Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold and cut into cubes)
3/4 cup buttermilk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Additional melted butter for brushing (optional)
Preparation
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and granulated sugar. Sifting helps aerate the flour and ensures even distribution of ingredients.
Incorporate Butter: Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, blend the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial for achieving a flaky texture in your biscuits.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and vanilla extract.
Create Dough: Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the buttermilk mixture. Gently stir the ingredients until just combined. Be cautious not to overmix; you want the dough to come together but still be slightly shaggy.
Knead and Shape: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface. Lightly knead it for about 30 seconds until it forms a cohesive ball. Pat the dough into a circle about 1 inch thick.
Cut the Biscuits: Using a round biscuit cutter or the rim of a glass, cut out the biscuits from the dough. Press straight down without twisting the cutter to ensure the biscuits rise evenly while baking. Place the cut biscuits onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each.
Reform and Cut Again: Gather the remaining dough scraps, gently pat them together, and cut out more biscuits. Repeat until all the dough is used, but try to handle the dough as little as possible for the most tender biscuits.
Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the biscuits for 12-15 minutes or until they turn golden brown on top.
Optional Butter Brush: If desired, when the biscuits are hot out of the oven, brush the tops with melted butter for a glossy finish and extra buttery flavor.
Serve: Allow the biscuits to cool for a few minutes on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy these buttery delights warm with your favorite jams, honey, or simply more butter!
These butter biscuits are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a side to your favorite savory dishes. Experiment with different toppings or additions like grated cheese or herbs for a unique twist!