Nashville House Fried Biscuits Recipe
If you’ve ever been to Brown County, Indiana, you may have visited the iconic Nashville House, known for their delicious fried biscuits, which are served with fresh apple butter. These golden, crispy biscuits have a rich, tender interior that perfectly complements the sweet and savory flavors of the apple butter. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or enjoy a taste of Southern comfort, this recipe will bring the charm of Nashville House right into your kitchen.
Ingredients for Nashville House Fried Biscuits
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Milk | 1 cup |
| Sugar | 1/4 cup |
| Dry yeast | 2 2/3 tsp |
| Shortening | 1 tbsp |
| Salt | 6 tsp |
| Flour | 7-9 cups |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutritional Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 843.9 |
| Fat Content | 35.7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 14.9 g |
| Cholesterol | 47.3 mg |
| Sodium | 2065.4 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 110 g |
| Fiber | 3.9 g |
| Sugar | 7.5 g |
| Protein | 18.5 g |
Instructions
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Activate Yeast: Start by adding the dry yeast to warm water (around 110°F), following the instructions provided on the yeast package. Let it dissolve and bloom for about 5-10 minutes.
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Mix Ingredients: Once the yeast mixture is ready, add the milk, sugar, salt, and shortening to the bowl. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined, ensuring the shortening is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
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Add Flour: Gradually incorporate the flour, one cup at a time, mixing as you go. Keep adding flour until you form a soft dough. Depending on humidity and flour type, you may use slightly more or less than the specified amount.
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Let the Dough Rise: Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free location for about 30 minutes to an hour. The dough should double in size.
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Shape the Biscuits: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Work the dough gently and shape it into small rounds, about the size of a golf ball, without letting them rise too much. Be careful not to overwork the dough, as this could result in dense biscuits.
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Heat the Oil: Heat the oil in a deep frying pan or Dutch oven. The oil should be slightly hotter than 350°F, but not too hot. You can test this by dropping a small piece of dough into the oil—if it bubbles and rises to the surface, it’s ready.
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Fry the Biscuits: Carefully drop the biscuit dough into the hot oil, a few at a time, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until the biscuits are golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 3-5 minutes.
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Drain and Serve: Use a slotted spoon to remove the biscuits from the oil and drain on paper towels. Once drained, serve the biscuits warm with a dollop of apple butter for an authentic Nashville House experience.
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Optional Storage: If you have leftovers or want to make these biscuits in advance, freeze them individually. Once cooled, store in plastic bags in the freezer. When ready to serve, reheat by popping them in a warm oven for a few minutes.
Pro Tips for Perfect Fried Biscuits
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Temperature Control: Ensure the oil is at the correct temperature before frying. If it’s too hot, the biscuits will brown too quickly on the outside but remain raw in the center. If it’s too cold, they may become greasy and soggy.
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Flour Amount: The amount of flour can vary depending on the humidity in your kitchen. Start with 7 cups and add more as needed to form a soft dough.
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Don’t Overwork the Dough: Overworking the dough can make the biscuits dense. Handle the dough gently to maintain a light, airy texture.
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Storage Tips: These biscuits freeze beautifully. Be sure to freeze them as soon as they are cooled to preserve their freshness.
Recipe Yield
This recipe makes approximately 7 dozen delicious fried biscuits—perfect for a family gathering or a large brunch.
These Nashville House Fried Biscuits are a true Southern delicacy that brings comfort and nostalgia in every bite. Whether you serve them with homemade apple butter or as part of a larger spread, they’re sure to be a crowd favorite.
