Homemade Biscuits Recipe
Introduction
Biscuits are a classic baked good that has been cherished for centuries. Originating in Europe, these soft, flaky delights were once known as “twice-baked bread.†They have evolved into a staple in Southern American cuisine, enjoyed during breakfast, as a side dish, or even for dessert. This recipe creates buttery, golden-brown biscuits with a tender, flaky texture.
Ingredients
For the biscuits:
• 2 ½ cups (310g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp sugar (optional)
• ½ cup (120g) cold unsalted butter, cubed
• ¾ cup (180ml) cold buttermilk (plus extra for brushing)
Optional toppings:
• Melted butter for brushing
• Honey or jam for serving
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. Cut in the Butter:
Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to incorporate the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Add the Buttermilk:
Pour the cold buttermilk into the mixture and gently stir until a dough forms. Avoid overmixing to ensure tender biscuits.
5. Shape the Dough:
Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Lightly knead it 3-4 times, then pat it into a 1-inch thick rectangle. Fold it over itself three times to create layers, which will result in flakier biscuits. Roll it out again to 1-inch thickness.
6. Cut the Biscuits:
Use a biscuit cutter or a sharp knife to cut the dough into squares or rounds. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they touch slightly (this helps them rise).
7. Bake:
Brush the tops with buttermilk and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Finish:
Remove the biscuits from the oven and brush them with melted butter. Serve warm with honey, jam, or gravy.
History
Biscuits date back to ancient Rome, where “bis coctus†referred to twice-baked bread. Over time, they became a portable food for travelers and sailors. By the 19th century, biscuits as we know them became a household staple in the United States, with variations like buttermilk biscuits emerging in Southern kitchens.
Benefits of Biscuits
1. Quick and Easy: Perfect for a homemade treat without spending hours in the kitchen.
2. Versatile: Can be paired with savory or sweet toppings.
3. Comfort Food: Provides warmth and nostalgia with every bite.
Nutritional Information (Per Biscuit)
• Calories: 190
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g
Conclusion
Homemade biscuits are more than just a dish—they’re a connection to history and a source of comfort. They can bring families together around the table and elevate any meal.
Who Loves Biscuits?
Biscuits are loved by all age groups. Kids enjoy them with sweet toppings, while adults savor them with butter or gravy. In many cultures, biscuits symbolize hospitality and warmth, making them a universal favorite.
Enjoy baking these classic biscuits, and share them with your loved ones!