Homemade buttermilk biscuits are a timeless comfort food. They are soft, flaky, and have a slightly tangy flavor due to the buttermilk. These biscuits can be enjoyed with butter, honey, or as a side to savory dishes like soups and stews.
This guide explains how to make homemade buttermilk biscuits, key ingredients, and common questions about the baking process homemade buttermilk biscuits.
What Are Buttermilk Biscuits?
Buttermilk biscuits are a type of quick bread made with flour, baking powder, baking soda, butter, and buttermilk. Unlike yeast breads, they use chemical leavening agents for rise. The acidity in buttermilk reacts with baking soda to create light, tender biscuits.
Ingredients for Homemade Buttermilk Biscuits
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (approximately 240 grams)
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter (cut into small pieces)
- 3/4 cup cold buttermilk (180 ml)
Using cold butter and buttermilk helps achieve flaky layers.
Step-by-Step Buttermilk Biscuits Recipe
1. Preheat the Oven
Set the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir well to distribute evenly.
3. Cut in the Butter
Add cold butter pieces to the dry mix. Use a pastry cutter or fingers to blend butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Add Buttermilk
Pour cold buttermilk into the mixture. Stir gently until just combined. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
5. Knead and Shape
Turn dough onto a floured surface. Fold and press the dough gently 3 to 4 times to create layers. Pat dough to about 1-inch thickness.
6. Cut Biscuits
Use a round biscuit cutter (about 2.5 inches diameter) to cut biscuits. Press straight down without twisting to keep edges sharp.
7. Bake Biscuits
Place biscuits close but not touching on the baking sheet. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until golden brown on top.
8. Serve Warm
Remove biscuits from oven and cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with butter, jam, or gravy.
Tips for Perfect Buttermilk Biscuits
- Keep butter and buttermilk cold to create flaky texture.
- Avoid overmixing dough to prevent tough biscuits.
- Use fresh baking powder and baking soda for proper rise.
- For softer biscuits, brush tops with melted butter after baking.
FAQ: Homemade Buttermilk Biscuits
Can I substitute regular milk for buttermilk?
Regular milk can be used with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar added to sour it. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
How should I store leftover biscuits?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.
Can I make biscuits ahead of time?
Yes. Cut biscuits can be frozen on a baking sheet, then transferred to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen with extra baking time.
Why are my biscuits dense?
Dense biscuits usually result from overmixing or using warm butter. Ensure gentle handling and cold ingredients.
Can I add flavors to biscuits?
Yes. Ingredients like shredded cheese, herbs, or spices can be added to the dough for variety.
Conclusion
Homemade buttermilk biscuits are a simple yet delicious addition to any meal. This recipe combines basic pantry ingredients to create light, flaky biscuits with a slight tang from buttermilk.
Attention to ingredient temperature, mixing technique, and baking time ensures the best results. Freshly baked biscuits can be enjoyed alone or with a variety of toppings.
Making homemade buttermilk biscuits provides a rewarding baking experience and a comforting taste of classic cooking.