Name: Angel Biscuits Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 packages instant or active yeast; 4 tablespoons warm water ((110-115 degrees)); 5 cups all-purpose flour; ½ cup sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 cup cold butter ((cut into small cubes)); 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup buttermilk

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Angel biscuits are a delightful cross between a biscuit and a yeast roll, creating a fluffy, tender treat that’s perfect for any meal. These heavenly bites are light yet rich, and they can elevate your breakfast or dinner table in no time. Imagine slathering them with butter or your favorite jam while they are still warm from the oven. Let’s dive into how to make these scrumptious angel biscuits that will have everyone coming back for more.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

Angel biscuits are not just any biscuits; they are versatile and can accompany a variety of dishes. Their unique texture comes from the combination of yeast and baking powder, giving them a delightful rise and fluffiness. Perfect for brunch, dinner, or even as a snack, these biscuits can be tailored to your taste preferences. Plus, they are simple to make and freeze beautifully, ensuring you always have a delicious option on hand.

What You’ll Need

2 packages instant or active yeast
4 tablespoons warm water (110-115 degrees)
5 cups all-purpose flour
½ cup sugar
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 cup cold butter, cut into small cubes (plus more to melt and brush over baked biscuits if desired)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup buttermilk

Equipment at a Glance

Mixing bowls – For combining your dry and wet ingredients.
Whisk – To ensure even mixing of the dry ingredients.
Rolling pin – To roll out the dough to the desired thickness.
Baking sheet – For placing the biscuits in the oven.
Pastry brush – For applying melted butter over the baked biscuits.
Oven – Essential for baking these lovely biscuits to golden perfection.

Stepwise Method: Angel Biscuits Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm water. Let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to help your biscuits rise.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. Make sure all the dry ingredients are well combined for an even texture.

Step 3: Cut in the Butter

Add the cold butter cubes to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial for that flaky texture we all love in biscuits.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

Pour in the heavy cream, buttermilk, and activated yeast mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine!

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight. Chilling the dough will enhance the flavors and make it easier to handle.

Step 6: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) so that it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake.

Step 7: Roll and Cut the Dough

Lightly flour your work surface and turn out the chilled dough. Roll it out to about ½-inch thickness. Use a biscuit cutter to cut out rounds, and place them on a greased baking sheet. Make sure to gather any scraps and re-roll to cut out more biscuits.

Step 8: Bake the Biscuits

Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until the biscuits are golden brown. If desired, brush the tops with melted butter right after they come out of the oven for an extra touch of richness.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy!

Let the biscuits cool slightly before serving. They are best enjoyed warm, with butter, jam, or honey. You may even want to try them with your favorite gravy or as a side to your main dish.

Flavor-Forward Alternatives

Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for a savory twist.
Incorporate shredded cheese such as cheddar or parmesan for a cheesy flavor.
Mix in a handful of chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
For a sweet version, add chocolate chips or dried fruits like cranberries.

Method to the Madness

The beauty of angel biscuits lies in their unique combination of leavening agents. The yeast provides a lift and depth of flavor, while the baking powder ensures a quick rise. The use of cold butter creates that desired flakiness, while the heavy cream and buttermilk add moisture and richness. This recipe is all about balance, allowing you to enjoy a biscuit that is not only light but also flavorful and satisfying.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

To keep your angel biscuits fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Wrap each biscuit tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply pop them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

FAQ

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?

Yes, all-purpose flour works perfectly in this angel biscuits recipe. It provides the right texture without the need for bread flour.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

You can easily make a buttermilk substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for a few minutes before adding it to your recipe.

Can I make these biscuits ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just roll, cut, and bake when you’re ready to enjoy them.

How do I know when the biscuits are done?

The biscuits are done when they are golden brown on top and have risen nicely. You can also check the bottom; it should be lightly browned as well.

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The Last Word

Making angel biscuits is a simple yet rewarding endeavor that brings warmth and joy to any table. These biscuits offer the perfect blend of taste and texture, ensuring that they will be a beloved staple in your kitchen. Whether you serve them with a hearty stew, breakfast spread, or just on their own with a pat of butter, they are sure to impress. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s create something truly special with this angel biscuits recipe. Your taste buds will thank you!