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Homemade cathead biscuits served on a plate with butter and jam.

Cathead Biscuits

Large, flaky, and buttery biscuits known for their rustic charm and comforting texture, perfect for any meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Breakfast, Brunch, Side Dish
Cuisine Southern
Servings 6 biscuits
Calories 380 kcal

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour (White Lily preferred)
  • 1 tbsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • 1 ¼ tsp salt

Fats

  • ½ cup salted butter, diced cold
  • 3 tbsp shortening (like Crisco), diced cold

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups whole buttermilk, shaken
  • 2 tbsp melted salted butter (for brushing tops)

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat oven to 425°F with rack in the upper-middle position. Grease a 10-inch cast iron skillet (or use an 8–9 inch round cake pan).
  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
  • Add the diced butter and shortening, and work them in using fingers, a pastry cutter, or a fork until it resembles coarse meal.
  • Stir in the cold buttermilk just until combined. The dough will be sticky.
  • Drop 6 equal mounds of dough into the skillet, allowing them to touch slightly.
  • Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown.
  • Brush warm biscuits with melted butter and allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving warm.

Notes

Best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. Can serve with a variety of southern-style dishes or with breakfast items. To store leftovers, place in an airtight container or freeze individually wrapped biscuits.
Keyword biscuits, Cathead Biscuits, Comfort Food, homemade biscuits, Southern cuisine