These are called “Angel Biscuits” – One bite, and you’ll be in heaven too!

 

A beloved Southern classic, Angel Biscuits are the perfect hybrid of a flaky baking powder biscuit and a soft, airy yeast roll. Their signature tenderness and rich, buttery flavor make them an irresistible addition to any breakfast, brunch, or dinner table.

• ⏰ Prep Time: 25 minutes

• ⏰ Rise Time: 30 minutes

• ⏰ Bake Time: 12-15 minutes

• 🍽️ Yields: About 2 dozen biscuits

🧂 INGREDIENTS

• 5 cups (625g) all-purpose flour

• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• 3 teaspoons baking powder

• 2 teaspoons salt

• 1 package (¼ oz / 7g) active dry yeast

• ¼ cup (60ml) warm water (110–115°F / 43–46°C)

• 1 cup (190g) vegetable shortening

• 2 cups (480ml) buttermilk

• 2-3 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing)

👩‍🍳 INSTRUCTIONS

1. Activate the Yeast:

• In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm water. Let it stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.

2. Combine Dry Ingredients:

• In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.

3. Cut in Shortening:

• Using a pastry cutter or two forks, cut the shortening into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

4. Make the Dough:

• Create a well in the center of the flour mixture. Pour in the foamy yeast and the buttermilk.

• Stir with a wooden spoon just until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.

5. Knead and Shape:

• Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead 10-12 times until the dough holds together.

• Roll or pat the dough out to a ½-inch thickness. Using a floured 2-inch biscuit cutter, cut out rounds, pressing straight down without twisting.

6. Let Rise:

• Place the biscuits on an ungreased or parchment-lined baking sheet, close together for soft sides or spaced apart for crispier sides.

• Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let rise in a warm, draft-free place for 30-45 minutes, until puffy.

7. Bake:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while the biscuits are rising.

• Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the tops are light golden brown.

8. Finish and Serve:

• Remove from the oven and immediately brush the tops with melted butter.

• Serve warm and enjoy!

💡 Pro-Tips for Perfect Angel Biscuits:

• Chilled Shortening: For the flakiest texture, ensure your shortening is cold.

• Handle with Care: The key to tender biscuits is to handle the dough as little as possible. Over-kneading will make them tough.

• No Buttermilk? Make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to a measuring cup and filling it with enough milk to make 2 cups. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

• Make-Ahead Friendly: The cut, unbaked biscuits can be covered and refrigerated overnight. Let them come to room temperature for 20-30 minutes before baking as directed.