Name: Flaky Southern Buttermilk Biscuits You'll Want Every Morning
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: ½ cup unsalted cold butter (diced) (Make sure your butter is cold to achieve that perfect flaky texture.); 3 cups all-purpose flour (This serves as the foundation for your biscuits’ light and fluffy consistency.); 5 tsp baking powder (Ensures your biscuits rise beautifully, creating that delightful flakiness.); 1-½ tsp kosher salt (Enhances the flavors in your dough, balancing the richness of the butter.); 1-½ cup buttermilk (The key ingredient that contributes to a moist and tender biscuit.); 1 Tbsp unsalted butter (melted) (This will give your biscuits a lovely golden sheen when baked.)

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There’s nothing quite like the moment when I pull a tray of warm Southern Buttermilk Biscuits from the oven, their golden tops glistening from a brush of melted butter. The rich, buttery aroma fills the kitchen, wrapping around me like a comforting hug. In an era where fast food dominates our meals, these flaky, tender biscuits remind me of the simple joys that homemade cooking can bring.

Whether they’re a special side at dinner, a beloved breakfast with a touch of jam, or the ideal accompaniment to your favorite stew, these biscuits are incredibly versatile. I still discover the delight of experimenting with different add-ins, from cheese to fresh herbs, turning an already fantastic recipe into something uniquely mine.

So, grab your apron and let’s dive into this easy, crowd-pleasing recipe that will transform your kitchen into a warm Southern getaway. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Why are Southern Buttermilk Biscuits a must-try?

Flakiness that melts in your mouth: These Southern treasures boast a tender, flaky texture that you’ll crave.
Simple steps: With just a few easy-to-find ingredients, you can recreate this classic comfort food effortlessly.
Versatile delight: Enjoy them with honey, butter, or your favorite savory dish – the possibilities are endless!
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for brunch or dinner, your family and guests will be begging for seconds.
Kitchen warmth: The aroma of baking biscuits will create a cozy atmosphere in your home, bringing everyone to the table.
For a delightful twist, try adding cheese or fresh herbs as you embrace your creativity in the kitchen!

Southern Buttermilk Biscuits Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up these irresistible Southern Buttermilk Biscuits.

For the Biscuit Dough
• ½ cup unsalted cold butter (diced) – Make sure your butter is cold to achieve that perfect flaky texture.
• 3 cups all-purpose flour – This serves as the foundation for your biscuits’ light and fluffy consistency.
• 5 tsp baking powder – Ensures your biscuits rise beautifully, creating that delightful flakiness.
• 1-½ tsp kosher salt – Enhances the flavors in your dough, balancing the richness of the butter.
• 1-½ cup buttermilk – The key ingredient that contributes to a moist and tender biscuit; you can also use milk with a splash of vinegar as a substitute.

For Brushing
• 1 Tbsp unsalted butter (melted) – This will give your biscuits a lovely golden sheen when baked.

With these simple ingredients, you’re on your way to baking a batch of Southern Buttermilk Biscuits that will make every breakfast or dinner feel like a special occasion!

How to Make Southern Buttermilk Biscuits

Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). This high heat will help your biscuits achieve that perfect golden brown finish.
Combine the flour, baking powder, and kosher salt in a large mixing bowl. Whisk them together until well blended, ensuring even distribution of the dry ingredients.
Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. You want small, pea-sized pieces of butter for that flaky texture!
Stir in the buttermilk gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are totally okay! Your dough will be soft and a bit sticky.
Turn out the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently about 5-6 times until it comes together. You don’t want it too smooth; keep that lovely, homemade feel.
Roll out the dough to about 1-inch thickness and use a biscuit cutter to cut out rounds. Press straight down without twisting for maximum rise!
Place the biscuits on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with melted butter for that irresistible shine.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until beautifully golden brown on top and rising high. Your kitchen will smell deliciously inviting!

Optional: Serve these biscuits warm with a side of honey or homemade jam for an extra treat!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Southern Buttermilk Biscuits

Room Temperature: Store leftover biscuits at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain their softness and freshness.

Fridge: If you need to keep them longer, place the biscuits in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat for a few minutes in the oven for that fresh-baked taste.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap each biscuit individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.

Reheating: To reheat frozen biscuits, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes until warm. Enjoy your Southern Buttermilk Biscuits just like they came out of the oven!

Make Ahead Options

These Southern Buttermilk Biscuits are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the biscuit dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Simply follow the recipe instructions up to the point of cutting out the biscuits, then wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, just take the dough out, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes, and then cut and bake as directed. Alternatively, you can freeze the pre-cut biscuits on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Just pop them into the oven straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time for still delicious results!

Expert Tips for Southern Buttermilk Biscuits

• Use Cold Butter: Ensure your butter is extremely cold for a flaky biscuit. Room temperature butter can lead to dense biscuits.

• Don’t Overmix: Gently stir in the buttermilk until just combined; overmixing can yield tough biscuits. A few lumps are perfectly fine!

• High Oven Temperature: Baking at 450°F (232°C) helps achieve that golden crust and fluffy interior, creating a delightful contrast in your Southern Buttermilk Biscuits.

• Proper Cutting Technique: Use a straight down motion when cutting with your biscuit cutter. Twisting will seal the edges, preventing them from rising beautifully.

• Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to add shredded cheese, herbs, or spices to personalize your Southern Buttermilk Biscuits and elevate their flavor!

What to Serve with Southern Buttermilk Biscuits?

Elevate your meal experience by pairing these warm, flaky biscuits with delightful accompaniments that dance on your taste buds.

Savory Gravy: A rich, creamy sausage or mushroom gravy poured over the biscuits adds a savory touch that truly comforts.
Honey Butter: Spread this sweet, whipped concoction on a warm biscuit for a heavenly bite that contrasts perfectly with the saltiness of the dough.
Fried Chicken: The crispy, juicy chicken juxtaposes the tender biscuit, creating a classic Southern meal that sings with flavor.
Fruit Preserves: Top your biscuit with a dollop of homemade or store-bought preserves for a burst of fruity sweetness that complements its buttery goodness.
Eggs Any Style: Whether scrambled, poached, or fried, eggs make a delightful breakfast companion, delivering protein to fuel your day.
Vegetable Soup: Pairing these biscuits with a warm, hearty vegetable soup transforms a simple meal into a nurturing feast, perfect for chilly evenings.
Fresh Greens Salad: A crisp salad with vinaigrette cuts through the biscuit’s richness, adding a refreshing element that balances the meal beautifully.
Iced Tea or Lemonade: A tall glass of sweet iced tea or refreshing lemonade provides a perfect thirst quencher alongside your biscuits at brunch or dinner.

Southern Buttermilk Biscuits Variations

Feel free to explore delightful twists and make these Southern Buttermilk Biscuits your own!

Cheddar: Add 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese for a savory, cheesy biscuit you’ll adore. The melted cheese creates a delicious gooeyness inside.
Herbs: Mix in 2 tablespoons of fresh chopped herbs like rosemary or chives for a fragrant flavor boost. Each bite will transport you to a lovely garden, full of zest.
Garlic: Incorporate 1-2 minced garlic cloves in the dough for a flavorful kick. This adds a warm, comforting aroma as they bake, perfect for pairing with soups.
Spicy: Stir in 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to spice things up. Your biscuits will pack a punch and awaken your taste buds!
Sweet addition: Fold in ¼ cup of sugar and serve with jam for a sweet treat. This variation can brighten up breakfast with a hint of sweetness that dances on your tongue.
Gluten-Free: Substitute with a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend to make these biscuits accessible to all. Enjoy the same delightful fluffiness without a care.
Bacon: Crumble ½ cup of crispy cooked bacon into the dough for a smoky, savory twist. The flavor brings a hearty, satisfying aspect that everyone will love.
Oregano: Add 1 teaspoon of dried oregano for a Mediterranean flair. This twist evokes comforting vibes and can be a fantastic side to your Italian dishes.

Southern Buttermilk Biscuits Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right buttermilk?
Absolutely! When picking buttermilk, look for one with a slightly thick consistency and a tangy aroma. Fresh buttermilk should be used for the best flavor and texture. If you can’t find it, you can make your own by adding one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to one cup of milk. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly.

How should I store leftover biscuits?
For sure! If you have leftover Southern Buttermilk Biscuits, store them at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. If you wish to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Just remember to reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to revive their warm, buttery goodness.

Can I freeze Southern Buttermilk Biscuits?
Absolutely! To freeze your biscuits, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warm.

What should I do if my biscuit dough is too sticky?
Very! If your dough is too sticky, don’t worry! Lightly flour your hands and the surface while kneading, adding just enough flour to make it manageable. Ensure you don’t add too much flour, as this can make your biscuits dense. And remember to handle the dough gently!

Are there any dietary considerations I should know about?
Indeed! If you’re baking for someone with dietary restrictions, you can easily adjust this recipe. For a dairy-free option, try using plant-based butter and a dairy-free milk alternative with a splash of vinegar. Just be mindful of any specific brand ingredients to ensure they meet the dietary needs of your guests.

Can I use self-rising flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can! If you choose to use self-rising flour, simply omit the baking powder and salt from the recipe; one cup of self-rising flour already includes baking powder and salt. This can save you some time and still produce wonderful biscuits. Just remember, the texture might be slightly different!