Learn the secrets to baking the perfect Flaky Biscuits with this detailed recipe. These biscuits are light, buttery, and irresistibly flaky, making them a delightful addition to any meal or as a snack on their own. Follow along to master this classic baking technique!
Ingredients for Flaky Biscuits
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 3/4 cup buttermilk, cold (plus more for brushing)
- 1 tbsp honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
How to Make Flaky Biscuits
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- Incorporate Butter:
- Add the cold butter cubes to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to quickly work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some larger pea-sized pieces of butter.
- Add Wet Ingredients:
- Make a well in the center of the flour mixture. Pour in the cold buttermilk (and honey, if using). Stir gently with a fork or wooden spoon until the dough just comes together. It should be shaggy and moist, but not overly wet.
- Shape and Cut:
- Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Gently pat the dough into a rectangle about 1-inch thick.
- Fold and Repeat:
- Fold the dough in half and gently press down. Repeat this folding process 4-5 times. This helps create layers in the biscuits.
- Cut Out Biscuits:
- Using a floured biscuit cutter or a sharp knife, cut out biscuits from the dough. Avoid twisting the cutter; simply press down and lift straight up. Place the biscuits on the prepared baking sheet, with sides touching for softer edges.
- Bake:
- Brush the tops of the biscuits lightly with buttermilk for a golden finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the biscuits are risen and golden brown on top.
- Serve Warm:
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve warm with butter, jam, or as desired.
About the Main Ingredients
- All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure and texture to the biscuits.
- Butter: Creates flakiness by melting during baking, leaving air pockets between layers.
- Buttermilk: Adds tenderness and tanginess to the biscuits, essential for their flavor and texture.
- Baking Powder and Baking Soda: Leavening agents that help the biscuits rise and become light and airy.
Mastering the art of making Flaky Biscuits will elevate your baking skills and impress your family and friends. Enjoy these biscuits fresh out of the oven for a comforting and delicious treat any time of day!
