Yogurt or Buttermilk Biscuits

Indulge in the delight of homemade biscuits with this easy and versatile recipe. Whether you prefer tangy and tender results with yogurt or the classic flavor of buttermilk, these biscuits are guaranteed to be flaky and delicious. The addition of cake flour creates an extra-soft crumb, perfect for those seeking a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Customize your biscuits with various additions and explore the possibilities of these versatile treats. From the classic baking powder biscuits to sweet potato variations, there’s a biscuit for every preference.

MAKES: 10 or more biscuits, depending on size

TIME: 20 to 30 minutes

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 cups all-purpose or cake flour, plus more as needed
• 1 scant teaspoon salt
• 3 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 to 5 tablespoons cold butter (more is better)
• 3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons yogurt or buttermilk

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
2. In a bowl or food processor, mix together the all-purpose or cake flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda.
3. Cut the cold butter into small bits and add it to the dry ingredients. Use a food processor (recommended) or your fingers to pulse or rub the butter into the flour mixture until it is thoroughly blended. The mixture should resemble coarse crumbs.
4. Pulse a couple of times or use a large spoon to stir in the yogurt or buttermilk, just until the mixture forms a ball. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently for 10 times. If the dough is sticky, add a small amount of flour, but it should still have a slightly sticky consistency.
6. Press the dough into a 3/4-inch-thick rectangle and cut out 2-inch rounds using a biscuit cutter or a glass. Place the rounds on an ungreased baking sheet. Gently reshape the leftover dough and cut again.
7. Bake the biscuits in the preheated oven for 7 to 9 minutes, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown.
8. Serve the biscuits within 15 minutes for the best texture and flavor.

VARIATIONS:

Baking Powder Biscuits:

• Increase the baking powder to 4 teaspoons and omit the baking soda.
• Use milk instead of yogurt or buttermilk.

Drop (“Emergency”) Biscuits:

• Increase the amount of yogurt or milk to 1 cup.
• Drop tablespoons of the dough onto a greased baking sheet. Bake as directed.

Sweet Potato Biscuits:

• Grease the baking sheets.
• Stir 1 cup of puréed cooked sweet potato or winter squash into the butter-flour mixture.
• Add enough yogurt or buttermilk to form the dough into a ball, usually between 1/2 and 3/4 cup.
• Roll the dough slightly thinner, about 1/2 inch. Cut into biscuits as directed.
• Bake for 12 to 15 minutes.

These variations offer different flavors and textures to suit various preferences. From the simplicity of baking powder biscuits to the Southern-style goodness of sweet potato biscuits, there’s a biscuit to satisfy every palate.

Enjoy these tangy yogurt biscuits as a delightful addition to breakfast, brunch, or any meal of the day. They pair wonderfully with butter, jams, honey, or your favorite spreads. Experiment with the suggested variations or create your own unique combinations to make these biscuits truly your own.