A buttermilk biscuit is a small, round bread, prized for its flaky, soft texture and rich, buttery flavor. Traditionally popular in Southern cuisine in the United States, this delightful pastry is made from a simple dough that includes flour, baking powder, salt, butter, and buttermilk. The inclusion of buttermilk not only imparts a subtle tanginess but also reacts with the baking powder to create a light and airy texture when baked.

The dough is mixed just enough to incorporate the ingredients while keeping chunks of butter intact within the mixture. This technique ensures that, during baking, the butter melts and creates steam pockets, which contribute to the biscuit’s distinctive flaky layers. The dough is then gently rolled and folded several times to build up these layers before being cut into rounds with a cutter or the rim of a glass.

Once baked, the biscuits rise into golden-brown rounds with a soft, tender crumb and a slightly crisp exterior. They are best served warm, often split open and slathered with butter, honey, or jam. Buttermilk biscuits can also be a savory treat, complemented with gravy, or used as a base for dishes like biscuits and gravy or a hearty breakfast sandwich. Their versatility and comforting qualities make them a beloved choice for meals at any time of the day.

Image from The Gracious Wife