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Classic Buttermilk Biscuits are the epitome of comfort food, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a side dish to your favorite meal. Fluffy, buttery, and incredibly easy to make, these biscuits are a staple in Southern cooking. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these delightful treats that are sure to impress family and friends. Whether you enjoy them with gravy, jam, or simply with butter, these biscuits are a must-try!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 3/4 cup buttermilk, cold
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). This high temperature is key to achieving those perfectly flaky layers.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk together until well blended.
Step 3: Cut in the Butter
Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Be careful not to overwork the dough.
Step 4: Add Buttermilk
Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the cold buttermilk. Stir gently with a fork until just combined. The dough should be slightly sticky.
Step 5: Turn Out the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Gently knead the dough 3-4 times until it comes together. Pat it into a 1-inch thick rectangle.
Step 6: Cut the Biscuits
Using a biscuit cutter or a glass, cut out biscuits from the dough. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they are touching for soft sides.
Step 7: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack.
FAQs
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
While buttermilk gives the biscuits their signature flavor and tenderness, you can substitute regular milk by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 3/4 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes to mimic buttermilk.
How do I store leftover biscuits?
Store leftover biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the biscuit dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking. Just be sure to handle the dough gently to maintain its flakiness.
Why are my biscuits not rising?
Common reasons for biscuits not rising include using expired baking powder or baking soda, overworking the dough, or not using cold ingredients. Ensure all your ingredients are fresh and cold for the best results.
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