Flaky Buttermilk Biscuits
Flaky buttermilk biscuits with tender crumb and golden crust, perfect for breakfast or brunch, complementing savory or sweet spreads and suitable for all biscuit lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Cut in shortening until the mixture is crumbly.
- Stir in buttermilk just until the dough is moistened.
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface.
- Knead until smooth, about 1 minute.
- Roll out the dough to 3/4-inch (1.9 cm) thickness.
- Cut into 8 (2-inch) biscuits and place them 1 inch apart on a cookie sheet.
- Bake for 10 to 14 minutes or until lightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use cold shortening and buttermilk to achieve flaky layers. If you don't have shortening, butter can be substituted for a richer flavor, though the texture may vary slightly. Ensure not to over-knead the dough; just enough to bring it together is key. For added flavor, consider tossing in herbs or cheese to the dough, aligning with the style of American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
These flaky buttermilk biscuits are perfect for breakfast, served warm with butter and jam or alongside a hearty gravy. They also pair wonderfully with fried chicken or as a base for biscuits and gravy. For a delightful twist, try them with the Chocolate Kahlua Mousse for dessert. Serve them fresh out of the oven for the best experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them individually wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, place frozen biscuits on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Flaky Buttermilk Biscuits contains roughly 114 calories, with 4g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of calcium (16% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1174mg per serving (51% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are my biscuits not rising as expected?
If your biscuits aren't rising, it may be due to outdated baking powder or overmixing the dough. Ensure your baking powder is fresh and mix just until ingredients are combined. Also, remember that the oven should be preheated, as a hot oven helps the biscuits rise quickly.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the biscuit dough in advance. After mixing, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, roll out and cut the biscuits as directed. They may require an extra minute or two in the oven if chilled.
What can I add to the biscuit dough for extra flavor?
You can enhance the flavor of your biscuits by adding ingredients like shredded cheese, chopped herbs, or spices such as garlic powder. For a sweet twist, consider incorporating a bit of sugar or adding dried fruits like cranberries or blueberries, making them a delightful complement to dishes like Blueberry Salad Supreme.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).