45+ Tasty Holiday Buttermilk Recipes to Celebrate the Season in Style

The holiday season is the perfect time to gather loved ones, share laughs, and indulge in festive culinary delights.

Buttermilk, with its tangy flavor and creamy texture, is a versatile ingredient that can transform your holiday recipes from ordinary to extraordinary.

Whether you’re whipping up fluffy pancakes for a cozy Christmas morning, baking rich cakes and pies for dessert, or preparing savory dishes for your holiday feast, buttermilk adds a unique touch that enhances both flavor and texture.

In this article, we’ve curated 45+ holiday buttermilk recipes that cover a wide range of festive favorites.

From appetizers and main courses to desserts and sides, you’ll find something special for every occasion.

Let buttermilk take center stage in your holiday kitchen and discover how it can elevate your meals to a whole new level of deliciousness.

45+ Tasty Holiday Buttermilk Recipes to Celebrate the Season in Style

Holiday cooking is all about creating memories, and these 45+ buttermilk recipes offer the perfect combination of comfort and creativity to make your celebrations unforgettable.

With its ability to tenderize, add moisture, and enrich flavors, buttermilk is the unsung hero of the festive season.

Whether you’re planning a grand holiday dinner or a casual brunch with friends, these recipes will inspire you to embrace buttermilk as a holiday essential.

So grab your apron, stock up on buttermilk, and get ready to impress your family and friends with dishes that are as delightful as they are delicious.

Here’s to a holiday season filled with love, laughter, and incredible food!

Buttermilk Eggnog Pancakes

These Buttermilk Eggnog Pancakes are the ultimate holiday breakfast delight. Infused with the rich, creamy taste of eggnog and the tanginess of buttermilk, they embody the flavors of Christmas in every bite. Whether served with syrup, whipped cream, or a dusting of nutmeg, these pancakes are a festive treat that will bring warmth and joy to your holiday mornings.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 ½ cups buttermilk
• 1 cup eggnog
• 2 large eggs
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Butter or oil for greasing the pan

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, mix buttermilk, eggnog, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; lumps are fine.
4. Heat a griddle or nonstick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or oil.
5. Pour ¼ cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set, about 2-3 minutes. Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
6. Serve warm with your favorite toppings, such as maple syrup, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of nutmeg.

Buttermilk Eggnog Pancakes are more than just breakfast; they’re an experience that brings the spirit of the holidays to your table. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, these pancakes are perfect for creating special memories with loved ones.

Buttermilk Gingerbread Cake

This Buttermilk Gingerbread Cake is a cozy, spiced dessert that perfectly captures the essence of holiday cheer. Featuring warm notes of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, this moist and flavorful cake is ideal for Christmas gatherings or as a wintertime indulgence. Serve it with whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for a truly festive treat.

Ingredients

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 2 tsp ground ginger
• 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground cloves
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• ½ cup molasses
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine buttermilk, molasses, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until well incorporated.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Allow the cake to cool before serving. Top with whipped cream or caramel sauce if desired.

This Buttermilk Gingerbread Cake is a quintessential holiday dessert that brings warmth and comfort with every bite. Its rich aroma and delightful spices will make it a hit at any festive gathering, spreading holiday joy to all who try it.

Cranberry Buttermilk Biscuits

Cranberry Buttermilk Biscuits combine the tender flakiness of buttermilk biscuits with the tart sweetness of dried cranberries. Perfect as a side dish for holiday dinners or as a base for breakfast sandwiches, these biscuits are a versatile and crowd-pleasing addition to your festive menu.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 6 tbsp cold unsalted butter, cubed
• ¾ cup buttermilk
• ½ cup dried cranberries

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in the dried cranberries.
5. Gradually add the buttermilk, mixing until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overwork it.
6. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a ¾-inch thick rectangle.
7. Use a biscuit cutter to cut out rounds and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown. Serve warm.

Cranberry Buttermilk Biscuits are a delightful addition to your holiday table, offering a perfect balance of tart and buttery flavors. They’re a versatile recipe that complements both sweet and savory dishes, making them an essential part of any festive feast.

Buttermilk Herb Mashed Potatoes

These Buttermilk Herb Mashed Potatoes are a creamy, flavorful side dish perfect for holiday feasts. The tanginess of buttermilk enhances the natural flavor of the potatoes, while fresh herbs like parsley, chives, and thyme add a burst of seasonal freshness. This dish pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, ham, or any festive main course.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• ½ cup buttermilk, warmed
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tbsp sour cream
• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tbsp chopped chives
• 1 tsp chopped fresh thyme

Instructions

1. Boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well.
2. Return the potatoes to the pot and mash them using a potato masher or ricer.
3. Gradually mix in the buttermilk, melted butter, and sour cream until smooth and creamy.
4. Stir in salt, black pepper, and fresh herbs. Adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve warm, garnished with additional herbs if desired.

Buttermilk Herb Mashed Potatoes bring elegance and comfort to your holiday spread. Their light and creamy texture, combined with the freshness of herbs, will impress your guests and complement your festive dishes effortlessly.

Buttermilk Cornbread Stuffing

Buttermilk Cornbread Stuffing is a savory and moist holiday side dish that elevates traditional stuffing to new heights. Made with homemade or store-bought buttermilk cornbread, sautéed vegetables, and aromatic herbs, this dish captures the flavors of the season and pairs beautifully with turkey or ham.

Ingredients

• 4 cups crumbled buttermilk cornbread
• 2 cups cubed day-old bread
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 tsp dried sage
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté onion, celery, and garlic until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. In a large bowl, combine crumbled cornbread, bread cubes, and the sautéed vegetables.
4. Add sage, thyme, salt, and pepper, and mix well.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg with the chicken broth. Pour this mixture over the bread mixture and stir until evenly moistened.
6. Transfer the stuffing to the prepared baking dish and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
7. Serve warm as a side dish.

Buttermilk Cornbread Stuffing is a holiday classic reimagined with a Southern twist. Its rich, buttery flavor and perfectly balanced spices make it an irresistible addition to your festive menu.

Buttermilk Snowflake Rolls

Buttermilk Snowflake Rolls are soft, pillowy dinner rolls shaped like delicate snowflakes, perfect for adding a whimsical touch to your holiday table. These tender rolls are made with buttermilk, which ensures a fluffy texture and slightly tangy flavor, making them an ideal accompaniment to any holiday meal.

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup buttermilk, warmed
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 2 tbsp melted butter for brushing

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, mix the warmed buttermilk, melted butter, and egg. Add this to the dry ingredients and knead until a soft dough forms, about 8-10 minutes.
3. Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
4. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and shape each piece into a ball. Using scissors, snip 5-6 small cuts around each ball to create a snowflake pattern.
5. Place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.
6. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the rolls with melted butter and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with butter or jam.

Buttermilk Snowflake Rolls are a delightful and visually stunning addition to your holiday celebrations. Their soft texture and rich flavor make them a favorite for all ages, ensuring your holiday meals are both festive and delicious.

Buttermilk Maple Glazed Carrots

Buttermilk Maple Glazed Carrots are a festive and flavorful side dish that adds a vibrant touch to any holiday table. The natural sweetness of carrots is elevated by a rich maple glaze, while the buttermilk lends a slight tanginess, creating a perfectly balanced and unique holiday dish. This recipe is simple to prepare and pairs wonderfully with roasted meats or vegetarian mains.

Ingredients

• 1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 tbsp maple syrup
• ¼ cup buttermilk
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the carrots and cook until just tender, about 5-7 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the maple syrup, buttermilk, cinnamon, salt, and pepper, stirring until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened.
3. Add the cooked carrots to the skillet and toss to coat them in the glaze. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the carrots are fully glazed.
4. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm.

These Buttermilk Maple Glazed Carrots are a simple yet elegant side dish that captures the spirit of the holidays. With their stunning color and rich flavor, they’re sure to be a standout on your holiday menu.

Buttermilk Pecan Pie Bars

Buttermilk Pecan Pie Bars offer a delightful twist on the classic holiday pecan pie. These bite-sized treats feature a buttery shortbread crust topped with a rich buttermilk pecan filling, making them an easy-to-serve dessert for holiday gatherings. Whether enjoyed as a sweet snack or a decadent dessert, these bars will quickly become a holiday favorite.

Ingredients
For the crust:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¼ cup powdered sugar

For the filling:

• ¾ cup light brown sugar
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• ½ cup buttermilk
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup chopped pecans

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix flour, butter, and powdered sugar until a dough forms. Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish.
3. Bake the crust for 15 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.
4. In another bowl, whisk together brown sugar, flour, buttermilk, egg, and vanilla until smooth. Stir in the chopped pecans.
5. Pour the filling over the pre-baked crust and spread it evenly.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly golden.
7. Let cool completely before slicing into bars.

Buttermilk Pecan Pie Bars bring the timeless flavor of pecan pie into a convenient, shareable format. Perfect for holiday parties or as a giftable treat, these bars will add a touch of sweetness and cheer to your celebrations.

Buttermilk Chocolate Peppermint Cake

This Buttermilk Chocolate Peppermint Cake is a show-stopping holiday dessert that combines the richness of chocolate with the refreshing flavor of peppermint. The tangy buttermilk ensures a moist and tender crumb, while a luscious peppermint buttercream frosting makes this cake a festive centerpiece for any holiday gathering.

Ingredients
For the cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 3-4 tbsp buttermilk
• ½ tsp peppermint extract
• Crushed candy canes (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, combine buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla. Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until smooth.
4. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool completely.
5. For the frosting, beat butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, alternating with buttermilk, until smooth. Stir in peppermint extract.
6. Frost the cooled cakes and stack them. Garnish with crushed candy canes.

The Buttermilk Chocolate Peppermint Cake is a dessert that perfectly embodies holiday indulgence. Its rich, chocolatey layers and refreshing peppermint finish will delight your guests and leave them asking for seconds.

Buttermilk Cranberry Scones

Buttermilk Cranberry Scones are a festive breakfast or brunch treat that’s perfect for the holiday season. The tartness of dried cranberries pairs beautifully with the tangy richness of buttermilk, while a hint of orange zest elevates the flavor profile. These scones are tender, buttery, and best served warm with a dollop of clotted cream or a drizzle of honey.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• Zest of 1 orange
• ¾ cup buttermilk
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten (for brushing)
• Turbinado sugar (optional, for sprinkling)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in the cranberries and orange zest. Add the buttermilk and gently mix until a dough forms.
5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape it into a 1-inch-thick circle. Cut into 8 wedges and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Brush the tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with turbinado sugar if desired.
7. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown. Serve warm.

Buttermilk Cranberry Scones are a delightful way to start a holiday morning. Their buttery texture, bright cranberry flavor, and subtle orange notes make them a festive addition to any holiday spread.

Buttermilk Sweet Potato Casserole

Buttermilk Sweet Potato Casserole is a rich, creamy side dish that adds warmth and comfort to your holiday table. Combining mashed sweet potatoes, tangy buttermilk, and a crunchy pecan streusel topping, this casserole is a perfect blend of flavors and textures. It’s a crowd-pleaser that will shine alongside roasted turkey or ham.

Ingredients
For the sweet potatoes:

• 3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• ½ cup buttermilk
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp nutmeg
• ½ tsp salt

For the topping:

• ½ cup chopped pecans
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Boil the sweet potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and mash them until smooth.
3. Stir in buttermilk, butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
4. In a bowl, mix the pecans, brown sugar, flour, and melted butter to make the streusel topping. Sprinkle it evenly over the sweet potatoes.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the topping is golden and crispy. Serve warm.

This Buttermilk Sweet Potato Casserole is a comforting and decadent dish that captures the essence of the holidays. Its creamy filling and crunchy topping will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Buttermilk Gingerbread Pancakes

Buttermilk Gingerbread Pancakes are a delightful holiday breakfast that brings the warm, spiced flavors of gingerbread to your morning table. These fluffy pancakes are infused with molasses, cinnamon, ginger, and buttermilk, making them a festive treat that’s perfect for Christmas morning or any holiday brunch.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground ginger
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 cup buttermilk
• ¼ cup molasses
• 1 large egg
• 2 tbsp melted butter

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg.
2. In a separate bowl, mix buttermilk, molasses, egg, and melted butter.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined (do not overmix).
4. Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray.
5. Pour ¼ cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook until golden brown.
6. Serve warm with syrup, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.

Buttermilk Gingerbread Pancakes are a cozy and festive way to start your holiday mornings. Their warm spices and fluffy texture will fill your kitchen with holiday cheer and bring smiles to the breakfast table.

Buttermilk Rosemary Dinner Rolls

Buttermilk Rosemary Dinner Rolls are soft, fluffy, and full of flavor, making them a must-have on your holiday dinner table. The tang of buttermilk and the earthy aroma of fresh rosemary combine to create a delightful roll that pairs well with any main course. These rolls are perfect for soaking up gravy or enjoying with a pat of butter.

Ingredients

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup buttermilk, warmed
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 2 tsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
2. Add the warm buttermilk, melted butter, and egg. Mix until smooth.
3. Gradually add the remaining flour and chopped rosemary, kneading until a soft dough forms.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
5. Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape into balls and place in a greased baking dish.
6. Cover and let rise again for 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Brush with melted butter before serving.

Buttermilk Rosemary Dinner Rolls are a simple yet elegant addition to your holiday feast. Their soft texture and herbaceous flavor make them a favorite among guests, ensuring your table is filled with warm, homemade goodness.

Buttermilk Eggnog Cheesecake

Buttermilk Eggnog Cheesecake is a decadent holiday dessert that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the classic flavors of eggnog. The tangy buttermilk adds depth, while the nutmeg and rum extract capture the essence of holiday cheer. This cheesecake is a showstopper for Christmas parties or holiday dinners.

Ingredients
For the crust:

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• ¼ cup sugar

For the filling:

• 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sugar
• 3 large eggs
• ½ cup buttermilk
• ½ cup eggnog
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp rum extract
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan and chill.
2. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Blend in buttermilk, eggnog, vanilla extract, rum extract, and nutmeg. Pour the filling over the prepared crust.
4. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set. Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.
5. Garnish with whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg.

Buttermilk Eggnog Cheesecake is the ultimate holiday indulgence. Its creamy texture and festive flavors make it a dessert that will impress your guests and leave them craving more.

Buttermilk Honey Glazed Ham

Buttermilk Honey Glazed Ham is a stunning main course for your holiday celebrations. The tangy buttermilk tenderizes the ham, while the honey glaze adds a sweet and savory finish. This recipe is easy to prepare and ensures your ham is juicy, flavorful, and beautifully caramelized.

Ingredients

• 1 (8-10 lb) bone-in ham
• 2 cups buttermilk
• ½ cup honey
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp ground cloves

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Place the ham in a roasting pan and pour buttermilk over it. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours.
2. Remove the ham from the buttermilk and pat dry. Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern.
3. In a small saucepan, combine honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and ground cloves. Heat until smooth and brush half of the glaze over the ham.
4. Cover the ham loosely with foil and bake for 1 ½ hours, basting with the remaining glaze every 30 minutes.
5. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized and the ham is heated through.
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Buttermilk Honey Glazed Ham is a holiday centerpiece that will delight your guests. The combination of tangy buttermilk and sweet honey glaze creates a perfectly balanced dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!