Buttermilk longevity

[boudin noir]

I use buttermilk infrequently, but can only buy it by the quart. I made buttermilk mashed potatos today and found that I had an opened container of buttermilk with an expiration date of 4/3 11. It looked smelled and tasted like a fresh container. I have had similar experiences in the past. Does this stuff live forever? Have others had the same experience? Or does everyone just throw it out after some short period of time?

[Margaret Pilgrim]

It only lives for most of forever. I have taken to buying a fresh quart when I am making a recipe, pouring off the recipe amount and freezing the rest in 1 cup containers.

[Darienne]

How does the powdered buttermilk fare against the fresh? The usual?

[andiesenji]

In baking the powdered buttermilk works just fine.

However, since buttermilk lasts for at least a year in the freezer - transfer it to a sealable container with the smallest head space you can find - and mark the date and use it within a year. Even if it develops a lot of ice crystals, you can still use it with good results.

[rotuts]

I do both of above. the powdered is worth learning about. its now in most stores. you can add the powdered to regular milk of your choice and get a good item. just make what you need, a day in advance