Imagine pulling apart a warm, golden biscuit with steam rising and butter melting into every delectable crevice. Chef John's Buttermilk Biscuits are not just a recipe—they're a culinary experience that transforms ordinary mornings into extraordinary moments. With just a few simple ingredients and some expert techniques, you'll create bakery-quality biscuits that will have your family and friends begging for more.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 biscuits
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
Instructions
- Prepare your workspace by preheating the oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Ensure the dry ingredients are well combined and free of lumps.
- Remove the cold unsalted butter from the refrigerator. Using a box grater or a sharp knife, cut the butter into very small, pea-sized pieces directly into the dry ingredient mixture.
- Using your fingertips, quickly work the cold butter into the flour mixture. The goal is to create a coarse, crumbly texture where the butter is evenly distributed but not fully incorporated.
- Make a well in the center of the flour-butter mixture and pour in the cold buttermilk. Use a fork or wooden spoon to gently mix the ingredients until just combined. The dough will look shaggy and slightly wet.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead the dough 3-4 times, being careful not to overwork it. Overworking can lead to tough biscuits.
- Pat the dough into a rectangle about 3/4 inch thick. Use a 2-inch round biscuit cutter, pressing straight down without twisting to cut out biscuits.
- Place the cut biscuits onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are touching each other slightly. This helps them rise higher and stay moist.
- Optional: Brush the tops of the biscuits with additional buttermilk or melted butter for a golden, shiny finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the edges are crisp.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack or serve immediately while warm.
- Serve with butter, jam, honey, or as a side to your favorite breakfast or dinner dish.
Tips
- Keep your butter extremely cold - this is crucial for creating those flaky, tender layers
- Handle the dough as little as possible to prevent tough biscuits
- Use a sharp biscuit cutter and press straight down without twisting to ensure even rising
- Place biscuits close together on the baking sheet so they support each other while baking
- For extra richness, brush the tops with buttermilk or melted butter before baking
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor - these biscuits are best enjoyed warm
- If you don't have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar to regular milk
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 150kcal
Carbohydrates: 19g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 20mg
