Buttermilk Biscuits - Tips for easy, fluffy, flaky biscuits every time

Easy

There are few things in the culinary world as comforting and universally beloved as a batch of warm, golden buttermilk biscuits. Just the thought of that tender, flaky interior and slightly crisp exterior makes me want to stop writing and whip up a batch. 

Tip #1 - The Secret Ingredients (shhh don’t tell anyone)

What makes buttermilk biscuits so special? It's all in the tangy goodness of the buttermilk and self-rising flour! This slightly acidic ingredient reacts with baking soda in the flour to create those wonderful air pockets, resulting in a remarkably light and airy crumb. It also contributes to that signature subtle tang that makes them so incredibly moreish.

Tip #2 - To Knead or Not to Knead Buttermilk Biscuits

If you are aiming for biscuit perfection, the secret is a light touch. Overworking or kneading the dough creates gluten, which is good for bread but not for biscuits. 

So keep your ingredients cold, and gently bring them together.  Using a knife as a way to cut in the flour is a great way to keep your warm hands out of the mix for as long as possible.  The little pockets of butter that you create need to stay solid until they hit the heat of the oven, creating steam that puffs up those beautiful layers. 

Tip #3 - Cut, Don’t Twist 

Oh, and another tip… while it might be tempting to twist your biscuit cutter, a straight, decisive cut is what gives you those perfect, sky-high edges.

Tip #4 - Serve Them with Love

Once those golden beauties emerge from the oven, the possibilities are endless. 

For a classic Southern experience, slather them with butter and your favorite jam or honey – pure bliss! 

They’re also the undisputed champions of breakfast sandwiches, cradling crispy bacon, scrambled eggs, and melty cheese with ease. 

Another breakfast idea, split them open and pour over a generous ladle of creamy sausage gravy for a hearty start to any day. 

And for dinner? 

A warm biscuit is the ideal companion to a bowl of chili, a hearty stew, or even just alongside a simple roasted chicken, perfect for soaking up every last bit of deliciousness. 

For dessert, sprinkle the tops with a bit of sugar and serve with warm cooked berries, or fresh, seasonal strawberries and whipped cream.  Delicious!

Happy Cooking!