Description
Angel biscuits, also known as “heavenly light angel biscuits,” are a classic Southern delicacy cherished for their fluffy texture and buttery flavor. This recipe yields tender biscuits with a golden-brown crust, perfect for serving alongside breakfast or as a comforting accompaniment to any meal. With a hint of sweetness and a touch of tang from the buttermilk, these biscuits are sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
Scale
5 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
3 teaspoons baking powder
2 teaspoons salt
1 package (1/4 ounce) active dry yeast
1/4 cup warm water (110 to 115 degrees F)
1 cup shortening
2 cups buttermilk
Melted butter for brushing
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Dissolve the yeast in warm water in a small bowl and let sit until foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Cut the shortening into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or fingers until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir the yeast mixture and buttermilk into the flour mixture until well combined and sticky.
- Turn dough out onto a well-floured surface and knead gently for a minute or two.
- Roll dough to about 1/2-inch thickness and cut with a biscuit cutter. Place on a greased baking sheet, cover with a cloth, and let rise in a warm place for 30 minutes or until nearly doubled.
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
- Bake risen biscuits for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown on top.
- Brush with melted butter and serve warm.
Notes
- Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are fresh and of high quality for best results. Use buttermilk for its acidity and flavor-enhancing properties, and make sure the yeast is active by proofing it in warm water until foamy.
- Mixing the Dough: Be careful not to overwork the dough when mixing. Gently incorporate the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined to prevent toughness in the final biscuits.
- Rising Time: Allow the biscuits to rise in a warm, draft-free environment until nearly doubled in size. This step is crucial for achieving the light and airy texture characteristic of angel biscuits.
- Baking Temperature and Time: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F and bake the risen biscuits until they are golden brown on top. Brushing with melted butter after baking adds flavor and helps soften the crust.
- Customizations: Experiment with different variations, such as adding herbs or cheese to the dough for savory biscuits, or incorporating cinnamon and sugar for a sweet twist.
- Storage and Reheating: Store leftover biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days, or freeze for longer storage. Reheat thawed or leftover biscuits in the oven or microwave until warmed through before serving.