There's something truly magical about a pan of Southern - style kissing biscuits. They are not just a side dish; they are the heart and soul of a Sunday dinner, adding a touch of warmth and comfort to the table. In this article, we'll embark on a delightful journey to learn how to make these wonderful biscuits, following an easy recipe that will have them baking in a pan until they 'kiss'.
Let's start by understanding what makes Southern - style kissing biscuits so special. These biscuits have a rich history deeply rooted in the Southern culinary tradition. They are known for their soft, fluffy texture and a slightly sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with a variety of main courses. Whether it's a juicy steak, a savory pot roast, or a delicious bowl of gumbo, these biscuits are the ideal accompaniment.
To begin our biscuit - making adventure, we need to gather the necessary ingredients. You'll need all - purpose flour, which forms the base of the biscuits. It provides the structure and gives them that classic biscuit texture. Baking powder is another crucial ingredient. It acts as a leavening agent, making the biscuits rise and become light and airy. Salt is added to enhance the flavor, bringing out the natural sweetness of the other ingredients.
Butter is the key to the rich and buttery flavor of these biscuits. It not only adds taste but also contributes to the tender texture. You can use either salted or unsalted butter, depending on your preference. Milk is used to bind the ingredients together and create a dough that is easy to work with. Some recipes also call for a touch of sugar, which adds a subtle sweetness to the biscuits.
Now, let's move on to the actual process of making the biscuits. First, preheat your oven to the appropriate temperature. This is an important step as it ensures that the biscuits bake evenly and develop a nice golden - brown crust. In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar (if using). Use a whisk to mix these dry ingredients thoroughly, making sure there are no lumps.
Next, take the cold butter and cut it into small pieces. Add the butter to the dry ingredients and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial as it creates pockets of fat in the dough, which will melt during baking and give the biscuits their flaky texture.
Slowly pour in the milk while stirring the mixture with a wooden spoon. Keep adding milk until the dough comes together but is still slightly sticky. Be careful not to over - mix the dough, as this can result in tough biscuits. Once the dough is formed, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.
Knead the dough gently for a few minutes until it becomes smooth. Then, use a rolling pin to roll the dough out to a thickness of about 1 - 1.5 inches. Use a round cutter or a glass to cut out circles from the dough. Place the cut - out biscuits close together in a baking pan. This is where the 'kissing' part comes in. As the biscuits bake, they will expand and touch each other, creating that unique and charming look.
Brush the tops of the biscuits with a little milk or melted butter. This will give them a shiny and golden appearance. Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for the recommended time, usually around 15 - 20 minutes. Keep an eye on the biscuits as they bake, and when they are golden brown on top, they are ready to be taken out of the oven.
Once the biscuits are out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes before serving. You can enjoy them warm, straight from the pan, or you can serve them with a pat of butter and a drizzle of honey. These biscuits are also great for making sandwiches or for soaking up the delicious gravy from your main course.
In conclusion, Southern - style kissing biscuits are a true delight. They are easy to make, even for beginners, and they add a touch of Southern hospitality to any meal. So, the next time you're planning a Sunday dinner or a special occasion, don't forget to include a pan of these wonderful biscuits on the table. Your family and friends will surely thank you for it.
