These light, fluffy, and buttery biscuits are a delightful twist on the classic buttermilk biscuit.
The addition of yeast gives them a fluffier texture, earning them the heavenly moniker “angel biscuits.”
In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the history of angel biscuits, their ingredients, how to make them, and creative ways to enjoy these heavenly treats.
The History of Angel Biscuits: A Southern Legacy
Angel biscuits have a rich history rooted in the American South.
While the exact origins of these fluffy biscuits are unclear, they are believed to have emerged as a fusion of traditional buttermilk biscuits and yeast rolls.
This unique combination of ingredients creates a biscuit that is both tender and airy, making it a favorite at Southern gatherings and holiday feasts.
Ingredients that Make Angel Biscuits So Heavenly
The key ingredients in angel biscuits are what give them their distinct flavor and texture.
A typical angel biscuit recipe includes flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, salt, butter, buttermilk, and yeast.
The combination of baking powder and yeast is what sets angel biscuits apart from traditional biscuits, giving them their signature light and fluffy texture.
How to Make Angel Biscuits: A Step-by-Step Guide
Making angel biscuits is a straightforward process that requires a bit of time and patience but yields delicious results.
Here is a simple step-by-step guide to making your own batch of heavenly angel biscuits:
Gather Your Ingredients: Make sure you have all the necessary ingredients on hand before you begin.
This includes flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, salt, butter, buttermilk, and yeast.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, and salt.
Mix well to ensure the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
Cut in the Butter: Cut cold butter into small cubes and add it to the dry ingredients.
Using a pastry cutter or your hands, work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
Activate the Yeast: In a separate bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for a few minutes until it becomes frothy.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Once the yeast is activated, add it to the dry ingredients along with the buttermilk.
Mix everything together until a soft dough forms.
Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it gently for a few minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
Cut and Shape the Biscuits: Roll out the dough to a 1-inch thickness and use a biscuit cutter to cut out biscuits.
Place the biscuits on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Let Them Rise: Cover the biscuits with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise in a warm, draft-free space for about 30 minutes.
Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the biscuits for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Enjoy Your Heavenly Creations: Serve the angel biscuits warm with butter, jam, or honey for a truly heavenly experience.
Creative Ways to Enjoy Angel Biscuits
While angel biscuits are delicious on their own, they also lend themselves well to a variety of creative toppings and fillings.
Here are some ideas to elevate your angel biscuit experience:
Sweet and Savory Toppings: Top your angel biscuits with sweet toppings like honey, jam, or whipped cream for a delightful treat.
For a savory twist, try spreading them with butter and pairing them with fried chicken or bacon.
Sandwiches and Sliders: Use angel biscuits as a base for delicious sandwiches and sliders.
Fill them with your favorite ingredients like ham, cheese, lettuce, and tomato for a satisfying meal.
Breakfast Biscuits: Turn your angel biscuits into a hearty breakfast by topping them with scrambled eggs, bacon, and cheese.
You can also make breakfast sandwiches by adding a sausage patty or a slice of avocado.
Dessert Delights: Get creative with dessert by using angel biscuits in sweet treats like strawberry shortcake, berry cobblers, or ice cream sandwiches.
The light and fluffy texture of the biscuits pairs perfectly with fresh fruit and creamy toppings.
