These Angel Biscuits are so light and airy that they practically melt in your mouth. With a golden, buttery exterior and a soft, fluffy interior, they’re the perfect side dish to any meal.
Whether you serve them at breakfast, with dinner, or alongside your favorite gravy, these biscuits will elevate any occasion. With their irresistible texture and rich flavor, they’re a family favorite and an absolute must-have in your recipe box. The secret lies in the perfect balance of butter, shortening, and buttermilk, creating biscuits that are tender, flaky, and wonderfully delicious every time.
Full Recipe:
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 tablespoon baking powder
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1 teaspoon baking soda
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1 teaspoon salt
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1 tablespoon sugar
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1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
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1/2 cup shortening
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1 cup buttermilk
Directions:
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Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
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Add the cubed cold butter and shortening to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or fork to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
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Slowly pour in the buttermilk and stir with a spoon until just combined. The dough will be sticky.
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Lightly flour a clean surface and turn the dough out onto it. Gently fold the dough over on itself a few times to bring it together.
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Pat the dough into a 1-inch thick rectangle. Using a round biscuit cutter, cut out biscuits and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
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Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the biscuits are golden brown.
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Serve warm, with butter and honey if desired.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 27 minutes
Kcal: 180 kcal per biscuit | Servings: 12 biscuits
History and Origin
The origin of Angel Biscuits is rooted in the deep traditions of Southern cooking. These biscuits are believed to have been first introduced in the early 20th century as a hybrid of traditional biscuit and yeast roll recipes. While biscuits have been a staple in Southern kitchens for centuries, the introduction of yeast into the dough is what set Angel Biscuits apart. This combination of baking powder, baking soda, and yeast gives these biscuits their characteristic lightness and fluffiness.
The exact origin of Angel Biscuits is debated, with some food historians attributing the recipe to a Southern cookbook author named Marion Cunningham, who popularized it in the 1930s. Others suggest the recipe was created by Southern women looking to achieve the soft, airy texture of a yeast roll, without the time and effort required to prepare traditional yeast dough.
Angel Biscuits have since become a beloved comfort food in the South and beyond, often gracing tables at family gatherings, holiday meals, and Sunday dinners. The combination of convenience and flavor made them a go-to choice for busy cooks, allowing them to serve a soft, buttery biscuit with minimal effort.
Variations and Adaptations
While the classic version of Angel Biscuits remains a fan favorite, there are many ways to adapt the recipe to suit personal tastes or regional preferences. The traditional recipe calls for butter and shortening, but some variations substitute all butter or all shortening, depending on what is available or desired. Those looking for a richer flavor may add a little more butter, while others prefer the slightly flakier texture that results from using more shortening.
Another variation involves the type of flour used. While all-purpose flour is standard, some bakers prefer to use self-rising flour for added convenience, eliminating the need to measure out baking powder and salt. However, the self-rising flour method may slightly alter the biscuit’s texture, so it’s important to adjust the recipe accordingly.
Angel Biscuits can also be made with buttermilk, but for a lighter flavor, some cooks prefer to use regular milk or a non-dairy alternative like almond milk. To accommodate dietary restrictions, these biscuits can also be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. However, it’s essential to use a blend designed specifically for baking to achieve the desired texture.
In some regions, Angel Biscuits are served with savory additions such as cheese, herbs, or spices. Adding shredded cheddar cheese or chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can turn these biscuits into a delicious accompaniment to savory dishes like soups or roasted meats. In other variations, a dash of garlic powder or onion powder is incorporated into the dough to add a more savory twist.
Nutritional Information
Angel Biscuits, like many traditional comfort foods, are not exactly a low-calorie dish. However, they can still be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. On average, one Angel Biscuit contains approximately 180 calories. These calories come primarily from fat, with each biscuit providing about 10 grams of fat, including 6 grams of saturated fat.
In addition to fat, Angel Biscuits provide carbohydrates, with each biscuit containing roughly 20 grams of carbs, including 1 gram of fiber and 1 gram of sugar. While they don’t provide a significant amount of protein, each biscuit offers about 2 grams of protein.
As for micronutrients, Angel Biscuits offer small amounts of essential vitamins and minerals, including calcium from the buttermilk, and iron, which is present in the flour. However, given their high fat content, these biscuits should be enjoyed as an occasional treat rather than a daily indulgence.
For those looking to make the recipe a bit lighter, substituting some of the butter and shortening for healthier oils or reducing the amount of butter used can slightly decrease the calorie and fat content. Additionally, using a plant-based milk can reduce the cholesterol level for those following a dairy-free or plant-based diet.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Angel Biscuits are incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of dishes, from breakfast to dinner. For breakfast, serve them warm with butter and a drizzle of honey or your favorite jam. The buttery biscuit pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea, making it an excellent choice for a cozy morning meal.
At lunch or dinner, Angel Biscuits shine when served alongside soups, stews, or chili. Their soft texture makes them perfect for sopping up flavorful broths or rich gravies. Pair them with hearty dishes like fried chicken, beef stew, or even a simple salad for a well-rounded meal.
These biscuits also make a great accompaniment to a holiday spread or special occasion meal. Serve them alongside roasted meats like turkey, ham, or prime rib, where their mild flavor and delicate texture provide a perfect balance to richer main dishes. You can also use them as a base for a biscuit sandwich—stuffed with anything from eggs and bacon to turkey and cranberry sauce for a delicious, easy meal.
For drinks, consider pairing your Angel Biscuits with a refreshing glass of iced tea, lemonade, or even a warm cup of hot chocolate in colder months. If you’re serving them as part of a larger meal, a nice dry white wine, like Chardonnay, or a light sparkling wine will complement the buttery richness of the biscuits without overpowering them.
Tips and Tricks for Success
To ensure your Angel Biscuits turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
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Use cold ingredients: The cold butter and shortening are key to achieving that flaky, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Be sure to chill them in the fridge before use, and handle the dough as gently as possible to avoid overworking it.
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Don’t overmix the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough biscuits. Mix the dough just enough to bring it together—some lumps are perfectly fine!
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Chill the dough: After mixing, you can refrigerate the dough for 15-20 minutes before rolling it out. This helps the biscuits maintain their structure during baking and enhances their texture.
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Use a sharp cutter: When cutting your biscuits, be sure to use a sharp biscuit cutter. Press straight down without twisting to ensure clean cuts, which help the biscuits rise evenly.
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Bake immediately: Angel Biscuits rise best when baked right after they’re prepared. If you wait too long to bake them, they may lose their fluffiness.
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Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add herbs, cheese, or garlic powder to the dough for a savory twist. For a sweet option, sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top before baking for a slightly sweet biscuit.
Potential Health Benefits
While Angel Biscuits are a delightful indulgence, there are a few health benefits to consider. Buttermilk, one of the key ingredients, is a good source of calcium, which is important for maintaining strong bones and teeth. It also contains probiotics, which can support digestive health.
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Furthermore, if you make substitutions like using plant-based milk or reducing the amount of butter, you can create a lighter version of the biscuits that is lower in saturated fat and cholesterol, making them a bit more heart-healthy.
That said, due to their high fat and calorie content, it’s best to enjoy Angel Biscuits in moderation. They can be a delicious treat for special occasions or a comforting addition to a balanced meal.
Conclusion
Angel Biscuits are the perfect blend of a biscuit and a yeast roll—soft, fluffy, and utterly irresistible. Their rich, buttery flavor and delicate texture make them a favorite among home cooks and food enthusiasts alike. Whether served at breakfast, alongside dinner, or as part of a festive meal, Angel Biscuits bring a touch of Southern charm to any table. The recipe is versatile, adaptable, and always a hit with family and friends. So go ahead and give this classic Southern dish a try—you won’t regret it!