A Touch of Grandma’s Kitchen: Southern Buttermilk Biscuits
As a child roaming my grandmother’s kitchen, the intoxicating aroma of freshly baked biscuits was a soulful invitation for my siblings and me. Every Sunday, she would roll out dough on the worn wooden countertop, her laughter mixing with the sound of the oven clock ticking down to the golden hour when those fluffy, buttery biscuits would emerge, steam billowing like happy clouds. They were a cornerstone of our family brunches, served alongside homemade jam and gravy, and loved by everyone—whether piled high on a plate or simply enjoyed warm with a pat of butter.
This Southern Buttermilk Biscuit recipe is special not just for its deliciously flaky texture but also for its ability to create moments of connection. Perfect for any season, these biscuits can grace Thanksgiving tables, simple weekday breakfasts, or leisurely weekend brunches. Their irresistible appeal lies in their simplicity and ability to evoke warmth and comfort with every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Buttermilk Biscuit Recipe
- One-bowl wonder: Minimal cleanup required.
- No special equipment: Just your hands and a rolling pin.
- Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even sopping up gravy.
- Kid-approved: Fun to make and even more fun to eat!
- Freezer-friendly: Make ahead and bake when you’re ready.
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
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C).
Prepare the Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of salt until well combined.
Incorporate the Butter
- Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Mix with Buttermilk
- Pour in 3/4 cup of buttermilk and stir gently with a fork until the dough just comes together. Avoid overmixing; this will keep them flaky!
Shape the Biscuits
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it just enough to bring it together into a ball. Pat it out to about 1-inch thickness.
- Use a biscuit cutter or a glass to cut out biscuits. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, just touching for that irresistible flaky edge.
Bake
- Bake the biscuits in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Serve Warm
- Let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm with butter, honey, or your favorite preserve!
Tips & Variations
- Add Herbs: Mix in chopped rosemary or thyme for a savory twist.
- Cheese Lovers: Incorporate shredded cheddar cheese into the dough for a cheesy biscuit.
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a delicious alternative.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftover biscuits in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze unbaked biscuits on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Nutritional Information
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
- Calories per serving: Approximately 150
- Servings: About 8 biscuits
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use whole milk instead of buttermilk?
- Yes, but it’s best to add a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to milk and let it stand for 5 minutes to mimic buttermilk.
2. What can I substitute for butter?
- You can try using coconut oil or a plant-based butter for a dairy-free option.
3. How can I ensure my biscuits are flaky?
- Use cold ingredients, handle the dough as little as possible, and don’t overmix!
4. Can these biscuits be made ahead of time?
- Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day ahead and bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve.
Serving Suggestions or Pairings
- Serve with fried chicken and gravy for a comforting meal.
- Pair with scrambled eggs and bacon for a hearty breakfast.
Final Thoughts
Southern Buttermilk Biscuits hold a special place in my heart, dear readers. They are a beautiful way to evoke memories of family gatherings while creating new ones in your own kitchen. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and share your own versions with me! Please leave a comment below or tag me on social media with your delicious creations. Happy baking!