Raised by my mom’s tradition, my Homemade Biscuits Recipe uses simple ingredients such as all-purpose flour, baking powder, a pinch of salt, cold unsalted butter cubes, and chilled buttermilk. I relish how these hearty biscuits pair with a dollop of extra butter, tangy jam, or sweet honey, making them delightful.

Jump to Recipe

I first learned to make these biscuits from my mom and they have been a favorite in our house ever since. I love experimenting with a few different recipes, like those by Ina Garten or Pioneer Woman, but nothing compares to the simplicity of this Southern style biscuit recipe.

It’s a straightforward mix of all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt with cold unsalted butter and buttermilk creating a delicious, light dough. Sometimes I mess it up a bit, but even when it doesn’t come out perfect, it still tastes amazing!

There’s something truly satisfying about mixing those few ingredients together and watching them transform into a savory treat that can be enjoyed with a dab of extra butter, a smear of jam, or even a spoonful of gravy. Give it a try- you might find that making biscuits this way is one of those easy yet remarkable kitchen experiments that everyone can feel proud of.

Why I Like this Recipe

I like this recipe because it takes me back to my childhood—my mom used to make these biscuits and every bite brings back memories of family gatherings. I also like that it’s super simple and quick to make, which is perfect when im in a hurry but still want something homemade and comforting. And honestly, these biscuits are so versatile, I can eat em plain or load them up with butter, jam, honey, or even gravy, which makes them a total win in my book.

Ingredients

Print Recipe (No Advertisments)

Provides carbohydrates and structure to form the biscuit body.
Its fine texture creates tender, flaky layers in each bite.
Works as a leavening agent for light, airy biscuits.
Ensures even rising and soft overall texture during baking.
Enhances flavor, balancing the rich butter and tangy buttermilk.
Essential for a well-rounded, delicious taste profile.
Adds richness and moist tenderness to each crisp biscuit layer.
Cold cubes help create flaky texture by releasing steam.
Imparts a slight tang and moisture that brightens the flavor.
Its acidity reacts with baking powder for extra lift.
Combining these ingredients creates classic Southern biscuits that are comforting, timeless, and irresistible.

Ingredient Quantities

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup cold unsalted butter (cut into small cubes)

3/4 cup cold buttermilk

How to Make this

Print Recipe (No Advertisments)

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F and lightly flour your work surface.

2. In a large bowl, mix together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.

3. Add the 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter (cubed) into the flour mix. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until it forms a crumbly texture.

4. Pour in 3/4 cup cold buttermilk and stir gently until the dough comes together, try not to overmix it.

5. Transfer the dough to your floured surface and lightly knead it for about 30 seconds, just enough to bring it together.

6. Roll out the dough about 1/2 inch thick, then use a round cutter or a glass to cut out biscuits.

7. Place the biscuits on an ungreased baking sheet making sure the sides are touching for soft edges.

8. If you want, you can brush the tops with a bit more buttermilk or melted butter for extra flavor.

9. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until they are golden brown.

10. Remove from the oven, let cool a bit and serve warm with extra butter, jam, or your favorite topping. Enjoy!

Equipment Needed

1. An oven (set it to 425°F)
2. A work surface to roll dough on (lightly dusted with flour)
3. A large mixing bowl
4. Measuring cups and spoons
5. A pastry cutter or similar tool to cut the butter into the flour
6. A rolling pin to roll the dough
7. A round cutter or a glass for cutting biscuits
8. A baking sheet
9. A brush if you want to apply extra buttermilk or melted butter on top

FAQ

Q: Can I use whole milk if I dont have buttermilk?

Yes, you can mix 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar into a cup of whole milk and let it sit for 5 minutes. It works pretty well.

Q: Why is it so important to use cold butter and buttermilk?

Using cold ingredients helps create a flaky texture in your biscuits. If the butter melts into the dough, you'll get a denser biscuit.

Q: How do i know when my biscuits are done?

Look for a light golden color on the tops and edges. They might seem a bit soft, but they'll firm up as they cool.

Q: Can these biscuits be frozen?

Yep, you can freeze them. Allow 'em to cool completely then wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap and stick them in an airtight container.

Q: Might i add extra flavors to these biscuits?

For sure! You can stir in herbs like rosemary or thyme or even a bit of grated cheese for a fun twist.

Easy Homemade Biscuits Recipe (Southern Style) Substitutions and Variations

All-purpose flour: You can mix half whole wheat and half cake flour for a healthier twist, though the texture may be slightly different
Baking powder: If you dont have baking powder, try using 1/4 teaspoon baking soda mixed with 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar, that works pretty well
Salt: Sea salt or kosher salt can work as alternatives, just be sure to adjust the amount since they can be a bit stronger
Unsalted butter: You could use shortening instead of butter, or even salted butter if you reduce the extra salt in the recipe
Buttermilk: Plain yogurt thinned with a little milk makes a good substitute if you dont have buttermilk on hand

Pro Tips

1. Make sure your butter and buttermilk are super cold before mixing them in. Cold ingredients help keep the dough flaky and that’s the secret to really light biscuits.
2. Try not to overwork your dough. It can be tempting to knead it a bit too long, but a quick, gentle mix is all you need to keep it tender.
3. When you’re cutting out your biscuits, arrange them so the sides touch each other on the pan. This trick gives you those soft edges everyone loves.
4. If you feel adventurous, brush a tiny bit of extra butter or buttermilk on top right before baking. It adds a little extra flavor and a beautiful golden finish.