There’s a comforting allure of Southern-style buttermilk biscuits that can instantly transport you to a sunlit kitchen, where the scent of freshly baked bread dances through the air. I remember the first time I pulled a batch from the oven, their golden tops glistening with a touch of buttermilk—truly a sight to behold! With just seven simple ingredients and the promise of warm, flaky layers, these biscuits are a delightful addition to any breakfast or brunch table.
On a particularly busy morning, I found myself craving something homemade, yet effortlessly satisfying. That’s when I decided to whip up these biscuits, ready in just 35 minutes! Whether you enjoy them on their own, drizzled with honey, or topped with savory goodness like cheese or bacon, these biscuits are versatile enough to suit every palate. Join me in elevating your mornings with a taste of Southern comfort that’s easy to prepare and impossible to resist!
Why are Southern-Style Buttermilk Biscuits a Must-Try?
Comforting, Flaky Layers: Each biscuit is a warm, buttery delight, promising crispy exteriors and soft, flaky insides.
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 35 minutes, even beginner bakers can achieve these bakery-style beauties.
Endless Versatility: From a classic breakfast favorite to a savory sandwich base, these biscuits adapt to your cravings.
7 Simple Ingredients: With only a handful of staples, you’ll find joy in baking without the fuss.
Don’t forget to pair these flaky wonders with your favorite breakfast proteins to take your meal to the next level!
Southern-Style Buttermilk Biscuits Ingredients
For the Biscuits
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; ensure flour is spooned and leveled for accuracy.
- Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent; freshness is key for maximum lift.
- Baking Soda – Reacts with buttermilk for rise and browning.
- Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor, making each bite delightful.
- Cold Butter – Contributes richness and flakiness; keep butter cold for taller biscuits.
- Cold Buttermilk – Adds moisture and a tangy flavor; can substitute with regular milk, adding lemon juice or vinegar.
- Honey – Provides a hint of sweetness, perfect for balancing the biscuit’s savory elements.
Ready your kitchen and enjoy the delightful process of making Southern-Style Buttermilk Biscuits that will have your loved ones coming back for seconds!
How to Make Southern-Style Buttermilk Biscuits
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps the biscuits bake evenly, achieving that perfect golden brown finish.
- Combine the dry ingredients in a bowl or food processor: pour in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and kosher salt. Mix well to ensure that the leavening agents are evenly distributed for a light, fluffy texture.
- Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is essential for achieving those flaky layers, so don’t rush!
- Create a well in the dry mixture, pour in the cold buttermilk, and drizzle in the honey. Gently fold everything together until just combined, being careful not to overmix; you want tender biscuits, after all!
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface, gently bringing it together. Flatten it to about ¾” thickness, then fold the dough over itself multiple times to create those delightful layers we all love.
- Cut the biscuits using a biscuit cutter, pressing straight down without twisting for optimal rise. Arrange them closely on the prepared baking sheet and brush the tops with a little extra buttermilk to enhance browning.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes until the tops are golden brown and irresistible. You’ll know they’re perfect when your kitchen fills with the warm scent of baked goodness!
Optional: Serve warm with a drizzle of honey or a slather of butter for added indulgence.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Southern-Style Buttermilk Biscuits
- Keep It Cold: Ensure all ingredients are cold, especially butter and buttermilk, to achieve maximum flakiness in your biscuits.
- Don’t Overmix: Gently combine until just mixed to maintain tenderness. Overmixing can lead to tough biscuits, a common mistake to avoid.
- Press, Don’t Twist: When cutting the biscuits, press the cutter straight down without twisting. Twisting can seal the edges, preventing them from rising properly.
- Layer Magic: For flaky layers, fold the dough several times before cutting. This technique creates those beautiful pockets of air that we adore in Southern-style biscuits.
- Freeze for Later: To save time, freeze unbaked biscuits on a tray until solid, then transfer them to a bag. They can be baked straight from the freezer, keeping the Southern-style biscuit experience ready any time!
How to Store and Freeze Southern-Style Buttermilk Biscuits
- Room Temperature: Enjoy freshly baked biscuits within 2 hours for optimal taste and texture. For longer enjoyment, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Fridge: Refrigerate any leftover biscuits in a covered container for up to 1-2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their freshness.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unbaked biscuits by arranging them on a tray and freezing solid. Once frozen, transfer to a resealable bag for up to 1 month. Bake from frozen at 425°F (218°C) for an additional 2-5 minutes.
- Reheating: When reheating baked biscuits, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, covering with foil if they brown too quickly. Enjoy them warm with your favorite spreads!
Southern-Style Buttermilk Biscuits Variations
Whether you want to shake things up or cater to specific tastes, customizing your biscuits invites a world of delightful possibilities!
- Sweet Drizzle: Drizzle fresh biscuits with melted butter and honey for a sweet, irresistible touch.
- Cheesy Delight: Fold in shredded cheddar cheese for a savory biscuit with a gooey twist. Mmm, cheese and buttermilk are a match made in heaven!
- Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to create fragrant, herbaceous biscuits perfect for dinner. Your guests will adore the aromatic flavor!
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for a deliciously spicy version. Perfect for those who crave a little heat!
- Bacon Bliss: Stir in cooked, crumbled bacon for a rich, savory explosion of flavor in every bite. Who doesn’t love bacon?
- Citrus Zing: Incorporate lemon or orange zest into the dough for a refreshing twist that brightens the flavors. It’s like sunshine in your biscuits!
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for a delightful texture and earthy flavor. Each bite becomes an adventure!
- Berrylicious Treats: Serve warm biscuits with fresh berries and whipped cream for a delectable dessert option. They turn into sweet clouds of happiness!
What to Serve with Southern-Style Buttermilk Biscuits?
Elevate your breakfast or brunch table with delightful pairings that enhance the comforting goodness of these homemade biscuits.
- Savory Sausage Gravy: Rich, creamy sausage gravy adds a hearty touch, creating an iconic Southern breakfast classic when ladled over freshly baked biscuits.
- Crispy Bacon Strips: The salty crunch of bacon pairs beautifully with the soft, flaky biscuits, making every bite a savory sensation that satisfies.
- Fruit Jam or Preserves: A sweet dollop of homemade or store-bought jam brings brightness and fruity flavor, contrasting perfectly with the buttery biscuits.
- Honey Butter: Spread a generous layer of honey butter on a warm biscuit for a sweet and creamy indulgence that will leave you craving more.
- Cheddar Cheese: Adding sharp cheddar within the dough or melted on top enhances flavor and complements the biscuit’s flakiness—an absolute must-try!
- Fresh Berries: A side of fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries adds a refreshing touch, balancing the rich flavors and making the plate more visually appealing.
- Oven-Baked Eggs: Serve alongside fluffy baked eggs or a frittata for a complete breakfast spread that feels like a cozy Southern gathering.
- Iced Tea or Coffee: Pair your biscuits with a cool glass of sweet iced tea or a warm cup of coffee to round out the comforting experience.
- Egg Salad: For a twist, serve these biscuits with a creamy egg salad; the softness of the biscuit beautifully cradles the savory filling.
Indulge in the ultimate Southern breakfast by pairing your Southern-Style Buttermilk Biscuits with these delicious offerings!
Make Ahead Options
Southern-Style Buttermilk Biscuits are perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings! You can prepare the biscuit dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to the point of cutting out the biscuits, then wrap the prepared dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, you can either cut them out right from the fridge or allow them to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to make handling easier. For longer storage, you can freeze unbaked biscuits for up to 1 month; just freeze them solid on a tray, then transfer to a zip-top bag. When it’s time to enjoy, bake them straight from the freezer—just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time for fluffy, fresh results that are just as delicious as when made on the spot!
Southern-Style Buttermilk Biscuits Recipe FAQs
What’s the best way to select ripe buttermilk?
Absolutely! You want to make sure your buttermilk is fresh. Check the expiration date on the carton and give it a little sniff; it should have a pleasant tangy aroma. Avoid any containers that show signs of bulging or leakage.
How should I store leftover biscuits?
To keep your Southern-Style Buttermilk Biscuits fresh, store them in a covered container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you’d like to keep them longer, refrigerate them in an airtight container but consume within 1-2 days for the best taste.
Can I freeze unbaked biscuits? If so, how?
Very! To freeze unbaked biscuits, arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they’re not touching. Freeze them until solid—about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a resealable freezer bag and store for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake from frozen at 425°F (218°C) for an extra 2-5 minutes.
What can I do if my biscuits don’t rise properly?
If your biscuits don’t rise, it could be due to a few factors. Make sure your baking powder is fresh; if it’s expired, it won’t provide the lift you need! Also, remember to press the biscuit cutter straight down without twisting, as twisting seals the edges and prevents rising. Lastly, make sure your butter and buttermilk are cold, as warm ingredients can lead to flat biscuits.
Are these biscuits suitable for people with gluten allergies?
While these Southern-Style Buttermilk Biscuits are made with all-purpose flour, you can easily adapt the recipe for gluten-free needs by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just make sure it includes a binding agent, like xanthan gum, to help achieve that desired texture.
Can I make these biscuits ahead of time?
Of course! For breakfast convenience, you can prepare the biscuit dough a few hours ahead of time, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to bake them while they’re still chilled for maximum flakiness!
Perfectly Flaky Southern-Style Buttermilk Biscuits Made Easy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Combine the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, and kosher salt, mixing well.
- Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Create a well in the mixture, pour in the buttermilk, and drizzle in the honey. Gently fold to combine.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface, flatten to ¾" thickness, and fold several times.
- Cut the biscuits with a cutter, pressing straight down. Arrange closely on the baking sheet and brush tops with buttermilk.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes until golden brown.
