Fluffy Butter Biscuits

Ingredients

• 1 1/4 oz packet rapid rise yeast
• 1/4 cup lukewarm water (105°F)
• 2 Tbsp granulated sugar plus 1 tsp (divided)
• 3 cups all purpose flour
• 1 Tbsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 cup cold salted butter or unsalted butter (cubed)
• 1 cup buttermilk (not fat free)
• 1/2 cup butter (melted)

Instructions

1. 1

   Dissolve yeast and 1 tsp sugar in lukewarm water. Set aside to bloom for 5-7 minutes. There should be foamy with bubbles forming on top. If it doesn't, toss and start again.

2. 2

   In a medium-size mixing bowl, use a whisk to sift together flour, remaining 2 Tbsp sugar, baking powder, salt and baking soda.

3. 3

   Using a pastry cutter to cut cold butter into the dry ingredients until it resembles cornmeal. We're going for a more fine texture not pea-sized pieces like when making a pie crust recipe.

4. 4

   Make a well in the center. (You can also use 2 forks, a food processor or even a hand mixer on low speed to cut the butter into the dry ingredients.)

5. 5

   To the well add buttermilk and yeast to the flour mixture. Use a fork to work the liquid into the flour until fully moistened.

6. 6

   Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and turn a few times, kneading lightly just until the dough comes together. Use a rolling pin or your hands to form roughly into an 8-inch square that's 1/2-3/4 inch thick. (This allows room for dough to spread as it rises)

7. 7

   Use a sharp knife to cut into 9 or 12 equal pieces depending on the amount of servings you need.

8. 8

   Pour half of the melted butter into a 9x9-inch baking pan. Swirl to coat bottom and halfway up sides. Arrange biscuits in pan, reshaping as needed to fit. Pour remaining melted butter on top. Cover with a damp cloth and allow to rise for 1 hour.

9. 9

   Heat Oven: Preheat oven to 400°F. Bake butter biscuits for 15-20 minutes until puffed and golden brown.

10. 10

    Separate and serve immediately with butter, jam or sausage gravy.