the kitchen, but knowing when to use each makes a huge difference in results.
For best results, invest in tools like the KitchenAid Stand Mixer for baking, or the Breville Barista Express for milk frothing at home.
Shop the best kitchen tools today and make the most of milk and buttermilk in your recipes.