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Golden brown flaky buttermilk biscuits stacked high with melting butter on top
american Easy breakfast

Flaky Southern Buttermilk Biscuits

Sky-high, buttery Southern biscuits with dozens of flaky golden layers and tender, melt-in-your-mouth interiors.

Prep
20 min
Cook
15 min
Total
35 min
Servings
8

🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
  3. Grate cold butter on a box grater into dry ingredients. Toss quickly with fingers until coated.
  4. Pour in cold buttermilk. Stir gently with a fork just until dough comes together. Do not overwork.
  5. Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface. Pat into a rectangle, fold in thirds like a business letter, rotate 90 degrees, and repeat 3 times to create flaky layers.
  6. Pat dough to 2.5 cm (1 inch) thickness. Cut biscuits using a floured 6 cm round cutter, pressing straight down without twisting.
  7. Place biscuits touching each other on baking sheet. Brush tops with melted butter.
  8. Bake for 14-16 minutes until tops are deep golden brown. Brush with more melted butter and serve warm.

👨‍🍳 Chef's Essential Tips

  • Never twist the biscuit cutter; twisting pinches the edges and prevents rising
  • Place biscuits touching on the baking sheet to help them rise taller
  • Keep butter and buttermilk ice-cold at all times

⭐ Why This Recipe Works

  • Countless flaky layers you can peel apart
  • Rich golden crust with tender, buttery interior
  • Simple pantry staple ingredients
  • Delicious with honey, jam, or sausage gravy

🔄 Delicious Variations

  • Cheddar Chive: Fold in 100 g sharp cheddar and 2 tbsp minced chives
  • Honey Butter: Brush hot biscuits with honey mixed with melted butter
  • Herb & Garlic: Add garlic powder and fresh thyme

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Why did my biscuits not rise high?
Twisting the cutter or warm butter will impede rise. Keep butter cold and press straight down.
Can I freeze unbaked biscuits?
Yes, freeze cut biscuits on a tray, then store in bags; bake directly from frozen, adding 3-5 minutes.
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