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Buttermilk ice cream is the cool, tangy twist your dessert lineup has been missing.
Known for its creamy texture and refreshing zing, buttermilk makes an unexpected yet delightful base for frozen treats that range from fruity and floral to rich and indulgent.
Whether you’re pairing it with summer fruits, warm spices, or roasted nuts, the possibilities are endless.
This collection of 23+ buttermilk ice cream recipes showcases the versatility of this cultured ingredient, giving you scoops of inspiration for every season.
From classic vanilla bean to bold combinations like basil or roasted fig, these recipes offer something for every palate and occasion.
Perfect on their own or as complements to cakes, pies, and fresh fruits, buttermilk ice creams bring balance and brightness with every spoonful.
23+ Tangy & Sweet Buttermilk Ice Cream Recipes You’ll Crave Year-Round
If you’ve never tried buttermilk in your ice cream before, now is the perfect time to explore.
This curated collection of 23+ buttermilk ice cream recipes opens the door to bold flavor profiles, refreshing combinations, and creamy textures that are anything but ordinary.
Whether you’re looking for something fruity, herby, nutty, or classic, there’s a recipe here ready to become your next frozen favorite.
Buttermilk Vanilla Bean Ice Cream
Creamy, tangy, and luxuriously smooth, this Buttermilk Vanilla Bean Ice Cream delivers a unique twist on a classic favorite.
The richness of vanilla bean pairs beautifully with the tart undertones of buttermilk, creating a flavor that’s both refreshing and indulgent.
Its silky texture melts effortlessly on the tongue, making it perfect for hot afternoons or as a cooling contrast to warm desserts like pies or cobblers.
Whether served solo or topped with fresh berries, this treat offers an elevated yet simple dessert experience.
Peach Buttermilk Ice Cream
Sun-ripened peaches and tangy buttermilk unite in this luscious Peach Buttermilk Ice Cream, a southern summer dream in every bite.
The fruity sweetness of peach balances the tang of buttermilk, resulting in a flavor that’s both comforting and crisp.
Lightly churned to achieve a soft, airy consistency, this ice cream is ideal for pairing with grilled stone fruits or layered into shortcake for a rustic dessert.
Its fresh aroma and velvety finish will have you reaching for seconds.
Buttermilk Honey Ice Cream
Subtly sweet and delightfully tangy, Buttermilk Honey Ice Cream brings together the richness of local honey with the cultured depth of buttermilk.
Each spoonful is smooth and mellow, with floral notes from the honey rounding out the creaminess.
Its golden hue and glossy finish make it visually as tempting as it is tasty.
Enjoy it drizzled with extra honey, sprinkled with toasted nuts, or as a gentle palate cleanser between courses.
Strawberry Buttermilk Ice Cream
A celebration of summer’s finest fruit, Strawberry Buttermilk Ice Cream offers a burst of berry flavor enveloped in tangy cream.
The buttermilk amplifies the freshness of ripe strawberries while keeping the dessert light and refreshing.
This creamy, pink-hued delight is perfect on its own, but also pairs beautifully with shortcakes, waffles, or dark chocolate.
Its balanced sweetness and bright aroma make it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
Lemon Buttermilk Ice Cream
Zesty and creamy with a hint of citrus zing, Lemon Buttermilk Ice Cream is the ultimate palate-refresher.
The combination of sharp lemon and smooth buttermilk creates a sorbet-like tang within a rich, churned base.
It offers a fluffy, scoopable texture that’s ideal after heavy meals or paired with fruit tarts.
The uplifting scent of lemon mingled with the tart edge of buttermilk delivers a vibrant, clean-tasting finish.
Blueberry Buttermilk Ice Cream
Juicy blueberries burst through each spoonful of Blueberry Buttermilk Ice Cream, blending tartness and sweetness in a velvety embrace.
The buttermilk provides a lightly sour backdrop that enhances the natural flavor of the berries without overpowering them.
Its striking lavender hue and rich texture make it a show-stopping dessert on any table.
Whether spooned over pancakes or enjoyed in a cone, this flavor-forward treat is irresistibly refreshing.
Roasted Fig Buttermilk Ice Cream
Roasted Fig Buttermilk Ice Cream brings a rich, earthy sweetness with a tangy backbone that elevates every bite.
The caramelized flavor of oven-roasted figs swirls through a creamy buttermilk base, creating a gourmet dessert that feels indulgent yet refined.
Its silky mouthfeel and fragrant aroma make it an elegant pairing with honey-drizzled biscuits or almond cookies.
This ice cream shines both as a standalone treat and a luxe accompaniment to rustic fruit desserts.
Blackberry Buttermilk Ice Cream
Vibrant, juicy blackberries are the star of this bold and beautiful Blackberry Buttermilk Ice Cream.
The tart richness of the berries complements the slight tang of buttermilk, delivering a cool burst of flavor with every spoonful.
Smooth and lightly tart, this frozen dessert is both refreshing and satisfying, perfect for topping pound cake or serving in a cone.
Its deep purple hue and berry-fresh aroma make it a visual and sensory delight.
Buttermilk Basil Ice Cream
Herbaceous and unexpectedly refreshing, Buttermilk Basil Ice Cream is a daring twist on traditional flavors.
The fresh essence of basil infuses a tangy, creamy base, offering a cooling experience that’s aromatic and slightly savory.
This unique flavor pairs wonderfully with citrusy desserts or adds a gourmet touch to fruit salads.
It’s a fragrant, green-speckled scoop that surprises the palate and captivates the senses.
Maple Buttermilk Ice Cream
Maple Buttermilk Ice Cream blends the deep, comforting sweetness of real maple syrup with the bright, cultured edge of buttermilk.
The result is a perfectly balanced dessert that’s creamy yet not overly heavy, with hints of caramel and vanilla.
Its soft texture and warm, toasty aroma make it ideal alongside roasted pecans or crumbled over waffles.
Enjoy it as a nostalgic comfort or an elevated addition to your holiday dessert table.
Raspberry Buttermilk Ice Cream
Bold and tangy, Raspberry Buttermilk Ice Cream bursts with fruity brightness and creamy depth.
The tartness of fresh raspberries is enhanced by the buttermilk’s subtle zing, creating a scoop that’s rich yet refreshing.
It offers a beautiful balance of sweet and sour, ideal for warm days or served beside a chocolate torte.
Every bite delivers a vibrant pink hue and a lively taste that lingers pleasantly.
Chocolate Buttermilk Ice Cream
Chocolate Buttermilk Ice Cream brings a velvety, cocoa-rich experience with a surprising tangy twist.
The buttermilk lightens the density of traditional chocolate ice cream while adding a faintly tart edge that sharpens the chocolate flavor.
Its ultra-smooth texture makes it perfect for layering into ice cream sandwiches or topping with salted caramel.
This indulgent flavor is a modern take on a classic, offering depth and dimension in every scoop.
Buttermilk Caramel Ice Cream
Buttermilk Caramel Ice Cream delivers a rich, buttery sweetness balanced by the slight tang of cultured buttermilk.
Each spoonful is layered with deep caramel notes that melt into a silky, slightly tart base, creating a luxurious taste experience.
Its velvety texture and golden hue make it a standout, whether enjoyed on its own or paired with apple pie or brownies.
This flavor strikes the perfect harmony between decadent and refreshing.
Buttermilk Cinnamon Ice Cream
Warm, spicy, and comforting, Buttermilk Cinnamon Ice Cream is a delightful twist on traditional spice-based desserts.
The tang of buttermilk elevates the aromatic kick of ground cinnamon, resulting in a flavor that feels both cozy and clean.
Its smooth body and spicy aroma make it perfect for fall treats or served with baked goods like muffins or crisps.
Aromatic and mellow, it’s an ice cream that invites lingering enjoyment.
Buttermilk Mint Ice Cream
Cool and invigorating, Buttermilk Mint Ice Cream combines the freshness of mint with the creamy tang of buttermilk.
This herbaceous flavor feels crisp and clean, with a soft churned texture that’s lighter than traditional mint ice creams.
Perfect as a summer palate cleanser or a unique dessert option, it pairs well with dark chocolate or citrus compote.
Its minty scent and refreshing finish make it a go-to for warm weather indulgence.
Buttermilk Coconut Ice Cream
Creamy coconut and tangy buttermilk come together in this tropical-inspired Buttermilk Coconut Ice Cream.
The smooth, slightly nutty coconut flavor is brightened by the buttermilk’s zing, creating a refreshing and layered dessert.
With its rich texture and naturally sweet aroma, this ice cream is ideal for pairing with grilled pineapple or mango.
Every bite brings island flavor with a cultured twist.
Buttermilk Coffee Ice Cream
Bold espresso meets tart buttermilk in this deeply flavorful Buttermilk Coffee Ice Cream.
The coffee provides a roasted depth that’s softened by the creamy, slightly sour notes of buttermilk, offering a balanced pick-me-up in frozen form.
Its silky texture and subtle bitterness make it perfect after dinner or alongside a crunchy biscotti.
A perfect fusion of richness and refreshment, it’s a sophisticated spin on a favorite flavor.
Buttermilk Plum Ice Cream
Sweet, tangy plums swirl through this Buttermilk Plum Ice Cream, offering a fruity burst in every chilled bite.
The natural tartness of ripe plums complements the tangy base, creating a bright, jewel-toned scoop that’s as beautiful as it is flavorful.
Perfect on its own or spooned over pound cake, this ice cream brings summer orchard vibes to your freezer.
Its vibrant color and refreshing taste make it a seasonal favorite with a gourmet edge.
Buttermilk Cherry Ice Cream
Buttermilk Cherry Ice Cream is a blissful blend of tart cherries and creamy buttermilk, delivering a fruity pop in every scoop.
The vibrant cherry flavor is deepened by the buttermilk’s natural tang, offering a refreshing twist on traditional cherry desserts.
Its luscious texture and ruby hue make it a stunning addition to any dessert plate or a satisfying treat on its own.
This flavor shines alongside chocolate cakes or spooned into crisp waffle cones.
Buttermilk Brown Sugar Ice Cream
With warm molasses notes and a soft tangy finish, Buttermilk Brown Sugar Ice Cream is comfort in frozen form.
The deep caramel richness of brown sugar is lightened by buttermilk’s zing, creating a silky balance of sweet and tart.
Its rich aroma and creamy texture make it perfect for topping baked apples or cinnamon rolls.
Each spoonful brings a cozy, nostalgic flavor with a unique cultured twist.
Buttermilk Rhubarb Ice Cream
Tangy rhubarb and buttermilk come together in this refreshingly tart and creamy Buttermilk Rhubarb Ice Cream.
The rhubarb’s bright, citrusy notes play off the smooth tang of the buttermilk, resulting in a clean, palate-awakening dessert.
Its pretty blush-pink color and lively flavor profile make it an eye-catching treat, especially during spring and summer.
Enjoy it alongside shortcakes, or savor it solo for a light, flavorful indulgence.
Buttermilk Pistachio Ice Cream
Earthy pistachios find a vibrant partner in tangy buttermilk with this uniquely flavored Buttermilk Pistachio Ice Cream.
The nutty, toasted flavor is rounded out by the buttermilk’s creamy bite, creating a balanced and luxurious dessert.
It’s an elegant scoop that pairs beautifully with honey or rosewater syrup, offering a Mediterranean-inspired twist.
The subtle crunch and rich aroma make it both refined and irresistibly satisfying.
Buttermilk Mango Ice Cream
Bright, tropical mangoes blend effortlessly into the creamy tang of Buttermilk Mango Ice Cream, delivering sunshine in every bite.
The smooth texture and naturally sweet flavor are enhanced by the gentle tartness of the buttermilk, making this treat light yet luscious.
Perfect for warm days or as a fruity finish to spicy meals, this scoop refreshes and delights with every taste.
Its golden glow and exotic aroma make it an unforgettable favorite.
Conclusion
With their creamy base and signature tang, these 23+ buttermilk ice cream recipes bring a gourmet edge to your dessert table without the need for fancy ingredients or techniques.
Easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and always refreshing—this is ice cream reimagined.
So grab your churner, choose your flavor, and get ready to scoop up something sensational.