Cathead biscuits are a Southern classic, known for their large, fluffy size and rustic charm. They’re simple to make, with only a handful of ingredients, and they can be served with anything from butter and jam to hearty gravy. The name “cathead” comes from their size—they’re as big as a cat’s head! Whether you’re new to making biscuits or a seasoned baker, this recipe is easy to follow and will give you delicious, soft biscuits with a golden, crisp exterior.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make: With only a few basic ingredients and steps, these biscuits come together quickly.
- Fluffy and light: The biscuits are soft and airy on the inside, with a buttery crispness on the outside.
- Versatile: Serve them with savory dishes like gravy or sweet toppings like honey or jam.
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 (you can substitute with regular milk and lemon juice if needed)
Directions
1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
2. Incorporate the Butter
- Using a pastry cutter or your hands, cut the cold butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Be careful not to overmix, as cold butter chunks help create a flaky texture.
3. Add the Buttermilk
- Slowly pour in the buttermilk, stirring just until the dough comes together. The dough should be slightly sticky but not overly wet. If it seems too dry, add a little more buttermilk, a tablespoon at a time.
4. Shape the Biscuits
- Using a large spoon or your hands, scoop the dough into large portions, about 1/4 cup each, and place them onto the prepared baking sheet. The biscuits should be rough and rustic, so no need to smooth them out.
5. Bake
- Bake the biscuits for 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the bottoms are crispy.
- Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- With butter and jam: These biscuits are perfect served warm with a generous spread of butter and your favorite jam or honey.
- With gravy: For a heartier meal, serve the biscuits smothered in sausage or country gravy.
- As a breakfast sandwich: Use these biscuits as the base for a delicious breakfast sandwich with eggs, bacon, or sausage.
Tips for the Best Cathead Biscuits
- Keep the butter cold: Cold butter is essential for creating a flaky biscuit. Don’t let it soften too much while mixing.
- Don’t overmix the dough: Overmixing can make the biscuits dense. Mix just until the dough comes together.
- Add flavor twists: For extra flavor, you can mix in shredded cheese, fresh herbs like rosemary, or even a bit of garlic powder into the dough.
Variations and Add-Ins
- Cheesy Cathead Biscuits: Add 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the dry ingredients for a savory twist.
- Sweet Cathead Biscuits: Add 2 tablespoons of sugar to the dry ingredients and serve with honey or fruit preserves for a sweeter version.
- Herb Biscuits: Mix in 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped herbs like thyme, rosemary, or chives for an extra burst of flavor.
For more hearty and delicious Southern recipes, try:
- Pumpkin Bread Pudding for a sweet and cozy dessert.
- Bacon-Wrapped Dill Pickles for a savory snack idea.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, buttermilk gives the biscuits a richer flavor and softer texture. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
2. How do I store leftover biscuits?
Store leftover biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
3. Can I freeze cathead biscuits?
Yes! After baking, let the biscuits cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. You can freeze them for up to 3 months. Reheat them in the oven to bring back their fresh texture.
Conclusion: Easy, Fluffy, and Delicious Biscuits
These Cathead Biscuits are a simple and delicious way to enjoy a Southern classic. Whether you’re serving them at breakfast with gravy or as a snack with butter and honey, they’re sure to be a hit. With only a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for any home cook.