Southern Yeast Biscuit Dough
Southern Yeast Biscuit Dough offers a flaky, tender texture with a subtle yeasty flavor, perfect for breakfast or brunch. Its rich, buttery taste pairs well with jams, honey, or savory toppings. Ideal for those who enjoy classic Southern baked goods with a homemade touch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the warm water and sugar in a small bowl.
- Stir in the yeast and set aside until bubbly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the self-rising flour and baking soda.
- Cut in the shortening using a pastry blender, fork, or fingertips until the mixture resembles cornmeal.
- Add the yeast mixture and buttermilk to the flour mixture.
- Stir with a large wooden spoon until well mixed; the dough will not be smooth.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate until needed; it will keep about 1 week.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your water is warm but not hot, as high temperatures can kill the yeast. If you don't have self-rising flour, you can make your own by combining all-purpose flour with baking powder and salt. Consider using butter instead of shortening for a richer flavor. This biscuit dough can also be shaped into rolls or used for a base in dishes like Yeast Muffins.
Serving Suggestions
These Southern yeast biscuits are perfect with butter and honey or served alongside a hearty stew. They also pair beautifully with Sweet Potato Balls for a comforting meal. Consider serving them with jam or gravy for breakfast or brunch. For a complete spread, include fresh fruit and a light salad to balance the richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store the biscuit dough in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. When you're ready to use it, simply scoop out the desired amount and let it come to room temperature before baking. If you have leftover baked biscuits, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or freeze them for longer storage.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Southern Yeast Biscuit Dough contains roughly 3368 calories, with 57g protein, 121g carbohydrates, and 311g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (138% of the Daily Value), protein (115% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (41% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 39g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 this biscuit dough ahead of time?
Yes, this biscuit dough can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When ready to use, take it out and let it rest at room temperature before shaping and baking.
What can I substitute for buttermilk?
If you don't have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly. This will give you a similar acidity and texture needed for the recipe.
How do I know if my yeast is active?
To check if your yeast is active, combine it with warm water and sugar, as instructed. After about 5-10 minutes, the mixture should become bubbly and frothy. If it doesn't, your yeast may be expired or the water was too hot or cold, so it's best to start over.
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).