Buttermilk biscuits are a staple in Southern cuisine and have been enjoyed for generations—a freshly baked biscuit’s warm and flaky texture pairs perfectly with any main course. While making biscuits may seem daunting to some, anyone can create a delicious batch of Southern-style buttermilk biscuits with the right recipe and technique.
This blog will provide an easy-to-follow recipe for buttery, fluffy, and irresistible buttermilk biscuits. So, grab your apron and get ready to impress your family and friends with your baking skills!
Can you make buttermilk at home?
Buttermilk is a tangy and acidic liquid often used in baking and cooking. Although you can buy buttermilk from grocery stores, which is very convenient, making it at home is also very easy. Homemade buttermilk has a fresher taste and is often less expensive than store-bought buttermilk. Here’s what you have to do:
Combine one cup of milk with one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice.
Stir the mixture well and let it sit for five to ten minutes. This will allow the acid to react and thicken the milk, creating a tangy and slightly thickened liquid similar to buttermilk that’s great for biscuits.
How can I make these biscuits fancy?
Although Southern Style Buttermilk Biscuits taste good, adding a few extra ingredients can make them taste even better. Here are some ideas for you to try:
- Cheese: Cheese is an excellent way to add flavor and texture to the biscuits. Add shredded cheddar or grated parmesan cheese for a cheesy taste and texture.
- Bacon: Adding bacon bits to the biscuits takes the flavor up a notch and makes them more savory.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, chives, etc., add a pleasant flavor to the biscuits. You can also add dried herbs for taste and aroma.
- Cinnamon: To sweeten these savory biscuits, add honey and cinnamon. You can also add sweet potatoes for a more refined sweetness.
- Dried fruits/nuts: You might find adding dried fruits or nuts a bit unusual, but trust me, they add a unique flavor and crunch to these buttermilk biscuits.
- Glaze: adding a sweet glaze on top will make these biscuits enjoyable and tasteful.
How to store Southern Style Buttermilk Biscuits?
If you have leftovers or want to make a big batch for later, it’s essential to know how to store them properly to keep them fresh and delicious. Here’s how you can store Southern-style buttermilk biscuits:
- Let the biscuits cool to room temperature before you store them.
- Once the biscuits have reached room temperature, transfer them to a resealable plastic bag or an airtight container. If using a plastic bag, press out as much air as possible before sealing it.
- Store the biscuits in the refrigerator for up to five days.
- If you want to store buttermilk biscuits for longer, wrap the biscuits individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze them for up to three months.
Southern-Style Buttermilk Biscuits
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Pastry cutter or fork
- Rolling pin (optional)
- Biscuit cutter or floured glass
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup cold unsalted butter cubed
- ¾ cup cold buttermilk
- Optional: 1-2 teaspoons sugar for a touch of sweetness
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl.
- Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in the cold buttermilk until just combined.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface, pat into a 1-inch thick rectangle, fold, and re-pat.
- Cut biscuits using a cutter or drop spoonfuls onto a baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden.
- Cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Handle the dough gently to avoid overmixing.
- Use chilled ingredients to ensure maximum flakiness.
- Experiment with additional herbs or cheese for a creative twist on this classic recipe.
