Southern Biscuits – Butter Biscuits
Whenever we visited my grandmother’s home, an irresistible aroma would greet us at the door—her signature butter biscuits, fresh from the oven. Crafted with care and a sprinkle of nostalgia, these golden, flaky treasures were born from her modest pantry and trusty cast-iron skillet. Whether slathered with sweet preserves at dawn or paired with a robust meal at dusk, these biscuits encapsulate a timeless comfort. Here’s how to recreate their magic:
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Ingredients
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| Item | Measurement |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups, firmly packed (if using self-rising flour, omit both baking powder and salt) |
| Baking powder | 1 tablespoon (skip if opting for self-rising flour) |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon (leave out if using self-rising flour) |
| Salted butter | ½ cup, diced into small cubes (if unsalted butter is used, add an additional ¼ teaspoon salt) |
| Milk | 1 cup, your choice of regular or buttermilk |
Method
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- Prepare the Oven:
Begin by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C), allowing it to preheat thoroughly. - Blend the Dry Components:
In a generously sized mixing vessel, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly distributed. - Incorporate the Butter:
Introduce the butter cubes to the dry mixture. With your fingers or a pastry cutter, gently work the butter until the texture resembles coarse crumbs, with pieces no larger than peas. - Add the Milk:
Gradually pour the milk into the bowl, stirring with a wooden spoon until the dough just holds together. Avoid overmixing to preserve a light, airy texture; the dough should retain a slight stickiness. - Shape the Dough:
Transfer the dough onto a floured work surface. Pat or roll it to an even thickness of approximately ¾ inch. - Cut Out the Biscuits:
Using a biscuit cutter or a similar tool, press straight down to form each biscuit. Resist twisting the cutter, as this can hinder the biscuits’ rise. Arrange them closely on an ungreased baking tray or in an iron skillet, allowing their edges to touch for optimal lift. - Bake to Perfection:
Place the tray or skillet in the preheated oven and bake for around 10 minutes, or until the tops of the biscuits turn a luscious golden hue. - Serve While Warm:
Enjoy these biscuits fresh from the oven, adorned with butter, honey, or jam. They’re also delightful companions to hearty gravies, stews, or soups, soaking up every delicious drop.
This recipe preserves the essence of a cherished family tradition while inviting you to make it your own. So, dust off your skillet, gather the simplest of ingredients, and let the spirit of homemade warmth fill your kitchen.
