Angel biscuits are a heavenly cross between a flaky biscuit and a soft dinner roll. They’re light, fluffy, and slightly sweet, with a tender crumb that melts in your mouth. What makes them unique is the combination of yeast, baking powder, and baking soda, which gives them their signature rise and texture. These biscuits are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a side dish for dinner. Serve them warm with butter, jam, or honey for an irresistible treat.
Ingredients
For the Biscuits:
2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
1/4 cup (60ml) warm water (110°F or 43°C)
2 1/2 cups (300g) all-purpose flour
1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1 cup (240ml) buttermilk (or substitute with 1 cup milk + 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar)
For Brushing (Optional):
2 tablespoons (30g) melted butter
Equipment
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Pastry cutter or fork
Rolling pin
Biscuit cutter or round glass
Baking sheet
Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Dissolve the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast with 1/4 cup of warm water. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 1/2 cups of flour, 1/4 cup of sugar, 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of salt.
Cut in the Butter: Add 1/2 cup of cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or fork to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add Wet Ingredients: Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the activated yeast mixture and 1 cup of buttermilk. Stir until the dough comes together.
Step 3: Knead and Rest the Dough
Knead Gently: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently for 1-2 minutes until smooth. Be careful not to overwork the dough.
Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 4: Shape the Biscuits
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Roll Out the Dough: Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it out to about 1/2-inch thickness.
Cut the Biscuits: Use a biscuit cutter or round glass to cut out biscuits. Press straight down without twisting to ensure even rising. Gather the scraps, reroll, and cut more biscuits.
Step 5: Bake the Biscuits
Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the biscuits on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between them.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown on top.
Brush with Butter (Optional): Remove the biscuits from the oven and brush the tops with 2 tablespoons of melted butter for extra flavor and shine.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve Warm: Serve the angel biscuits warm with butter, jam, honey, or your favorite spread. They’re also delicious as a side to soups, stews, or fried chicken.
Notes
Buttermilk Substitute: If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. In the morning, let it come to room temperature before rolling and baking.
Freezing: Unbaked biscuits can be frozen for up to 2 months. Arrange them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Flavor Variations:
Add 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder for cheesy garlic biscuits.
Mix in 1/2 cup of dried cranberries and 1 teaspoon of orange zest for a sweet twist.
Storage: Store leftover biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Time and Temperature Breakdown
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Rising Time: 1 hour
Baking Time: 12-15 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 35 minutes
Oven Temperature: 400°F (200°C)
These Homemade Angel Biscuits are a delightful addition to any meal. Their light, fluffy texture and slightly sweet flavor make them a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, they’re sure to disappear quickly. Enjoy
