Keto Buttermilk Biscuits
Buttermilk biscuits, with their flaky layers and buttery richness, are a beloved classic in many households. For those adhering to a ketogenic or low-carb diet, the traditional recipe, laden with flour and high in carbs, presents a challenge. However, this Keto Buttermilk Biscuits recipe offers a delectable alternative that maintains the essence of the classic biscuit while fitting perfectly into a low-carb lifestyle. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of preparing these biscuits, from ingredient selection to baking and storage. Detailed instructions, ingredient measurements, and nutritional information are provided to ensure you achieve perfect results.
Ingredients
For the Biscuits:
Almond Flour: 2 cups. A low-carb alternative to traditional flour, providing a nutty flavor and a slightly crumbly texture.
Coconut Flour: 1/4 cup. Adds structure and helps absorb moisture, balancing the almond flour’s texture.
Baking Powder: 1 tablespoon. Provides the rise and lightness needed for the biscuits.
Salt: 1/2 teaspoon. Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
Unsalted Butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick). Adds richness and flavor; should be cold for best results.
Eggs: 2 large. Provides structure and helps bind the ingredients together.
Buttermilk: 1/2 cup. Adds tanginess and moisture. Use a keto-friendly buttermilk substitute if necessary.
Apple Cider Vinegar: 1 teaspoon. Helps activate the baking powder and adds a tangy flavor.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). A properly preheated oven ensures even baking and helps the biscuits rise properly.
Prepare Baking Sheet:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This prevents sticking and ensures easy cleanup.
Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of almond flour, 1/4 cup of coconut flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. This mixture provides the base for your biscuit dough.
Cut in the Butter:
Cut 1/2 cup of cold, unsalted butter into small cubes. Add the butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or two forks, cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. The key is to work quickly to prevent the butter from melting.
Mix Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs, 1/2 cup of buttermilk, and 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar. The eggs and buttermilk provide moisture and richness, while the apple cider vinegar helps with leavening.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of the biscuits.
Form the Dough:
Turn the dough out onto a lightly almond-floured surface. Gently pat it into a 1-inch thick rectangle. Use a biscuit cutter or a glass to cut out biscuits. You can also use a knife to cut the dough into squares if a cutter is not available.
Place on Baking Sheet:
Arrange the cut biscuits on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. For softer sides, place the biscuits close together; for crispier edges, space them further apart.
Bake the Biscuits:
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking.
Cool the Biscuits:
Allow the biscuits to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents them from becoming soggy on the bottom.
Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the biscuits warm or at room temperature. They can be enjoyed plain, with butter, or as a side to your favorite keto-friendly meals.
Nutritional Information
Per Biscuit (assuming 8 biscuits per batch):
Calories: 180
Total Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 90mg
Sodium: 290mg
Total Carbohydrates: 8g
Dietary Fiber: 4g
Net Carbohydrates: 4g
Protein: 6g
WW Points
Based on the WW (Weight Watchers) points system, each Keto Buttermilk Biscuit is approximately 5 SmartPoints. This calculation considers the low-carb and high-fat content of the ingredients, which is typical of keto recipes.
Useful Information
Choosing Flours: Almond flour and coconut flour are staple ingredients in keto baking. Almond flour provides a rich, nutty flavor, while coconut flour adds texture and absorbs moisture.
Buttermilk Substitute: If you cannot find keto-friendly buttermilk, you can make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to 1/2 cup of unsweetened almond milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken.
Cold Butter: Keeping the butter cold helps to create a flakier texture in the biscuits. It should be cut into the flour mixture while still cold.
Tips for Success
Handling the Dough: Handle the dough as little as possible to prevent the biscuits from becoming tough. Gently pat the dough and avoid overworking it.
Cutting the Biscuits: For best results, use a sharp biscuit cutter or glass to ensure clean cuts. This helps the biscuits rise evenly.
Adjusting Texture: If the dough is too sticky, add a small amount of almond flour. If it’s too dry, add a splash more buttermilk.
Storing and Freezing
Refrigeration: Store leftover biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Refrigeration can extend their shelf life for up to 1 week.
Freezing: To freeze, place the cooled biscuits in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven for best results.
Conclusion
This Keto Buttermilk Biscuits recipe provides a delightful, low-carb alternative to traditional biscuits, making it perfect for those on a ketogenic diet. By using almond flour, coconut flour, and a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy the same flaky, buttery texture of classic biscuits while staying within keto guidelines. This detailed guide ensures that you have all the information needed to make perfect keto biscuits, from ingredient selection to baking and storage. Enjoy these biscuits as a satisfying side or a standalone treat, and savor the rich flavors of a keto-friendly classic