Description
Angel Biscuits are tender, flaky layered biscuits made with a combination of butter and shortening for a perfect texture. These light and fluffy biscuits are quick to prepare with yeast and baking powder, making them irresistibly soft with a golden crust. Ideal for breakfast or as a side for any meal, they deliver a delightful homemade touch.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) rapid-rise yeast
Wet Ingredients & Fats
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
- ¼ cup shortening
- 1 cup buttermilk (or substitute with 1 cup milk + 1 tablespoon vinegar)
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, kosher salt, and rapid-rise yeast until fully combined.
- Cut in Butter and Shortening: Add the cold cubed unsalted butter and shortening to the dry mixture. Using a pastry cutter or a fork, cut them into the flour mixture until the texture resembles pea-sized crumbs, ensuring even distribution for flaky layers.
- Add Buttermilk: Pour in the buttermilk and gently stir the mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the dough to maintain tenderness in the biscuits.
- Form Layers: On a floured surface, gently pat the dough into a square about 1 inch thick. Fold the dough over itself 2 to 3 times, patting it down between folds to create distinct layers that will give the biscuits their signature flaky texture.
- Cut Biscuits: Using a biscuit cutter, cut the dough into rounds. You should be able to cut about 12 biscuits from the dough. Place them evenly spaced on a baking sheet.
- Rest the Dough: Cover the biscuits with a clean towel and let them rest for 30 to 60 minutes to allow slight rising and relaxation of the dough.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the biscuits for 15 to 20 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Remove the biscuits from the oven and immediately brush with melted butter to add richness and shine. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a buttermilk substitute, combine 1 tablespoon of vinegar with 1 cup of milk and let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
- Do not overmix the dough as it will make the biscuits tough rather than tender and flaky.
- Folding the dough several times creates layers that help achieve a fluffy texture.
- Brush the baked biscuits with melted butter for a glossy finish and extra flavor.
- Serve warm for the best taste and texture; leftovers can be warmed in the oven.