Buttermilk vs Water
Density, calorie, and weight differences — and whether they can substitute for each other.
Substitution Verdict
Density difference: 3%. Very similar — 1:1 substitution is usually safe.
Calories per 100 g: Buttermilk 40 kcal vs Water 0 kcal. Difference: 40 kcal — Buttermilk is higher.
Weight Conversions (per Spoon and Cup)
| Measure | Buttermilk | Water |
|---|---|---|
| 1 tablespoon | 15.5 g | 15 g |
| 1 teaspoon | 5.2 g | 5 g |
| 1 cup | 245 g | 240 g |
| Density | 1.03 g/ml | 1 g/ml |
Measuring Tips
DIY substitute: 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice or white vinegar, let sit 5 min until curdled.
Water is the universal density reference: 1 ml = 1 g exactly (at 4°C).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Buttermilk be substituted for Water?▾
Very similar — 1:1 substitution is usually safe. Density of Buttermilk is 1.03 g/ml; Water is 1 g/ml — a 3% difference. But flavor, moisture, and chemistry can still differ — verify suitability for the specific recipe.
How many grams in 1 tablespoon of Buttermilk vs Water?▾
1 tbsp Buttermilk ≈ 15.5 g. 1 tbsp Water ≈ 15 g. By weight: 1 tbsp Buttermilk = 1.03 tbsp Water.
Which has more calories, Buttermilk or Water?▾
Per 100 g: Buttermilk 40 kcal, Water 0 kcal. Buttermilk has 40 more kcal.
What is Buttermilk typically used for?▾
Buttermilk is commonly used in: pancakes, biscuits, fried chicken marinade, cakes. Source: usda-fdc.
What is Water typically used for?▾
Water is commonly used in: drinking, cooking, boiling, baking hydration. Source: universal-constant.