Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Biscuits
These classic buttermilk biscuits are flaky, tender, and golden, perfect for breakfast or alongside hearty meals. Their buttery flavor and soft texture appeal to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda in a bowl.
- Cut in the shortening until the mixture resembles coarse cornmeal.
- Add buttermilk and stir until well mixed.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead lightly 3 or 4 times.
- Roll the dough to 1/4-inch thickness.
- Cut into rounds with a 2 1/2-inch cutter.
- Bake at 475°F for 10 minutes or until golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For flakier biscuits, make sure your shortening is very cold before cutting it into the flour mixture. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. For added flavor, consider folding in some shredded cheese or herbs. Be careful not to over-knead the dough to maintain its light texture.
Serving Suggestions
These buttermilk biscuits are perfect for breakfast or brunch, served warm with butter and honey. They also pair beautifully with savory dishes like fried chicken or creamy gravies, making them a great side for hearty meals. Consider serving with a fresh salad like Rave Salad for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them by placing them in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Biscuits contains roughly 40 calories, with 2g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 610mg per serving (27% 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 ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before rolling it out. This helps the butter relax for better results.
What can I use instead of shortening?
You can substitute shortening with an equal amount of butter or margarine. Keep in mind that butter will give the biscuits a richer flavor, but may alter the texture slightly. For a healthier alternative, you can also use coconut oil.
How do I know when the biscuits are done?
Biscuits are done when they are golden brown on the top and have risen nicely. You can also tap the bottom; if it sounds hollow, they are likely ready. Overbaking can lead to dryness, so keep an eye on them.
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).