Cathead Biscuits are a traditional Southern favorite, known for their large, fluffy size and simple ingredients. The name “cathead” comes from the fact that these biscuits are typically as large as a cat’s head! These hearty biscuits are perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and they’re incredibly easy to make. Whether served with gravy, jam, or just butter, cathead biscuits are a true comfort food.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple to make: With minimal ingredients and steps, this is a quick recipe anyone can master.
- Fluffy and soft: These biscuits are large and soft inside, making them perfect for any meal.
- Versatile: Enjoy them with your favorite toppings, such as honey, butter, or sausage gravy.
Ingredients for Cathead Biscuits
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold butter or shortening (cut into small pieces)
- 1 cup buttermilk
Directions
Mix the Dry Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until combined.
Add Butter and Buttermilk
- Cut the cold butter into the dry ingredients using a pastry cutter or your hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Slowly add the buttermilk, mixing just until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the biscuits tough.
Shape and Bake
- Scoop large mounds of dough (about 1/4 cup each) and place them onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown on top.
Serve
- Enjoy warm with butter, honey, or your favorite toppings. These biscuits are perfect with sausage gravy for a traditional Southern breakfast.
Tips for the Best Cathead Biscuits
- Use cold butter: Cold butter or shortening helps create a flaky texture.
- Don’t overwork the dough: Mixing too much can result in dense biscuits. Just combine the ingredients until the dough holds together.
- Customize the flavor: Add shredded cheese or herbs to the dough for extra flavor.
Variations
- Add cheese: Mix in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar for cheesy biscuits.
- Make it sweet: Add 2 tablespoons of sugar and serve with jam or honey for a sweet variation.
For more hearty Southern recipes, check out:
- Bacon-Wrapped Dill Pickles for a savory snack idea.
- Pumpkin Bread Pudding for a fall dessert you’ll love.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I freeze these biscuits?
Yes! After baking, allow the biscuits to cool completely and store them in an airtight container in the freezer. Reheat them in the oven when ready to serve.
2. What’s the best way to reheat cathead biscuits?
Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes to retain their fluffy texture.
3. Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, but buttermilk gives the biscuits a softer texture and richer flavor. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
Conclusion: A True Southern Comfort Dish
In summary, Cathead Biscuits are a classic Southern treat that’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast or as a side dish, these biscuits are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.