If you love the idea of a syrup that’s creamy, tangy, and decadently sweet all at once, then you’re in for a treat with this Homemade Buttermilk Syrup Recipe. This syrup takes classic breakfast to the next level, bringing a warm, buttery richness with a surprise zing from the buttermilk. Whether drizzled over pancakes, waffles, or even fresh fruit, it’s a delightful way to elevate your morning routine with a uniquely comforting flavor that feels like a hug in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this Homemade Buttermilk Syrup Recipe is all about simplicity and balance. Each element plays a crucial role in creating that perfect harmony of tangy, sweet, and buttery flavors that define this syrup’s charm.
- 1 cup buttermilk: This is the star ingredient that gives the syrup its unique tangy flavor and creamy texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Provides sweetness and helps to create that thick, syrupy consistency.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Adds richness and depth to the syrup.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the syrup with a warm, floral note.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps to create a lighter texture and a slight fizz for a perfect finish.
How to Make Homemade Buttermilk Syrup Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Base Ingredients
Start by adding the buttermilk, granulated sugar, and unsalted butter into a medium saucepan. Give it a gentle stir to bring everything together. You’ll notice the sugar begins to dissolve right away, setting the stage for that luscious syrupy texture.
Step 2: Heat and Stir Carefully
Place your saucepan over medium heat, stirring continuously. This step is crucial because it prevents the sugar from settling to the bottom and scorching, which would ruin the delicate flavors we’re building.
Step 3: Simmer to Thickness
Once the butter has completely melted, let the mixture come to a gentle simmer. Keep it there for about five minutes, allowing the flavors to marry and the syrup to thicken beautifully. You’ll begin to smell that rich, comforting aroma filling your kitchen.
Step 4: Add Vanilla and Baking Soda
Take the saucepan off the heat and quickly stir in the baking soda and vanilla extract. This is the fun part — the baking soda causes the syrup to bubble up and lighten in texture, creating a perfect balance to the creamy buttermilk tang.
Step 5: Cool and Store
Let your syrup cool for several minutes before transferring it into a glass jar or airtight container. It thickens slightly as it cools, and storing it properly keeps it ready to drizzle on all your favorite breakfast treats.
How to Serve Homemade Buttermilk Syrup Recipe

Garnishes
While the syrup shines on its own, don’t be afraid to dress it up a bit. A sprinkle of toasted pecans or a handful of fresh berries adds texture and pops of color that make each bite even more inviting. A light dusting of cinnamon can also add warmth without overpowering the buttermilk’s tang.
Side Dishes
This syrup is a game-changer alongside classics like fluffy pancakes and golden waffles, but it also pairs incredibly well with savory breakfast staples like crispy bacon or sausage. The contrast of sweet and savory flavors creates a delightful balance on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Thinking beyond the usual, drizzle this syrup over vanilla ice cream for a quick dessert or swirl it into yogurt with granola for a luxurious breakfast parfait. Its versatility makes the Homemade Buttermilk Syrup Recipe a real star that’s perfect for experimenting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can easily store leftover syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Just give it a good stir before using to reincorporate any separation that might occur.
Freezing
If you want to keep the syrup for longer, freezing it in small portions works well. Use freezer-safe containers or ice cube trays to portion it out, and thaw in the refrigerator overnight when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Reheating
When it’s time to use your chilled or frozen Homemade Buttermilk Syrup Recipe, warm it gently in a saucepan over low heat or microwave it in short bursts. Stir frequently to maintain its smooth consistency without overheating.
FAQs
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Regular milk won’t give you that distinctive tang and richness that buttermilk provides. If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a substitute by adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to one cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes before using.
Is this syrup gluten-free?
Yes, this Homemade Buttermilk Syrup Recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a safe and delicious choice for those with gluten sensitivities.
How thick should the syrup be when done?
The syrup should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still pourable. It will thicken slightly more as it cools, so don’t worry if it seems a little runny off the heat.
Can I adjust the sweetness?
Absolutely! Feel free to reduce the sugar slightly if you prefer less sweetness, or if you like it very sweet, you can add a bit more. Just keep the balance so it doesn’t overpower the buttermilk tang.
Will the syrup keep in the fridge for more than two weeks?
For the best quality and safety, it’s recommended to consume the syrup within two weeks when refrigerated. Beyond that, it might start to lose flavor and texture, so freezing is a better option for longer storage.
Final Thoughts
This Homemade Buttermilk Syrup Recipe is one of those simple-but-special kitchen treasures that adds soul to any breakfast or brunch. The combination of creamy, tangy, and sweet notes will quickly make it your go-to syrup, whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover just how magical a little buttermilk can be in syrup form!
Print
Homemade Buttermilk Syrup Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: about 8 1/8-cup servings
- Category: Breakfast Syrup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This homemade buttermilk syrup is a luscious, tangy, and creamy syrup perfect for drizzling over pancakes, waffles, or French toast. Made with simple ingredients like buttermilk, sugar, butter, vanilla, and baking soda, this syrup offers a rich depth of flavor with a light texture. It’s quick to prepare and wonderfully complements your breakfast favorites with its unique tang and sweetness.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
Instructions
- Combine ingredients: In a medium saucepan, add the buttermilk, granulated sugar, and unsalted butter. Stir gently until the sugar begins to dissolve.
- Heat the mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously as the mixture warms to prevent the sugar from settling and burning.
- Simmer: Once the butter is fully melted, bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes, thickening slightly.
- Add baking soda and vanilla: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the baking soda and vanilla extract carefully, as the mixture may bubble up.
- Cool and store: Let the syrup cool for a few minutes before transferring it to a glass jar or airtight container. Store in the refrigerator and use within a week.
Notes
- Stir continuously while heating to avoid burning the sugar and butter.
- The baking soda creates bubbles, so add it slowly and carefully.
- Store the syrup refrigerated and warm slightly before using if it thickens too much.
- This syrup pairs beautifully with pancakes, waffles, and French toast.
- You can adjust the sugar slightly for more or less sweetness according to taste.
