Making biscuits from scratch is a straightforward and rewarding process. Here's a classic recipe to guide you through the steps:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
- 3/4 cup cold buttermilk (or regular milk with 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice added)
- Optional: 2 tablespoons sugar (for sweet biscuits)
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar (if using) until well combined.
Add the cold butter cubes to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry blender, two forks, or your fingers, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. It's okay to have some small chunks of butter remaining; they will help create flaky biscuits.
Make a well in the center of the mixture and pour in the cold buttermilk. Gently stir the ingredients until the dough comes together. Avoid overmixing, as it can make the biscuits tough.
Flour a clean surface and turn the dough out onto it. Knead the dough gently a few times until it becomes smooth, but don't overwork it.
Roll out the dough to about 1/2 to 3/4-inch (1.3 to 1.9 cm) thickness. You can use a rolling pin or gently pat it down with your hands.
Using a biscuit cutter or a drinking glass, cut out rounds from the dough. Press straight down and avoid twisting the cutter to help the biscuits rise properly.
Place the biscuits on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between them.
Optional: If you prefer softer sides on your biscuits, arrange them touching each other on the baking sheet.
Gather any remaining dough scraps, gently knead them together, and cut out more biscuits.
Bake the biscuits in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes or until they turn golden brown on top.
Once baked, remove the biscuits from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving.
Enjoy your homemade biscuits! They're delicious on their own, with butter and jam, or as a side to savory dishes like fried chicken or sausage gravy.