Buttermilk biscuits are a classic Southern comfort food that never fails to delight. These flaky, buttery treats are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any time you crave a warm, comforting biscuit. With just a few simple ingredients, you can achieve a delicious result that pairs beautifully with butter, jam, or gravy. Let’s dive into this satisfying recipe that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
– 3/4 cup buttermilk
– Optional: 1 tablespoon sugar for a hint of sweetness
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes approximately 8 biscuits. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with an additional 15-20 minutes for baking.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 biscuit) contains approximately:
– Calories: 150
– Total Fat: 7g
– Saturated Fat: 4g
– Carbohydrates: 20g
– Protein: 3g
– Fiber: 0g
This nutritional information is based on one biscuit.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Make a well in the center and pour in the buttermilk.
5. Stir gently until just combined; avoid overmixing.
6. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently 2-3 times.
7. Roll out the dough to about 1-inch thickness.
8. Use a biscuit cutter to cut out biscuits.
9. Place biscuits on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
10. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Alternative Ingredients
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing 3/4 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using. You can also try using whole wheat flour for a healthier twist.
Serving and Pairings
Buttermilk biscuits are delightful on their own or served with butter and jam. They pair wonderfully with fried chicken, sausage gravy, or as a base for breakfast sandwiches.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes. Biscuits can be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw and reheat as needed.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overmixing the dough can lead to tough biscuits.
- Using warm butter instead of cold can affect the texture.
- Not preheating the oven may result in uneven baking.
- Rolling the dough too thin can cause flat biscuits.
- Not using enough flour while kneading can make the dough sticky.
Helpful Tips
- For extra flaky biscuits, use a food processor for mixing.
- Chill your baking sheet before placing the biscuits on it.
- Use a sharp biscuit cutter for clean edges.
- Try adding herbs or cheese for added flavor.
FAQs
Can I make buttermilk biscuits ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time, cut the biscuits, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
What can I use instead of buttermilk?
You can use regular milk mixed with vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute for buttermilk in this recipe.
How do I know when the biscuits are done?
The biscuits are done when they are golden brown on top and have risen nicely. You can also tap the bottom; it should sound hollow.
Can I freeze the biscuits?
Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked biscuits and bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What’s the best way to serve buttermilk biscuits?
They are best served warm with butter, honey, or jam. They also complement savory dishes like chicken and gravy.
Conclusion
Buttermilk biscuits are a timeless favorite that brings comfort and joy to any meal. With their flaky texture and buttery flavor, they are simple to make and incredibly satisfying. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or as part of a hearty breakfast, these biscuits are sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Give this recipe a try and experience the delightful taste of homemade buttermilk biscuits!
Buttermilk Biscuits
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter cold and cubed
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
- Optional: 1 tablespoon sugar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Make a well in the center and pour in the buttermilk.
- Stir gently until just combined; avoid overmixing.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently 2-3 times.
- Roll out the dough to about 1-inch thickness.
- Use a biscuit cutter to cut out biscuits.
- Place biscuits on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
