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DIY butterfly suncatcher made with colorful materials for window decoration

A Taste of Grandma’s Kitchen: Southern Buttermilk Biscuits

Growing up in the heart of South Carolina, my childhood was flavored with a medley of nurturing meals and warm family gatherings. Every Sunday morning, the smell of freshly baked biscuits wafted through my grandmother’s kitchen, mingling with the sweet aroma of brewed coffee. Those fluffy, golden biscuits, with their flaky layers and slightly tangy buttermilk, held a magic that transformed a simple breakfast into a cherished tradition. Today, I want to share with you her classic Southern Buttermilk Biscuit recipe, perfect for the crisp fall mornings when the leaves turn and the air is filled with a hint of pumpkin spice.

These biscuits are not just a side dish; they are a warm hug on a plate, a reminder of home. Whether slathered with butter, served alongside fried chicken, or enjoyed with homemade jam, their versatility makes them a beloved staple. Grab your apron, because these delicious bites are sure to bring a bit of Southern charm to your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • Flaky and Tender: Perfectly light and airy texture.
  • Made with Buttermilk: Adds a delightful tanginess.
  • One-Bowl Wonder: Easy cleanup with minimal dishes.
  • Comfort Food: A nostalgic recipe everyone will adore.
  • Versatile: Great for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 3/4 cup buttermilk (plus extra for brushing)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

  1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). This high temperature helps create perfectly crispy edges.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.

Cut in the Butter

  1. Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, with some pea-sized pieces of butter remaining.

Add the Buttermilk

  1. Pour in the buttermilk and gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few flour streaks are okay.

Shape the Biscuits

  1. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently 2-3 times to bring it together. Pat it into a rectangle about 1-inch thick.
  2. Use a floured biscuit cutter to cut out biscuits and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake

  1. Brush the tops with a little extra buttermilk for a golden finish.
  2. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and flaky.

Tips & Variations

  • Add Cheddar: For a cheesy twist, incorporate 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese into the dough.
  • Herbs: Mix in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for added flavor.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

Storage Instructions

  • Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
  • Freeze: Freeze unbaked biscuits on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Nutritional Information

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Calories per Serving: Approximately 180 calories
  • Servings: 8 biscuits

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use whole wheat flour?
    Yes! Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier biscuit.

  2. What can I use if I don’t have buttermilk?
    Mix 3/4 cup of milk with 1 tbsp of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for 5 minutes to create a buttermilk substitute.

  3. Why are my biscuits dense?
    Overmixing the dough can cause dense biscuits. Mix until just combined for the best results.

  4. How do I reheat leftover biscuits?
    Pop them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions or Pairings

Serve these biscuits warm with homemade peach preserves or your favorite local honey. They are also delightful alongside fried chicken or a hearty breakfast of scrambled eggs and bacon.

Final Thoughts

These Southern Buttermilk Biscuits not only evoke memories of my childhood but also have the power to create new traditions in your home. I hope you enjoy making them as much as I do! Please share your versions and leave a comment below letting me know how they turned out in your kitchen. Happy baking!

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