Southern Buttermilk Biscuits Recipe
There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, flaky biscuit fresh from the oven, especially when it’s a Southern Buttermilk Biscuit. These biscuits are the epitome of Southern hospitality, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a side to your favorite meal. Whether slathered with butter and jam or served alongside fried chicken, they bring a touch of tradition and warmth to any table. This Southern Buttermilk Biscuits Recipe will guide you through creating these delightful bites that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Reasons to Love Southern Buttermilk Biscuits Recipe
Southern Buttermilk Biscuits are beloved for many reasons. Here’s a quick rundown of why you’ll fall head over heels for this recipe:
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time.
- Versatile: Enjoy them sweet or savory, they pair well with countless dishes.
- Flaky Texture: The combination of shortening and cold butter creates layers that result in a beautifully flaky biscuit.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve them at breakfast, brunch, or as a side for dinner; they fit right in.
- Classic Southern Flavor: Buttermilk adds a tangy richness that is simply irresistible.
What Goes Into Southern Buttermilk Biscuits Recipe
Before you get started, let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need to bring these biscuits to life:
- 2 cups (226g) self-rising flour: This flour is essential for achieving that perfect rise without needing additional leavening agents.
- 2 pinches (1g) kosher salt: Enhances flavor while balancing the richness of the butter and shortening.
- 3 tablespoons (35g) shortening: Adds tenderness and helps create the flaky texture.
- 1 tablespoon (14g) very cold butter: Using cold butter is crucial for achieving those flaky layers.
- 1 cup (245g) buttermilk: Provides moisture and a slight tang that elevates the biscuit flavor.
- 1 tablespoon (14g) melted butter (optional): For brushing on top of the biscuits for extra flavor and shine.
Cook’s Kit
To make your cooking experience seamless, here’s a quick list of equipment you should have on hand:
- Mixing Bowl: A large bowl for combining your dry and wet ingredients.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise measurements of your ingredients.
- Pastry Cutter or Fork: To cut the shortening and butter into the flour.
- Baking Sheet: To bake your biscuits to golden perfection.
- Parchment Paper: Optional but recommended for easy cleanup.
- Rolling Pin: For rolling out your dough, if desired.
Southern Buttermilk Biscuits Recipe Made Stepwise
Now that you have everything prepared, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making these delicious biscuits.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). This high temperature is essential for achieving that perfect, flaky rise in your biscuits.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the self-rising flour and kosher salt. This ensures that the salt is evenly distributed throughout the flour.
Step 3: Cut in the Shortening
Add the shortening to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or a fork, cut the shortening into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial for creating that desirable flaky texture.
Step 4: Add the Cold Butter
Next, add the very cold butter to the mixture. Again, use the pastry cutter or fork to cut the butter into the flour until you have a mixture that is still slightly crumbly.
Step 5: Pour in the Buttermilk
Make a well in the center of your dry ingredients and pour in the buttermilk. Stir gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
Step 6: Turn Out the Dough
Lightly flour your work surface and turn out the biscuit dough. Gently knead the dough just a few times to bring it together, being careful not to overwork it.
Step 7: Roll and Cut
Using a rolling pin, roll out the dough to about 1-inch thickness. Use a biscuit cutter or a glass to cut out biscuits. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they are touching for soft sides.
Step 8: Bake
Bake in your preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the tops are golden brown. If desired, brush the tops with melted butter right after they come out of the oven for an extra touch of flavor.
Step 9: Serve Warm
Let the biscuits cool slightly before serving. They are best enjoyed warm and fresh from the oven, perhaps with homemade jam or a drizzle of honey.
Texture-Safe Substitutions
If you find yourself lacking an ingredient or looking for alternatives, here are some texture-safe substitutions:
- Shortening: You can substitute with an equal amount of coconut oil or more butter for a richer flavor.
- Buttermilk: If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
- Self-Rising Flour: If you only have all-purpose flour, add 1.5 teaspoons of baking powder and a pinch of salt to each cup of flour.
- Butter: Use margarine or vegan butter if you prefer a non-dairy option.
Mistakes Even Pros Make
Even seasoned bakers can stumble on a few common pitfalls when making biscuits. Here are some mistakes to avoid:
- Overmixing: This can lead to tough biscuits. Mix just until combined.
- Using warm butter: Always use cold butter; this helps create the flaky texture.
- Not preheating the oven: A hot oven is essential for that rise and flakiness.
- Cutting the biscuits too small: Make sure they are at least 1 inch thick for the best results.
Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide
To keep your biscuits fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:
Store leftover biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in the freezer, where they will last for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
Handy Q&A
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.
Can I freeze the biscuits before baking?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cut biscuits on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a zip-top bag. Bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What’s the secret to flaky biscuits?
The key to flaky biscuits is the incorporation of cold fat (shortening and butter) into the flour. The small pieces of fat create steam during baking, which results in those lovely flaky layers.
Can I add mix-ins to the biscuit dough?
Yes! Feel free to add shredded cheese, herbs, or even bits of cooked bacon to the dough for a delicious twist on the classic recipe.
More from the Kitchen
If you enjoyed this Southern Buttermilk Biscuits Recipe, you might also like:
- Classic Cornbread Recipe
- Southern Gravy Recipe
- Easy Peach Cobbler Recipe
- Homemade Fried Chicken Recipe
Ready, Set, Cook
Now that you have all the information you need, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get baking! This Southern Buttermilk Biscuits Recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, bringing a taste of the South straight to your kitchen. Serve them warm, savor the flaky layers, and enjoy the smiles they bring to your table. Happy baking!
Southern Buttermilk Biscuits Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C).
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the self-rising flour and kosher salt.
- Step 3: Add the shortening to the flour mixture and cut it in using a pastry cutter until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Step 4: Add the very cold butter and cut it into the flour mixture until slightly crumbly.
- Step 5: Make a well in the center of your dry ingredients and pour in the buttermilk. Stir gently until just combined.
- Step 6: Lightly flour your work surface and turn out the biscuit dough. Knead gently a few times.
- Step 7: Roll out the dough to about 1-inch thickness and cut out biscuits. Place them on a baking sheet.
- Step 8: Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown. Brush with melted butter if desired.
- Step 9: Let cool slightly before serving warm.
Notes
- Store leftover biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- For longer storage, wrap tightly in plastic and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes.
