Both buttermilk and sour cream are tangy dairy products used in baking, cooking, and sauces. While they share some similarities, their textures, flavors, and functions in recipes are different. If you’ve ever wondered what’s the difference between buttermilk and sour cream, this guide will break it down clearly and show you which one to use for your next dish.
Quick Answer
- Buttermilk: A tangy, pourable liquid with a thin consistency, used for baking, marinades, and dressings.
- Sour Cream: A thick, creamy dairy product used for dips, toppings, and adding richness to baked goods.
What Is Buttermilk?
Traditionally, buttermilk was the liquid left after churning butter. Today, it’s usually cultured low-fat milk fermented with lactic acid bacteria. This gives it a tart taste and thicker texture than regular milk, though it’s still pourable.
- Flavor: Tangy, slightly sour.
- Texture: Thin and pourable, like drinkable yogurt.
- Uses: Pancakes, biscuits, cornbread, marinades, salad dressings.
What Is Sour Cream?
Sour cream is made by fermenting cream with lactic acid bacteria, giving it a thick, rich consistency. It’s a staple for dips, baked potatoes, and as a base for creamy sauces.
- Flavor: Tangy, slightly buttery.
- Texture: Thick, spreadable, creamy.
- Uses: Dips, baked potatoes, cheesecakes, coffee cakes, frosting.
Buttermilk vs Sour Cream in Cooking
- Baking: Buttermilk helps baked goods rise (its acidity reacts with baking soda). Sour cream adds moisture and richness but less lift.
- Sauces: Buttermilk creates lighter, tangier dressings. Sour cream makes thicker dips and creamy sauces.
- Marinades: Buttermilk is excellent for tenderizing meats (like fried chicken). Sour cream is less common as a marinade base.
- Calories: Buttermilk is generally lower in fat and calories than sour cream.
Substitution Tips
- Using Buttermilk instead of Sour Cream: Works in baked goods for tang, but texture will be lighter. Add a bit of butter or oil for richness.
- Using Sour Cream instead of Buttermilk: Thin with milk or water to mimic buttermilk’s consistency in batters.
- DIY Buttermilk: Mix 1 cup milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar. Let sit 5 minutes before use.
Quick Picks: Best Kitchen Tools for Dairy-Based Recipes
- Best Overall: KitchenAid Artisan Stand Mixer — Perfect for baking with buttermilk or sour cream.
- Best Budget: OXO Good Grips Mixing Bowls — Affordable, non-slip bowls for mixing batters and creams.
- Best Premium: Vitamix Ascent Blender — Excellent for making dressings, marinades, and creamy sauces.
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing Tools for Buttermilk & Sour Cream Recipes
- Mixers: Essential for combining wet and dry ingredients smoothly.
- Blenders: Great for emulsifying buttermilk dressings or blending sour cream sauces.
- Bowls: Non-slip bases keep mixing stable.
- Storage Containers: Airtight containers extend shelf life of both buttermilk and sour cream.
Comparison Table: Buttermilk vs Sour Cream
| Feature | Buttermilk | Sour Cream |
|---|---|---|
| Consistency | Thin, pourable | Thick, creamy |
| Flavor | Tangy, tart | Tangy, buttery |
| Best Uses | Pancakes, biscuits, marinades | Dips, toppings, cheesecakes |
| Calories | Lower | Higher |
| Substitution | Thicker if swapped with sour cream | Thin with milk to mimic buttermilk |
FAQ
Can I use buttermilk instead of sour cream in baking?
Yes, but the texture will be lighter. Add a little fat (oil or butter) for richness.
Is sour cream healthier than buttermilk?
Not usually. Buttermilk is lower in fat and calories, while sour cream is richer and higher in fat.
How long do they last in the fridge?
Buttermilk lasts about 2 weeks, while sour cream lasts 2–3 weeks if stored properly.
Can I freeze buttermilk or sour cream?
Yes, but textures may change. Frozen buttermilk is fine for baking. Sour cream can become grainy after freezing.
Conclusion
Buttermilk and sour cream are both tangy dairy products, but they serve different roles in cooking. Use buttermilk when you need lift, tang, and tenderizing power. Choose sour cream for creamy richness and thickness.
For best results in the kitchen, pair your ingredients with the right tools. A KitchenAid Stand Mixer and a Vitamix Blender make baking and sauce-making effortless.
Shop the best kitchen tools today and elevate your buttermilk and sour cream recipes.