Paula Deen’s Classic Buttermilk Biscuits

Paula Deen’s Classic Buttermilk Biscuits are a staple of Southern cuisine, offering a tender, flaky texture and rich buttery flavor. Perfect for breakfast or as a side to any meal, these biscuits embody traditional Southern comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Southern Flavor: Crafted by Paula Deen, this recipe delivers genuine Southern taste.​
• Simple Ingredients: Utilizes common pantry staples for convenience.​
• Versatile Use: Ideal for breakfast sandwiches, alongside soups, or with gravy.​
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Biscuits can be prepared and frozen for later use.​

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Self-rising flour​
• Sugar​
• Kosher salt​
• Unsalted butter​
• Whole buttermilk​Paula Deen+1Paula Deen+1
• Melted unsalted butter (for brushing)​
• Additional butter for serving​

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Set to 425°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.​Paula Deen+1Paula Deen+1
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together self-rising flour, sugar, and kosher salt.​Paula Deen
3. Incorporate Butter: Cut cold, cubed unsalted butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.​
4. Add Buttermilk: Gradually stir in cold whole buttermilk until the dough just comes together.​Paula Deen
5. Knead Dough: Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface; gently knead 3-4 times.​Paula Deen
6. Shape and Cut: Pat dough to a 1-inch thickness. Using a floured 2½-inch round cutter, cut out biscuits without twisting the cutter. Re-roll scraps as needed.​Paula Deen
7. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place biscuits on the prepared sheet, ensuring sides are touching for better rise.​Paula Deen
8. Bake: Brush tops with melted butter and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.​
9. Serve: Let cool for 5 minutes; serve warm with additional butter.​Paula Deen

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes approximately 12 biscuits.​
• Prep Time: 20 minutes​Paula Deen+5Paula Deen+5Paula Deen+5
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes​Paula Deen+2Paula Deen+2Paula Deen+2

Variations

• Cheese Biscuits: Mix shredded cheddar into the dough for a cheesy twist.​Paula Deen
• Herb Infused: Add chopped fresh herbs like chives or parsley for added flavor.​Paula Deen
• Whole Wheat: Substitute half of the self-rising flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier biscuit.​

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.​
• Freezing: Freeze unbaked biscuits on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding 5-10 minutes to the baking time.​
• Reheating: Warm baked biscuits in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes or microwave for 20-30 seconds.​

FAQs

What is self-rising flour?

Self-rising flour is a blend of all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt, commonly used in Southern baking.​Paula Deen

Can I make these biscuits without buttermilk?

While buttermilk adds a distinct flavor and tenderness, you can substitute with a mixture of milk and lemon juice or vinegar (1 cup milk + 1 tablespoon lemon juice/vinegar).​

Why should biscuit sides touch during baking?

Placing biscuits close together helps them rise higher and stay tender by supporting each other during baking.​Paula Deen

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but reduce the added kosher salt to balance the overall saltiness.​Paula Deen+9Paula Deen+9Paula Deen+9

How do I ensure flaky biscuits?

Use cold butter and handle the dough minimally to keep the butter from melting before baking.​Paula Deen

Can I prepare the dough in advance?

Yes, prepare the dough, cut the biscuits, and refrigerate them on the baking sheet for up to a day before baking.​

What if I don’t have a round cutter?

Use a knife to cut the dough into squares or rectangles; this also minimizes re-rolling scraps.​

How thick should I roll the dough?

Aim for a 1-inch thickness to achieve tall, fluffy biscuits.​Paula Deen

Can I add sugar for sweeter biscuits?

The recipe includes a small amount of sugar, but you can increase it slightly for a sweeter biscuit.​

Are these biscuits suitable for freezing after baking?

Yes, cool them completely, wrap tightly, and freeze. Reheat in the oven before serving.​

Conclusion

Paula Deen’s Classic Buttermilk Biscuits are a timeless recipe that brings the heart of Southern baking to your kitchen. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven with a pat of butter or as part of a hearty meal, these biscuits are sure to become a favorite in your household.

Print