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Flaky Buttermilk Biscuits

Delightful and comforting flaky biscuits that are easy to make and perfect for any meal. Warm and buttery, they evoke feelings of nostalgia and family gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Total Time 38 minutes
Servings: 8 biscuits
Course: Breakfast, Brunch, Snack
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 210

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour The foundation of your biscuits, providing structure.
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder This ingredient gives them the lift they need to rise beautifully.
  • 2 teaspoons sugar Just a hint of sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Enhances the overall taste and rounds out the sweetness.
  • ¼ teaspoon baking soda Provides extra lift and contributes to that light, airy texture.
Wet Ingredients
  • 8 tablespoons unsalted butter Very cold and cut into small cubes or grated, this is key for a flaky texture.
  • ¾ cup buttermilk Very cold; it adds moisture and tanginess that enhances the flavor.
  • 1 large egg Whisked with water for an egg wash for a lovely golden top (optional).

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 450°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, and salt.
  3. Add the cold butter, cubed or grated, and cut it into the flour mixture until it resembles flat, crumbly pieces.
  4. Make a well in the center of the mixture and pour in the very cold buttermilk. Mix gently until a shaggy dough forms.
  5. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and press it into a square about 1 inch thick. Cut this square into four pieces, stack them, and press it into a square again. Repeat this process two more times.
  6. Pat the dough into a rectangle, ½ to ¾ inch thick, and use a biscuit cutter to cut out rounds or squares.
  7. Place the shaped biscuits on the prepared baking sheet and freeze them for 10 to 15 minutes.
  8. Brush the tops with the egg wash if using, then bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes.
  9. Allow the biscuits to cool for at least 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use very cold ingredients for flakier biscuits. Don’t overwork the dough to maintain fluffiness. Experiment with flavors by adding cheese, herbs, or spices.