Homemade Angel Biscuits

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Homemade Angel Biscuits

Introduction

Angel Biscuits are a delightful cross between a traditional biscuit and a yeast roll. Soft, tender, and fluffy, these biscuits are called “angel” biscuits because of their light, airy texture. The unique combination of baking powder, baking soda, and yeast allows the dough to rise beautifully while maintaining the buttery flakiness of classic biscuits. These biscuits are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy family dinner, slathered with butter, jam, or honey.

History of Angel Biscuits

Angel Biscuits have Southern roots in the United States, where home bakers traditionally valued recipes that were versatile and forgiving. The recipe became popular in the early 20th century due to the use of yeast, which ensures consistent rising and texture. Known for their “foolproof” nature, Angel Biscuits became a staple in Southern households, as they beautifully combined the characteristics of soft dinner rolls and flaky biscuits into one irresistible creation.

Benefits of Angel Biscuits

  1. Versatility: These biscuits can be served with sweet or savory toppings.
  2. Light and Fluffy: Yeast ensures a tender, airy texture.
  3. Easy to Make Ahead: Dough can be refrigerated overnight for convenience.
  4. Nutritional Value: Contains essential nutrients when prepared with wholesome ingredients.
  5. Comfort Food: Perfect for holidays, gatherings, or simple family meals.

Ingredients

5 cups all-purpose flour

1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 tablespoon baking powder

2 tablespoons granulated sugar

1 teaspoon salt

1 cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed)

2 cups buttermilk (cold)

1/4 cup warm water (to activate yeast)

Optional: 2 tablespoons melted butter for brushing

Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

  1. In a small bowl, combine the warm water and yeast.
  2. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

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

Step 3: Incorporate the Butter

  1. Add the cold, cubed butter into the flour mixture.
  2. Using a pastry cutter or your hands, work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

  1. Pour the activated yeast mixture and the cold buttermilk into the flour mixture.
  2. Stir until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

  1. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for 30 minutes or overnight. Chilling enhances the texture and makes rolling easier.

Step 6: Roll and Cut the Biscuits

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Roll the dough out on a floured surface to about 1/2 inch thickness.
  3. Use a round cutter to cut out biscuits. Avoid twisting the cutter to ensure even rising.

Step 7: Bake the Biscuits

  1. Place the biscuits on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between them.
  2. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
  3. Brush the tops with melted butter while still warm for extra flavor.

Methods

Traditional Mixing: This involves manually combining butter with flour for flaky layers.

Refrigerated Dough: Chilling the dough allows it to rise slowly and improves the biscuit’s structure.

Rolling and Cutting: Be gentle to avoid compressing the dough, which ensures maximum fluffiness.

Nutrition Information (Per Biscuit)

Calories: ~200-250 kcal

Carbohydrates: 25g

Protein: 4g

Fat: 10g (mainly from butter)

Calcium: 6% of Daily Value

Iron: 8% of Daily Value

Formation of Angel Biscuits

Angel Biscuits are formed using a combination of three leavening agents: yeast, baking soda, and baking powder. This triple-leavening approach ensures the biscuits rise uniformly, resulting in light, fluffy layers. The cold butter creates steam when baked, forming flaky pockets, while the yeast gives the biscuits their characteristic soft, airy crumb.

Who Loves Angel Biscuits?

Angel Biscuits are beloved by:

Southern Home Cooks: For their heritage and simplicity.

Bakers: Because of their reliable rise and versatility.

Families: As a comfort food enjoyed across generations.

Food Enthusiasts: For the perfect blend of biscuit and roll textures.

Breakfast Lovers: Served warm with jam, honey, or eggs.

Conclusion

Homemade Angel Biscuits are a true culinary treasure, combining the best elements of biscuits and yeast rolls. Their light, fluffy texture and buttery flavor make them a versatile addition to any meal. Whether you’re hosting a holiday brunch or simply craving comfort food, Angel Biscuits are sure to satisfy everyone at the table. By mastering this timeless recipe, you’ll bring warmth and tradition into your kitchen.

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