Introduction:
If you’re a fan of soft, fluffy, and cloud-like biscuits, then Angel Biscuits are a must-try. These biscuits are a delightful hybrid, combining the light, flaky texture of a classic biscuit with the soft, pillowy nature of a dinner roll. They’re easy to make and require no professional baking skills—just a few simple ingredients and a touch of patience. The key to their irresistible fluffiness lies in the unique combination of yeast, baking powder, and baking soda. Whether served with butter, jam, or alongside a hearty meal, Angel Biscuits are the perfect addition to any dining table.
Ingredients:
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup vegetable shortening
1/4 cup cold butter, cubed
1/2 cup warm milk
2 teaspoons active dry yeast
1/4 cup warm water
Instructions:
Activate the Yeast:
In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water with a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Cut in Shortening and Butter:
Add the vegetable shortening and cold butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the fats into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Pour the activated yeast mixture and warm milk into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spoon until the dough just comes together.
Knead and Rest:
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough a few times until it becomes smooth, being careful not to overwork it. Form the dough into a ball and cover it with a kitchen towel. Let it rest for about 30 minutes to allow the yeast to work its magic.
Shape the Biscuits:
After resting, roll the dough out to about ½ inch thickness. Using a biscuit cutter or a glass, cut out the biscuits. Place them on a greased baking sheet, ensuring they’re close together for soft, tender sides.
Bake:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the biscuits for 12-15 minutes or until they are golden brown on top.
Serve and Enjoy:
Let the Angel Biscuits cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve with butter, honey, or your favorite jam, and enjoy the fluffy goodness!
Tips for Serving and Storing:
Serving Suggestions: Angel biscuits pair wonderfully with everything from a hearty dinner to breakfast. Serve them with soups, stews, roasted meats, or simply spread with a little butter or jam.
Storage: To keep your biscuits fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the baked biscuits for up to 3 months. Just reheat them in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
Reheating: To bring back the lightness and softness of the biscuits, wrap them in foil and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes.
Variants:
Garlic Angel Biscuits: Add minced garlic or garlic powder to the dough for a savory twist that’s perfect with pasta or roasted meats.
Cheese and Herb Biscuits: Mix in grated cheddar cheese and fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an extra layer of flavor.
Buttermilk Angel Biscuits: Substitute the milk with buttermilk for a tangy flavor that enhances the richness of the biscuits.
Sweet Angel Biscuits: For a sweeter version, add a tablespoon of honey or cinnamon sugar to the dough before baking.
FAQ:
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