Name: Southern Buttermilk Biscuits
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Ingredients: 2 cups self-rising flour; 2 pinches kosher salt; 3 tablespoons shortening; 1 tablespoon butter (very cold); 1 cup buttermilk; 1 tablespoon butter (melted (optional))

Jump to Recipe Print it

Every time I think of Southern Buttermilk Biscuits, I’m transported back to my grandmother’s cozy kitchen. It was a Saturday morning tradition, the aroma of freshly baked biscuits wafting through the air, making the entire house feel warm and welcoming. She would roll out the dough on the floured countertop, her hands moving with such grace and confidence. I remember how her biscuits would rise beautifully in the oven, turning golden brown, and how we could hardly wait to slather them with butter or serve them alongside a hearty breakfast. These Southern Buttermilk Biscuits are not just a recipe; they are a celebration of family and tradition, a simple yet profound way to connect with loved ones over a meal. Whether you enjoy them at breakfast, brunch, or even as a side with dinner, they are sure to bring a smile to your face.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
22 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
12 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
180 kcal

Protein:
3 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
8 g

Tools Used:
Baking Sheet, Oven, Skillet, Mixing Bowl

Why We Love This Southern Buttermilk Biscuits

Comfort and Warmth

There’s something incredibly comforting about Southern Buttermilk Biscuits. With their soft, flaky texture, they remind me of home. The moment they come out of the oven, you can feel the warmth radiating from them, inviting you to take a bite. They are the perfect vessel for butter and honey, or even to accompany a hearty meal.

Versatility

These biscuits are truly versatile! You can enjoy them plain, or fill them with jam, or even use them as the base for a breakfast sandwich. Their neutral flavor profile makes them a great addition to any meal, creating endless possibilities for pairing.

Simple Ingredients

The beauty of Southern Buttermilk Biscuits lies in their simplicity. With just a handful of everyday ingredients, you can create something extraordinary. Each component plays a crucial role, from the self-rising flour that provides the lift to the buttermilk that adds that rich, tangy flavor. It’s a humble recipe that yields impressive results.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a lazy Sunday morning or a festive holiday gathering, Southern Buttermilk Biscuits fit right in. They can elevate any meal, making it feel special and cherished. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen a simple meal transformed when these biscuits are present!

A Taste of Tradition

Making these biscuits is a way to honor our culinary heritage. They remind us of the love and dedication our ancestors poured into their cooking. When I make Southern Buttermilk Biscuits, I feel a connection to those who came before me, and I’m excited to pass this tradition on to the next generation.

Easy to Make

Even if you’re a novice in the kitchen, you can whip up these biscuits with ease. There’s something empowering about baking from scratch, and this recipe is perfect for building your confidence. You’ll surprise yourself with how quickly you can create a batch of these delicious biscuits!

Ingredients Required for Southern Buttermilk Biscuits

When it comes to Southern Buttermilk Biscuits, the ingredients are simple yet effective. Each one plays a pivotal role in creating that light and fluffy texture we all crave. The magic happens when they come together in the mixing bowl, creating a dough that rises beautifully in the oven.

2 cups self-rising flour: This is the cornerstone of the biscuits, providing structure and the lift that makes them fluffy.
2 pinches kosher salt: A touch of salt enhances the flavors of the ingredients, balancing out the richness.
3 tablespoons shortening: This fat contributes to the tender texture, creating those beloved flaky layers.
1 tablespoon butter, very cold: Adding a bit of cold butter deepens the flavor and contributes to the layers.
1 cup buttermilk: The star ingredient, it not only adds flavor but also reacts with the baking soda to help the biscuits rise.
1 tablespoon butter, melted (optional): A final brush of melted butter gives the biscuits a beautiful sheen and rich flavor.

Directions for Southern Buttermilk Biscuits

Making Southern Buttermilk Biscuits is a delightful process! You’ll find that each step is straightforward, and the results are incredibly rewarding. Let’s get to baking!

Preheat your oven to 475º F. This high temperature is crucial for achieving that golden-brown color and flaky texture.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the self-rising flour and kosher salt. Whisk them together to ensure they are well mixed.
Now, it’s time to cut in the shortening and very cold butter. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix them into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is key to getting those flaky layers.
Slowly pour in the buttermilk, mixing gently with a spoon or your hands just until the dough holds together. Be careful not to overwork it!
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently pat it into a round disc, about half an inch thick. Try to avoid using a rolling pin, as this can flatten the layers.
Using a sharp metal or glass cutter, cut the dough into rounds. The sharper the cutter, the cleaner the cut, which helps the biscuits rise evenly.
Place the cut biscuits into a well-greased baking dish or skillet, making sure they touch slightly. This will help them rise taller.
Brush the tops lightly with the melted butter if you’re using it. This will add a beautiful golden finish.
Now, place them in the hot oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Keep an eye on them as they bake; you want that perfect golden hue!
Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. They are best enjoyed warm!

Things Worth Knowing

Use cold ingredients: Keeping your butter and buttermilk cold helps create steam during baking, which results in a fluffier biscuit.
Don’t overmix: When combining the dough, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough biscuits.
Rest the dough: Letting the dough rest for a few minutes before cutting can help the gluten relax, making for a tender biscuit.
Experiment with shapes: Feel free to use a biscuit cutter, glass, or even a knife to shape your biscuits. The shape can change the texture slightly.

Recipe Variations about Southern Buttermilk Biscuits

There are so many ways to enjoy Southern Buttermilk Biscuits. Whether you want to add a twist or keep it classic, here are some ideas to inspire you!

Add herbs: Mix in fresh chopped herbs like rosemary or chives for an herbaceous flavor that elevates your biscuits.
Cheese it up: Incorporate shredded cheese like cheddar for a savory twist that pairs beautifully with the biscuit.
Sweeten them: Add a tablespoon of sugar to the dough for a hint of sweetness, perfect for serving with jam or honey.
Stuff them: Try adding fillings like cooked sausage or ham for a heartier biscuit, perfect for breakfast sandwiches.
Use flavored buttermilk: Consider using buttermilk infused with herbs or spices for added complexity in flavor.

Serving Ideas for Southern Buttermilk Biscuits

Serving Southern Buttermilk Biscuits can be a delightful experience! Here are some ideas to make the most of them:

Breakfast staple: Serve them warm with scrambled eggs and fresh fruit for a classic breakfast.
Brunch delight: Pair biscuits with a variety of jams, honey, or butter for a beautiful brunch spread.
Complementary side: Enjoy them alongside a hearty soup or chili to soak up all the delicious flavors.
Holiday treat: These biscuits are perfect for holiday dinners, served with gravy or as a side to roasted meats.
Picnic addition: Pack them for a picnic; they are easy to transport and taste great at room temperature.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to two days. Reheat them in the oven for the best texture.

FAQ

Southern Buttermilk Biscuits are unique due to their use of buttermilk, which gives them a distinct tangy flavor and contributes to a light, flaky texture. The inclusion of self-rising flour also sets them apart, allowing for a higher rise and tender crumb. These biscuits are often made with a higher fat content than regular recipes, resulting in a richer taste that’s hard to resist. Additionally, the traditional method of gently mixing the dough ensures that they remain tender and fluffy, making them a beloved Southern staple.

Yes, you can prepare Southern Buttermilk Biscuits ahead of time. You can cut the dough into rounds and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover the sheet with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. If you want to store them longer, you can freeze the unbaked biscuits. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just pop them straight into the oven from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. This way, you can always have fresh, warm biscuits ready whenever you like!

There are so many delicious options to serve with Southern Buttermilk Biscuits. They pair wonderfully with breakfast items like scrambled eggs, sausage, or gravy. For lunch or dinner, consider serving them alongside a hearty soup or chili. They also make a great base for a breakfast sandwich filled with eggs and cheese. Don’t forget to offer a selection of jams, honey, or flavored butters for a sweet twist. The versatility of these biscuits is what makes them a favorite for any meal!

To store leftover Southern Buttermilk Biscuits, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you need to keep them longer, I recommend freezing them. Wrap each biscuit tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in the oven until warmed through. This will help retain their texture and flavor!

Conclusion

In summary, Southern Buttermilk Biscuits embody the essence of comfort food. Their light, flaky texture and buttery flavor make them a must-have in any kitchen. I encourage you to try making this simple yet satisfying recipe. There’s something truly special about creating something from scratch and sharing it with loved ones. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the delightful process of baking these biscuits! You won’t regret it.