
These Raised Biscuits are a soft, airy twist on traditional Southern biscuits, blending the best of both biscuit and bread-making techniques. Incorporating yeast along with standard leaveners like baking soda and powder, the recipe creates a delightfully fluffy texture and a lightly tangy flavor thanks to the buttermilk. Loved for their versatility and ability to pair well with both sweet and savory dishes, these biscuits make a perfect addition to any breakfast table or comforting dinner spread.
Ingredients
- 5 cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup shortening (or lard)
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 3 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 tsp active dry yeast
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 3 tbsp sugar
Instructions
Step 1: Activate Yeast
- Dissolve yeast in 1 cup warm water. Let sit until foamy, about 5–10 minutes.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
Step 3: Cut in Shortening
- Cut shortening into dry ingredients until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
- Stir in the yeast mixture and buttermilk. Mix until dough forms.
Step 5: Knead and Let Rise
- Knead briefly on a floured surface. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 40 minutes.
Step 6: Shape and Bake
- Roll out dough on floured board. Cut into biscuits. Bake at 400°F for approximately 12 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips
- Use cold shortening for a flakier texture.
- Substitute half the shortening with butter for richer flavor.
- Brush tops with melted butter after baking.
- Add ½ cup shredded cheese for savory biscuits.
- Swap buttermilk for whole milk + 1 tbsp vinegar if needed.
- Let dough rise slightly longer for an airier biscuit.
- Cut dough thicker for tall biscuits; thinner for crispier ones.
- Bake in a cast iron skillet for a rustic crust.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg for an old-fashioned flavor twist.
Nutrition
Calories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 4gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 2.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gTrans Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 320mgPotassium: 95mgFiber: 1gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 50IUCalcium: 90mgIron: 1.8mg
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