Simple Angel Biscuits Recipe – Soft, Fluffy & Easy Homemade Biscuits

If you’re looking for the perfect homemade biscuit recipe, these Simple Angel Biscuits are exactly what you need. Light, fluffy, buttery, and slightly tangy, angel biscuits combine the best qualities of traditional biscuits and dinner rolls.

This recipe is incredibly easy to follow and delivers bakery-quality results every time. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, dinner, or a holiday gathering, these biscuits are guaranteed to impress.

What Are Angel Biscuits?

Angel biscuits are a unique type of biscuit that uses yeast, baking powder, and baking soda. This combination creates a soft, airy texture while still keeping the classic biscuit flavor.

Unlike regular biscuits, angel biscuits:

• Rise higher and stay fluffy longer
• Have a slightly chewy, bread-like texture
• Can be made ahead of time and refrigerated

They’re the perfect balance between a biscuit and a dinner roll.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• ✅ Easy to make with simple ingredients
• ✅ Soft, fluffy, and buttery texture
• ✅ Perfect for any meal
• ✅ Great for beginners
• ✅ Freezer-friendly dough

Ingredients for Angel Biscuits

To make these soft homemade angel biscuits, you’ll need:

Main Ingredients

• 4 ½ teaspoons (2 packets) active dry yeast
• 3 tablespoons warm water (110°F / 43°C)
• 5 cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup sugar
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ cup cold butter
• ½ cup cold shortening
• 2 cups buttermilk

For Baking

• Extra flour (for shaping)
• 3 tablespoons melted butter

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine the yeast and warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy. This step ensures your biscuits will rise properly.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:

• Flour
• Sugar
• Salt
• Baking powder
• Baking soda

Make sure everything is evenly combined.

3. Cut in the Butter and Shortening

Add the cold butter and shortening (cut into small cubes). Use your fingers, a pastry cutter, or a fork to mix until the texture resembles coarse crumbs.

👉 Tip: Keep the butter cold for flaky layers.

4. Make the Dough

Mix the activated yeast into the buttermilk, then pour it into the dry ingredients. Stir until a soft dough forms.

Gently knead the dough just until all ingredients are combined—do not overwork it.

5. Create Layers

Lightly flour your work surface and:

• Press the dough into a 1-inch thick rectangle
• Fold it in half
• Turn it 90 degrees
• Press again

Repeat this process 2–3 times to create flaky layers.

6. Cut the Biscuits

Use a 2-inch round cutter to cut out biscuits.

⚠️ Important: Press straight down—do NOT twist the cutter. Twisting can prevent the biscuits from rising properly.

Place biscuits close together in a greased baking pan or cast iron skillet.

7. Let the Dough Rise

Cover the pan with plastic wrap and let the biscuits rise at room temperature for about 1 hour.

8. Bake the Biscuits

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Brush the tops with melted butter and bake for 16–18 minutes, or until golden brown.

9. Serve and Enjoy

Let the biscuits cool for about 10 minutes before serving.

Serve warm with:

• Butter
• Honey
• Jam
• Gravy

Tips for Perfect Angel Biscuits

• Use cold butter and shortening for better texture
• Don’t overmix the dough
• Let the dough rise fully for maximum fluffiness
• Bake biscuits close together for softer sides
• Brush with butter immediately after baking for extra flavor

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Storing

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days
• Refrigerate for up to 5 days

Freezing

• Freeze unbaked biscuits after cutting
• Bake directly from frozen (add a few extra minutes)

Make Ahead

You can refrigerate the dough overnight and bake fresh the next day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make angel biscuits without buttermilk?

Yes, you can substitute with milk + 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice.

Why didn’t my biscuits rise?

Possible reasons:

• Yeast was inactive
• Water was too hot or too cold
• Dough didn’t rest long enough

Can I use only butter instead of shortening?

Yes, but shortening helps create a softer texture.

Final Thoughts

These Simple Angel Biscuits are the ultimate comfort food—soft, fluffy, and full of rich flavor. Whether you’re making them for a weekend breakfast or a special dinner, they’re sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Give this recipe a try and enjoy warm, homemade biscuits straight from the oven!