Southern-Style Buttermilk Biscuits

Introduction:

Southern-Style Buttermilk Biscuits are an iconic component of American Southern cuisine, celebrated for their flaky, buttery layers and golden, crisp tops. These versatile biscuits can enhance any meal—whether enjoyed with savory gravy for breakfast, as a side with fried chicken at dinner, or paired with a sweet spread for a delightful snack. The key to achieving perfect biscuits is in the technique: minimal handling for maximum flakiness.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus additional for dusting
• 4 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1 cup buttermilk, cold
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted, for brushing

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar if using.
3. Cut in the Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry blender or your fingertips, quickly incorporate the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, with some larger pieces of butter remaining.
4. Add Buttermilk: Pour in the cold buttermilk and gently stir with a fork until the dough begins to come together. Avoid overmixing; the dough should remain somewhat sticky.
5. Shape the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Gently fold the dough over itself 2-3 times to create layers. Roll out to a 1-inch thickness and use a round biscuit cutter to cut out biscuits. Re-roll any scraps to make additional biscuits.
6. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the biscuits on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they touch each other to promote even rising.
7. Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.
8. Brush with Butter: Remove the biscuits from the oven and immediately brush the tops with melted butter.
9. Cool and Serve: Allow the biscuits to cool slightly on the baking sheet before serving warm.

Conclusion:

These Southern-Style Buttermilk Biscuits are the epitome of tender and flaky perfection, featuring rich, buttery layers that melt in your mouth. Whether as part of a hearty breakfast or a delightful side to your dinner, these biscuits bring comfort and a touch of Southern charm to any table. Enjoy them fresh from the oven for the ultimate experience.