# Here’s What to Use As a Substitute for Plain Yogurt

URL: https://tastessence.com/substitutes/substitute-for-plain-yogurt
Category: Substitutes
Published: 2020-12-11T07:10:55
Updated: 2020-12-08T07:14:27
In addition to its popularity as a **healthy breakfast option**, plain yogurt is also used in many baked goods to add the right balance of moisture and texture. But if you don’t have any on hand, **you might need to turn to a substitute for plain yogurt.** Thankfully, there are several kitchen staples that you can use as a substitute for plain yogurt, **whether you’re baking or enjoying breakfast.** In this post, we will highlight some of the best yogurt alternatives to try today.

## For baking: What to substitute for plain yogurt

As an ingredient in baked goods, **[plain yogurt is a favorite among bakers](https://www.thekitchn.com/14-ways-to-bake-with-yogurt-239444)**. Not only does it bring in moisture to even out the dry ingredients, but it also adds a kick of acidity and **helps baked goods rise in the oven.** Yogurt is often used in things like **scones, biscuits, cakes, and muffins** -- here’s what to use as a substitute for plain yogurt if you’re baking one of these items.

### Sour cream

[Sour cream](https://tastessence.com/substitutes/sour-cream-substitute) is one of the easiest swaps for plain yogurt since **it’s widely available and probably already in your refrigerator.** Before using it in place of yogurt, however, you should be aware that sour cream is **much higher in fat and calories than yogurt.** It might sound like an odd substitute for plain yogurt, but **sour cream actually does the trick quite nicely.** That’s because it has a hint of acidity that **imitates the tanginess of plain yogurt** in your recipes.

### Store-bought or homemade buttermilk

Like yogurt, **buttermilk is excellent in baked goods** because it brings together creaminess and acidity. When mixed with baking soda, these ingredients interact to help your **biscuits, scones, and other baked goods rise.** You should be able to buy buttermilk at your local grocery store, but **it’s also super simple to make at home**. To do so, combine one cup of milk with one tablespoon of [lemon juice](https://tastessence.com/substitutes/lemon-juice-substitute) or white vinegar. **Allow the mixture to sit and curdle for a few minutes before stirring it** -- and that’s it!

### Blended silken tofu

If you’re looking for a **dairy-free substitute for plain yogurt,** try blending some silken tofu and adding it to your baked goods. While it won’t have the same taste as yogurt, it will share a similar texture. Plus, **tofu contains a good deal of protein**, which is beneficial in vegan and vegetarian diets.

## As breakfast: What to substitute for plain yogurt

You also have several options if you’re planning on eating yogurt for breakfast, whether it’s plain or with berries or granola. For a straightforward swap, **try substituting Greek yogurt in place of traditional plain yogurt.** Although the taste and texture are different, Greek yogurt is quite popular with **people who enjoy yogurt but are trying to reduce their sugar intake.** If you’d prefer something other than yogurt for breakfast, **you could always try making a bowl of oatmeal, chia pudding, or brown rice.** Customize your meal by adding your favorite toppings, such as brown sugar, fruit, and nuts. Whether you’re baking or making breakfast, **a tasty substitute for plain yogurt is never too far away.** Each of these options is easy to find at your nearest supermarket and should stand in for yogurt quite well. For more recipe ideas and ingredient swaps, [**check out the Tastessence blog.**](https://tastessence.com/)