Golden Buttermilk Biscuits: Flaky Homemade Southern-Style Recipe

Chef John’s Buttermilk Biscuits: Flaky Homemade Biscuits

These homemade biscuits are buttery and tender, offering a fluffy interior and golden, flaky layers that will have you coming back for more biscuits.

Ingredients for Flaky Buttermilk Biscuits

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 3/4 cup cold buttermilk

Instructions to Bake Perfect Biscuits

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
3. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Make a well in the center and pour in the cold buttermilk; stir just until the dough comes together.
5. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and fold it over itself 3–4 times to create flaky layers.
6. Roll out the dough to a 1-inch thickness and cut with a 2.5-inch biscuit cutter.
7. Place biscuits close together on the prepared sheet for soft edges.
8. Bake for 12–15 minutes until the tops are golden brown.

Tips & Tricks for Maximum Flakiness

• Keep it cold: Chill your butter and buttermilk before starting.
• Don’t overmix: Gently combine to avoid tough biscuits.
• Fold for layers: Each fold creates the signature flakiness.

Nutrition Information

Per serving (1 biscuit):

• Calories: 143 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 17 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Fat: 7 g (Saturated fat 4 g, Unsaturated fat 0 g)
• Cholesterol: 19 mg
• Sodium: 321 mg
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 1 g

Frequently Asked Questions About Biscuits

What makes biscuits fluffy?

Folding the dough and keeping butter cold ensures distinct layers that puff during baking.

Can I freeze biscuit dough?

Yes! Freeze cut biscuits on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen—just add a couple extra minutes.

Serve and Enjoy Your Buttermilk Biscuits

These golden, buttery biscuits pair perfectly with jam, honey, or savory gravy. Serve warm and watch them disappear—biscuits perfection!

Recipe credit: Allrecipes