Skillet Biscuits
Introduction
There’s something deeply comforting about a warm, golden biscuit fresh out of a hot skillet. These skillet biscuits bring the timeless charm of Southern baking to your kitchen.
blending simplicity with rich, buttery flavor. Whether you serve them alongside breakfast, use them to soak up savory gravy, or pair them with sweet jam, they’re guaranteed to satisfy.
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
3/4 cup buttermilk (or milk mixed with 1 tablespoon vinegar and left to sit for 5 minutes)
Optional: 1 tablespoon melted butter (for brushing on top)
Instructions
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a cast-iron skillet in the oven to heat while you prepare the dough.
This step ensures that the biscuits start baking on a hot surface, giving them that coveted golden crust on the bottom.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents and salt throughout the flour, giving your biscuits an even rise and flavor.
Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter, fork, or your fingertips.
work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs The small pieces of butter create steam while baking, leading to a flakier texture.
Pour in the buttermilk and gently stir until the dough comes together. Avoid overmixing—this can lead to tough biscuits. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a rectangle about 1/2 inch thick.
Fold the dough over itself a couple of times to create layers, then pat it out again to about 3/4 inch thickness.
Using a biscuit cutter or a round glass dipped in flour, cut out biscuits and place them carefully into the hot skillet.
The biscuits should touch each other slightly, which helps them rise evenly and stay moist on the sides.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown. Remove from the oven and brush with melted butter for an extra touch of flavor and shine.
How to Make
Start by assembling all your ingredients and tools. Using cold ingredients, especially the butter and buttermilk, is crucial for a flaky biscuit texture. Pre-chilling your mixing bowl or flour can also help keep the dough cold.
Warm up your skillet in the oven while preparing the dough.
This technique gives the biscuits a head start in baking and contributes to a deliciously crisp base. A cast-iron skillet is ideal for even heat distribution and browning.
Combine the dry ingredients first to ensure that your leavening agents—baking powder and baking soda—are evenly mixed throughout the flour. This step avoids uneven rising during baking.
Cut in the butter using a pastry cutter or fork, working quickly to keep it from melting. Some small, visible chunks of butter should remain in the dough to promote flakiness.
After adding the buttermilk, stir gently until the dough just comes together. Overworking the dough activates the gluten in the flour, which can result in dense, chewy biscuits rather than light and fluffy ones.
Layering the dough by folding it over itself a few times before cutting encourages a flakier structure. This simple technique mimics the lamination used in croissants or puff pastry.
Arrange the cut biscuits in the hot skillet so that they’re touching. This supports a better rise. After baking, allow them to cool slightly before serving with butter, honey, or jam.
Variations
Swap out the buttermilk for sour cream or yogurt thinned with a bit of milk for a tangier biscuit. This adds richness and a moist texture that pairs well with savory meals.
Incorporate shredded cheddar cheese and chopped chives into the dough for a cheesy, herby version. This is a great side dish for soups or hearty stews.
Add a sweet twist by stirring in a tablespoon of sugar and some cinnamon to the dry ingredients. Serve with fruit preserves or a honey glaze for a breakfast treat.
Include cooked, crumbled bacon or sausage in the dough to make a heartier biscuit. These are perfect for grab-and-go breakfast sandwiches.
Try using whole wheat flour for part of the all-purpose flour for a more wholesome, nutty flavor. This change pairs nicely with savory spreads like herbed cream cheese.
For a vegan option, substitute plant-based butter and use almond milk curdled with vinegar in place of buttermilk. Be sure to chill the plant-based butter before cutting it in.
Infuse the melted butter used for brushing with garlic or rosemary for a fragrant, flavorful topping. This small change can elevate a simple biscuit into a memorable side.
Tips
Always use cold butter and keep your dough cool. Warm ingredients melt too soon and prevent steam pockets that create flakiness during baking.
Don’t twist your biscuit cutter when cutting the dough—just press straight down. Twisting seals the edges and can prevent the biscuits from rising properly.
Avoid overmixing the dough once the liquid is added. Gentle handling leads to tender, fluffy results, while overworking it activates gluten and causes toughness.
Using a hot skillet not only gives a great crust on the bottom but also starts the baking process immediately, encouraging rise and color development.
Let the biscuits touch in the skillet for soft sides and even rising. If you prefer crispier edges, leave some space between them.
Brushing the tops with melted butter after baking gives them a rich flavor and appetizing sheen. For an even more golden look, you can brush with egg wash before baking.
Leftover biscuits can be stored in an airtight container and reheated in a low oven or split and toasted. Avoid microwaving, which can make them rubbery.
Conclusion
Skillet biscuits are a humble yet delicious staple that every home cook should master. With a few simple ingredients and techniques.
you can create buttery, golden, and tender biscuits that shine whether served alone or as part of a meal.
Whether you keep them classic or explore creative variations, these biscuits are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Their irresistible texture and rich flavor make them a timeless comfort food worth sharing again and again.