Goodnight-Loving Trail Buttermilk Biscuits
Buttermilk biscuits with flaky texture and rich flavor, perfect for breakfast or brunch, appealing to those who enjoy hearty, homemade baked goods with a touch of Southern tradition.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine 3 cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 2 teaspoons of salt in a mixing bowl.
- Add a piece of lard the size of an egg to the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly.
- Pour in enough buttermilk or clabber to make a soft dough, mixing until just combined.
- Turn the dough onto a well-floured board and knead lightly until it does not stick to your fingers.
- Roll out the dough to about 1/2-inch thickness using a rolling pin or press with your hands.
- Cut the dough into biscuits using a cutter or shape by squeezing with hands.
- Place the biscuits in a well-greased pan, using melted lard to grease the pan.
- Spoon a tablespoon of melted lard over each biscuit to cover them well.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F until the biscuits are golden brown, about 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flakier biscuit, make sure the lard is very cold when you incorporate it into the flour mixture. If you don't have lard, unsalted butter or vegetable shortening can be used as substitutes. Additionally, avoid overworking the dough to keep the biscuits tender. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding herbs or cheese for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These buttermilk biscuits are perfect for breakfast, served with butter and jam, or alongside a hearty stew. They pair beautifully with Camping Cobbler for a delightful outdoor meal. For a savory option, consider serving them with fried chicken or as a base for biscuits and gravy.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Goodnight-Loving Trail Buttermilk Biscuits contains roughly 279 calories, with 8g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is a good source of protein (15% of the Daily Value) and iron (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1311mg per serving (57% 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
Can I make these biscuits without buttermilk?
Yes, if you don't have buttermilk, you can substitute it with milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to sour before using it in the recipe.
What can I add to the biscuit dough for extra flavor?
You can mix in shredded cheese, chopped herbs, or even cooked bacon bits to the dough for added flavor. This versatility allows you to customize the biscuits to your taste preferences.
How do I know when the biscuits are done baking?
The biscuits are ready when they are golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. Keep an eye on them around the 12-minute mark to prevent over-baking.
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).