How to Make Buttermilk Biscuits Without Buttermilk

If you're out of buttermilk but still crave those flaky, buttery homemade biscuits, don't fret! With a bit of creativity, you can make delicious buttermilk biscuits even when you don't have the traditional ingredient. Let's explore how to make 'Othermilk Biscuits' without buttermilk.

Understanding Buttermilk's Role

Buttermilk's unique tanginess and ability to tenderize dough make it the go-to ingredient for perfect biscuits. However, with a simple substitution, you can achieve similar results using a store-bought ingredient or a homemade buttermilk alternative.

Home-Made Buttermilk Substitute

For those who can't find buttermilk at the grocery store, making a quick and easy buttermilk substitute is a lifesaver. Simply mix 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice with 1 cup of regular milk. Let this mixture sit for about 5 minutes, allowing the acid in the vinegar or lemon juice to activate and mimic the sourness of buttermilk. This substitute will work just fine in your dough but won't be identical to true buttermilk.

Substitutes for Buttermilk

Milk with Baking Powder

An alternative to using vinegar or lemon juice is to use a combination of milk and baking powder. This method also helps to tenderize the dough. Mix 1 cup of regular milk with 1 tablespoon of baking powder. Let it sit for 5 minutes, allowing the baking powder to activate. This creates a similar tangy texture but with a slight lift in the dough.

Sour Cream for That Buttermilk Taste

Sour cream is another great substitute. Simply mix 1 cup of plain yogurt or sour cream with 1 teaspoon of cream of tartar. This mixture will provide a tangy flavor that closely mimics buttermilk. Use this substitute in your biscuits for a rich and creamy texture.

Steps to Make Othermilk Biscuits

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour 2 tablespoons baking powder 1 teaspoon salt 3 tablespoons sugar 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cut into small pieces 3/4 cup buttermilk substitute (as described above) Extra butter for greasing the pan

Instructions

Sift the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar into a large mixing bowl. Combine well to ensure no lumps and a light texture.

Cut the butter into the dry mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Add the buttermilk substitute and mix just until the dough comes together. Be sure not to overmix!

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead gently for about 10 seconds. Avoid overworking the dough as this can make the biscuits tough.

Roll the dough to about 1-inch thickness and use a biscuit cutter or a rimmed glass to cut out biscuits. Gather the scraps, roll again, and cut more biscuits.

Place the biscuits on a greased baking sheet and generously brush with melted butter. If desired, you can also sprinkle a bit of sugar on top for added sweetness.

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and bake the biscuits for about 12-15 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.

Let the biscuits cool for a few minutes before serving warm from the oven. Enjoy your homemade 'Othermilk Biscuits'!

Tips for Perfecting Your Biscuits

To get the best results from your 'Othermilk Biscuits,' follow these tips:

Use cold butter to keep the biscuits flaky. Try not to overmix the dough as it can result in tough biscuits. Bake at a high temperature initially to set the structure and then lower the heat to ensure even baking. Brush the biscuits with more butter after baking for a richer flavor.

Conclusion

With a bit of creativity and the right substitutions, you can make fabulous buttermilk biscuits without even needing buttermilk. Whether you use a homemade buttermilk substitute, milk with baking powder, or sour cream, your biscuits will be flaky, tender, and delicious. So the next time you're in a bind, simply label them 'Othermilk Biscuits' and enjoy a comforting, warm, and buttery treat.