⭐ Buttermilk (Best Fat-Free Option)
1:1 (replace 1 cup beef broth with 1 cup buttermilk)Buttermilk’s acidity reacts with baking soda or baking powder to produce carbon dioxide, enhancing leavening and creating a lighter crumb. It also tenderizes gluten, improving texture.
Use buttermilk only if the recipe includes a leavening agent that can react with acid. The tanginess may slightly alter the flavor profile but can complement the buttery notes.
Compared to beef broth, buttermilk adds a mild tang and softer crumb, which can be a pleasant variation but deviates from traditional pound cake flavor.