There’s a special kind of comfort that comes with a freshly baked biscuit. Flaky, buttery, and golden brown, a biscuit can elevate any meal from ordinary to extraordinary. When it comes to iconic comfort food, KFC biscuits hold a special place in many hearts. These biscuits are a beloved part of the KFC experience, renowned for their soft, tender crumb and rich, buttery flavor. Recreating these at home can bring that same comforting experience to your kitchen.
I first encountered KFC biscuits during a family road trip. We stopped at a KFC drive-thru, and as the hot, fluffy biscuits were passed through the window, the aroma was irresistible. Each bite was a perfect balance of flakiness and softness, a delightful contrast to the crispy fried chicken. Inspired by this memorable experience, I decided to recreate these biscuits at home. After several attempts and taste tests, I’ve perfected a recipe that brings the same delicious flavor and texture to your kitchen.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to making your own KFC-style biscuits that will transport you back to that comforting, delicious moment, whether you’re serving them alongside a hearty meal or enjoying them on their own.
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 tablespoon sugar
4 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
3 tablespoons vegetable shortening
4 teaspoons Butter Flavor Crisco
1 cup buttermilk
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Ingredients
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven is crucial for achieving the perfect rise and golden color on your biscuits.
Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, sift together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt, 1 tablespoon of sugar, 4 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda. Sifting helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents and prevents clumping.
Step 2: Cut in the Shortening
Add the Shortening:
Cut 3 tablespoons of vegetable shortening and 4 teaspoons of Butter Flavor Crisco into the flour mixture. You can use a pastry cutter, two forks, or your fingers for this task.
Create the Crumb Mixture:
Work the shortening and Crisco into the flour mixture until the texture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial as it helps create the tender, flaky texture of the biscuits.
Step 3: Make the Dough
Add Buttermilk:
Pour 1 cup of buttermilk into the mixture. Stir just until a soft dough forms. The dough will be very loose and sticky, which is normal at this stage.
Prepare the Dough for Kneading:
Lightly flour a large wooden board or countertop. Turn the dough out onto the floured surface. Sprinkle more flour on top of the dough to help with handling.
Step 4: Knead and Shape the Dough
Knead the Dough:
Gently knead the dough 10 to 12 times. The goal is to bring the dough together and smooth out any lumps without overworking it. If the dough sticks to the surface, add a little more flour as needed.
Divide and Roll:
Divide the dough in half. Gently pat or roll each half into an 8-inch circle that is 1/2-inch thick. If you roll out the dough, be careful not to over-roll as this can affect the flakiness.
Step 5: Cut and Bake the Biscuits
Cut Out Biscuits:
Use a 2-inch biscuit cutter to cut out biscuits from the dough. Press straight down without twisting to ensure the biscuits rise properly. Gather and reform scraps, handling the dough as little as possible, and continue cutting out biscuits.
Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Place the cut biscuits on an ungreased baking sheet with their edges barely touching. This helps them rise up rather than spread out.
Brush with Milk:
Brush the tops of the biscuits with whole milk. This will give them a beautiful golden brown color and a slightly crisp top.
Bake:
Bake the biscuits in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to ensure they don’t over-brown.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Brush with Margarine:
Immediately after baking, brush the tops of the biscuits with margarine or butter for an extra touch of richness and flavor.
Serve:
Enjoy the biscuits warm, right out of the oven. They are perfect on their own or paired with a variety of dishes, from fried chicken to breakfast eggs.
Variations and Substitutions
Cheese Biscuits:
Add 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the flour mixture before adding the buttermilk. This adds a savory twist that complements the biscuits wonderfully.
Herb Biscuits:
Incorporate 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme into the flour mixture for a fragrant, herbaceous note.
Gluten-Free Version:
Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. Ensure the blend includes xanthan gum or guar gum to help the biscuits rise properly.
Dairy-Free Option:
Substitute the buttermilk with a non-dairy milk alternative mixed with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar to mimic the acidity of buttermilk.
Conclusion
Making homemade KFC-style biscuits is a delightful way to bring a touch of comfort food magic into your kitchen. The process of mixing, kneading, and baking creates a sensory experience that’s as enjoyable as eating the finished product. With its tender, flaky texture and rich, buttery flavor, this biscuit recipe captures the essence of those iconic KFC biscuits that so many people love. Whether you’re serving them alongside a hearty meal, enjoying them with a cup of tea, or simply savoring them fresh out of the oven, these biscuits are sure to become a cherished part of your baking repertoire. The simplicity of the ingredients combined with the rich, satisfying result makes this recipe both accessible and rewarding. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake a batch of biscuits that will make any meal feel extra special.
