Flaky Southern Buttermilk Biscuits Recipe

Southern Buttermilk Biscuits Recipe
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Course: Snack
Cuisine: Continental
Diet: Vegetarian

Buttermilk biscuits are a beloved Southern classic, adored for their flaky, tender texture and irresistible aroma. These golden-brown biscuits, baked to perfection with a firm yet soft crumb, hold a delightful contrast between a crispy exterior and a moist, fluffy interior. Unlike other breads that require yeast, these biscuits are leavened with a combination of baking powder and baking soda, which give them their signature rise.

Served warm, these biscuits are perfect with butter, honey, jelly, gravy, or sorghum molasses. Whether enjoyed with a hearty breakfast or as a comforting snack during tea time, Southern buttermilk biscuits never fail to impress.

Ingredients

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare
   Begin by preheating your oven to 450°F (232°C). Prepare a baking pan by lining it with aluminum foil and lightly greasing it with butter or oil.

2. Sift the Dry Ingredients
   In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Sift the ingredients together to ensure they are evenly mixed.

3. Incorporate the Butter
   Add the cubed unsalted butter to the dry ingredients. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step helps create the flakiness in the biscuits.

4. Add the Wet Ingredients
   Gradually add the cold buttermilk to the flour-butter mixture. Mix it gently with your hands, kneading the dough until it comes together. Be careful not to overwork the dough to avoid dense biscuits. If the dough feels too dry, add a splash more buttermilk to achieve a smooth consistency.

5. Shape the Dough
   Gently pat the dough into a 1/2-inch thick rectangle using your hands. Avoid using a rolling pin, as this can make the biscuits tough by overstimulating the gluten.

6. Fold and Cut
   Fold the dough over itself about 4 times to create layers, then press it down gently to a 1-inch thickness. Using a round cutter or a glass, cut out the biscuits. Gather any scraps, gently knead them together, and cut out a few more biscuits.

7. Prepare for Baking
   Place the biscuits on the prepared baking pan, ensuring they are touching slightly for a soft, tender side. Brush the tops of the biscuits with fresh cream for a golden finish during baking.

8. Bake to Perfection
   Place the pan in the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the tops of the biscuits are lightly golden brown. The exact baking time will depend on the size of your biscuits, so keep an eye on them.

9. Finish with Butter
   Once baked, remove the biscuits from the oven. For an extra touch of flavor, brush the tops with melted butter while they are still hot. This step adds a rich, glossy sheen to the biscuits.

10. Serve
    Serve the warm Southern buttermilk biscuits alongside a cup of Masala Chai or as a savory tea-time snack. You can also pair them with a delicious Masala Oats & Potato Sandwich for a more filling breakfast. These biscuits are perfect for any occasion, whether as a comforting side to your meal or a delightful treat on their own.

Tips for Perfect Biscuits

• Cold Butter and Buttermilk: Ensure your butter and buttermilk are cold, as this helps create a flakier texture when baking. The cold butter creates pockets of air in the dough, which gives the biscuits their lightness.
• Don’t Overwork the Dough: Over-kneading or over-handling the dough will activate the gluten and result in tough biscuits. Mix just until the dough comes together.
• Use a Round Cutter: A round cutter works best for achieving clean edges and even rising. If you don’t have a cutter, a clean glass will work as well.

Enjoy your Southern buttermilk biscuits with your favorite toppings or alongside a hearty meal. These biscuits, with their melt-in-your-mouth texture and savory flavor, are a true Southern delicacy.