๐ผ Angel Biscuits: A Heavenly Delight ๐ช
What is it?
Angel biscuits are light, fluffy, and tender Southern-style biscuits that are often described as a cross between a biscuit and a yeast roll. They get their name from their heavenly texture and taste.
History ๐
The exact origin of angel biscuits is a bit hazy, but they are believed to have originated in the American South, where biscuits are a staple. These biscuits gained popularity in the early to mid-20th century. They are a fusion of traditional Southern biscuit-making techniques and the addition of yeast, which gives them a unique texture.
Components ๐ง
To make angel biscuits, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/4 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup cold butter (1 stick), cubed
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup warm water
- 1 cup buttermilk
Steps to Prepare ๐ฝ๏ธ
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Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, and salt. Mix them well.
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Cut in Butter: Add the cubed cold butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the dry mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
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Add Yeast Mixture: Pour the activated yeast mixture and buttermilk into the dry ingredients. Stir until the dough comes together. It will be soft and slightly sticky.
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Knead and Rest: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it gently a few times until it’s no longer sticky. Then, cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for 20-30 minutes.
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Roll and Cut: After resting, roll the dough out to about 1/2 inch thickness. Use a biscuit cutter to cut out biscuits.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 400ยฐF (200ยฐC). Place the biscuits on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes or until they are golden brown on top.
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Serve: Serve your freshly baked angel biscuits warm with butter, jam, or gravy.
Time Needed โฑ๏ธ
The preparation time for angel biscuits can vary, but it typically takes around 20-30 minutes to prepare the dough, plus an additional 12-15 minutes for baking. So, in total, you can expect to spend about 32-45 minutes from start to finish.
Angel biscuits are a delightful addition to any meal and are sure to impress with their light and fluffy texture. Enjoy making and savoring these heavenly treats! ๐ผ๐ช
Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Angel Biscuits:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate values per biscuit):
- Calories: 150-200 calories
- Total Fat: 7-9 grams
- Saturated Fat: 4-5 grams
- Cholesterol: 15-20 milligrams
- Sodium: 250-300 milligrams
- Total Carbohydrates: 18-20 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 0-1 gram
- Sugars: 2-3 grams
- Protein: 2-3 grams
Health Information:
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Moderate Calorie Content: Angel biscuits are moderately calorie-dense, with around 150-200 calories per biscuit. This makes them suitable as an occasional treat but not an everyday indulgence for those watching their calorie intake.
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Fat Content: These biscuits contain a moderate amount of fat, primarily from butter. While fat is an essential nutrient, it’s advisable to consume them in moderation, especially if you’re on a low-fat diet.
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Saturated Fat: Saturated fat content is relatively high in angel biscuits due to the butter. High saturated fat intake should be limited as it can contribute to heart health issues when consumed in excess.
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Cholesterol: Angel biscuits contain a moderate amount of cholesterol, so individuals with high cholesterol levels should consume them in moderation.
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Sodium: The sodium content can vary but is typically moderate. If you have high blood pressure or are watching your sodium intake, be mindful of your biscuit consumption.
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Carbohydrates: Angel biscuits are a source of carbohydrates, mainly from flour and sugar. Carbohydrates provide energy, but be cautious if you are managing your carb intake.
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Dietary Fiber: These biscuits are not a significant source of dietary fiber, which is important for digestive health. Consider adding fiber-rich foods to your meal for a balanced diet.
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Protein: Angel biscuits provide a small amount of protein. To meet your daily protein needs, include other protein-rich foods in your diet.
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Occasional Treat: Due to their calorie and fat content, angel biscuits are best enjoyed in moderation as an occasional treat rather than a dietary staple.
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Pairing: Consider pairing angel biscuits with healthier choices like fresh fruits, vegetables, or lean proteins to balance your meal’s nutritional profile.
Remember that the nutrition values can vary based on the specific recipe and ingredients used, so it’s essential to be mindful of portion sizes and overall dietary choices for a balanced and healthy diet.