Fluffy, buttery, and with just the right amount of flakiness, Southern biscuits are a staple of comfort food. These biscuits are perfect for pairing with sausage gravy, slathering with jam, or enjoying on their own with a pat of melting butter. Their golden-brown tops and soft, tender interiors are the hallmark of a traditional Southern breakfast. With a simple list of ingredients and a quick preparation time, this recipe will transport you to a warm kitchen on a Sunday morning in the South.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for a hint of sweetness)
- 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 3/4 cup cold whole milk or buttermilk
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar (if using).
- Cut in the butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, quickly work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Be careful not to overwork the dough; small pieces of butter create the desired flakiness.
- Add the milk: Pour the cold milk or buttermilk into the bowl. Stir gently with a fork or wooden spoon until the dough just comes together. The dough should be slightly sticky.
- Knead and roll: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead it 3-4 times to bring it together, then pat it into a 1-inch thick circle or rectangle.
- Cut the biscuits: Use a round biscuit cutter or the rim of a glass (dusted with flour) to cut out biscuits. Press straight down without twisting to ensure the biscuits rise evenly. Re-roll scraps to cut additional biscuits.
- Bake: Place the biscuits on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are close but not touching. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.
- Serve warm: Remove from the oven and brush the tops with melted butter, if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings or sides.
Tips:
- For extra-tall biscuits, chill the dough in the fridge for 15 minutes before baking.
- Avoid overworking the dough to keep the biscuits tender.
- Swap milk for buttermilk for a slightly tangier flavor.
Enjoy your homemade Southern biscuits, a true classic!
