Name: Cat Head Biscuits
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups All-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups Cake flour; 1 tablespoon Baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon Baking soda; 1 teaspoon Salt; 8 tablespoons Unsalted butter (cut into 1/2-inch pieces and softened); 4 tablespoons Vegetable shortening (cut into 1/2-inch pieces); 1 1/4 cups Buttermilk

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As I think back to my childhood, the warm and comforting aroma of fresh Cat Head Biscuits wafting through the kitchen always takes me back to my grandmother’s home. Every Sunday morning, she would rise before the sun, her flour-dusted apron on, ready to create these fluffy, oversized biscuits. With each bite, you could taste the love and tradition that had been passed down through generations. It wasn’t just about the biscuits; it was about gathering around the table with family, sharing stories, laughter, and the joy that comes from a home-cooked meal. The best part? These biscuits are so easy to make that anyone can share in this experience.

I’ve often found myself in the kitchen, experimenting with variations, but the classic Cat Head Biscuits recipe never fails to bring me back to those cherished moments. Whether it’s a leisurely Sunday brunch or a last-minute dinner side, these biscuits are a staple that never disappoints. They puff up beautifully in the oven and have a delightful golden crust that’s just waiting to be slathered in butter or your favorite jam. Trust me, once you try making these at home, they’ll become your go-to comfort food as well.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
35 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
250 kcal

Protein:
4 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
12 g

Tools Used:
9-inch cake pan

What Makes This Cat Head Biscuits Special

A True Southern Tradition

There’s something special about the tradition of making Cat Head Biscuits. Originating in the Southern United States, these biscuits are named for their size – as big as a cat’s head! They’re the epitome of comfort food and a must-have at any Southern breakfast table. The process of mixing and kneading the dough brings back fond memories of learning from my grandmother, and I cherish every moment spent creating these fluffy delights.

Fluffy and Delicious

The secret to the incredible fluffiness of Cat Head Biscuits lies in the combination of all-purpose and cake flours. This unique blend not only contributes to the light and airy texture but also creates a rich flavor that pairs perfectly with various toppings. Each biscuit rises beautifully in the oven, creating a perfect exterior that gives way to a soft, buttery interior.

Easy and Quick to Make

One of the best things about Cat Head Biscuits is how quick and easy they are to whip up. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have fresh biscuits ready for breakfast or dinner in no time. It’s a fantastic recipe for those busy mornings or when you have unexpected guests.

Versatile Pairing Options

These biscuits are incredibly versatile, making them an excellent addition to any meal. Whether served alongside a hearty soup, a simple salad, or drizzled with honey, the possibilities are endless. They even shine as a base for breakfast sandwiches filled with eggs and cheese!

Perfect for Any Occasion

No family gathering, holiday, or Sunday dinner is complete without a basket of warm Cat Head Biscuits. They bring people together, encourage conversation, and create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Everyone loves to tear off a piece and enjoy them fresh out of the oven!

Great Leftover Potential

Leftover biscuits? No problem! Cat Head Biscuits can be stored in an airtight container for a few days, and they reheat beautifully in the oven. Just a few minutes at a low temperature will bring them back to life, making them an ideal snack or quick breakfast option throughout the week.

Ingredients for Cat Head Biscuits

Creating the perfect Cat Head Biscuits starts with a few key ingredients that work in harmony to deliver that classic Southern flavor. At the heart of this recipe are the flours, which provide structure and fluffiness. The addition of butter and shortening ensures a rich, tender biscuit that’s perfect for slathering with your favorite spread. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving that signature texture and taste that makes these biscuits irresistible.

All-purpose flour: 1 1/2 cups – This versatile flour provides the structure needed for the biscuits and helps them rise beautifully.
Cake flour: 1 1/2 cups – The finer texture of cake flour contributes to the lightness of the biscuits, making them incredibly fluffy.
Baking powder: 1 tablespoon – This leavening agent is essential for helping the biscuits rise and achieve that perfect fluffiness.
Baking soda: 1/2 teaspoon – It helps to create a nice golden color and adds extra lift.
Salt: 1 teaspoon – A crucial ingredient that enhances the flavors of the other ingredients in the dough.
Unsalted butter: 8 tablespoons, cut into 1/2-inch pieces and softened – Adds richness and flavor, while keeping the biscuits tender.
Vegetable shortening: 4 tablespoons, cut into 1/2-inch pieces – Aids in achieving a flaky texture, complementing the butter.
Buttermilk: 1 1/4 cups – This ingredient brings moisture to the dough and contributes to the tangy flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the biscuits.

The Method for Cat Head Biscuits

Making Cat Head Biscuits is a straightforward and rewarding process. With just a few steps, you’ll have warm, fluffy biscuits ready to enjoy. Let’s dive in!

Start by placing the oven rack in the upper-middle position and preheating the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Greasing a 9-inch cake pan will ensure that your biscuits won’t stick.
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This combination of flours and leavening agents will be the foundation for your biscuits.
Next, scatter the pieces of butter and shortening across the top of the flour mixture. Using your fingers, gently rub the fat into the flour until it resembles coarse meal. This step is essential for achieving a flaky texture in the final product.
Stir in the buttermilk until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want to maintain that light, fluffy texture. The dough should be slightly sticky.
To shape your biscuits, spray a 1/2-cup measuring cup with cooking spray. Use it to scoop and drop 6 heaping mounds of dough into the prepared cake pan. For the best presentation, place one mound in the center and the remaining five in a circle surrounding it.
Now, it’s time to bake! Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake until the tops are golden brown, about 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when you’re greeted with a heavenly aroma.
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the biscuits cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before serving. This will help them set and make them easier to remove.
Serve your Cat Head Biscuits warm, with a generous spread of butter or your favorite jam. Enjoy them as a delightful addition to any meal!

Things Worth Knowing

Use cold ingredients: Starting with cold butter and shortening helps create a flakier biscuit. Cold fat doesn’t fully incorporate into the flour, leaving small pockets that steam during baking.
Don’t overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough biscuits. You want them to be light and airy.
Proper baking temperature: Ensuring your oven is preheated to the correct temperature is crucial. If the oven is not hot enough, the biscuits won’t rise as they should.
Cooling time: Letting the biscuits cool in the pan for a few minutes helps them firm up, making it easier to remove them without falling apart.

Make It Your Own

Once you’ve mastered the classic Cat Head Biscuits, consider these tips to customize them to your tastes!

Herbed biscuits: Add some fresh or dried herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for a savory twist.
Cheese lovers: Mix in shredded cheese like cheddar or pepper jack for an extra layer of flavor.
Sweet style: Incorporate a tablespoon of sugar into the dough to create a sweeter biscuit that pairs well with breakfast.
Spicy touch: A pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes can add a kick to your biscuits.
Storage: Store leftover biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
Reheating: To revive leftover biscuits, reheat them in a 325-degree oven until warmed through.
Pairing: Serve with your favorite soups, stews, or salads for a comforting meal any time.

How to Enjoy Cat Head Biscuits

Serving Cat Head Biscuits can turn any meal into a delightful experience. Here are some great ways to enjoy them:

Breakfast delight: Serve them warm with butter and your choice of jam or honey for a perfect start to the day.
Lunch accompaniment: Pair with a hearty soup or a fresh salad to complement your meal.
Southern dinner: Add Cat Head Biscuits as a side dish to fried chicken or pulled pork for that classic Southern comfort.
Casual get-togethers: Bring these biscuits to gatherings; they’re perfect for sharing and always a crowd-pleaser.
Brunch gatherings: Include them in a brunch spread alongside eggs, fruit, and pancakes for a delightful feast.
Seasonal enjoyment: During the holidays, serve them alongside roasted meats and festive sides for a special touch.

FAQ

Cat Head Biscuits are known for their size and fluffy texture. Unlike standard biscuits, which are typically smaller, these are meant to be big and hearty, resembling the size of a cat’s head. Their unique texture comes from a blend of all-purpose and cake flours, ensuring they rise beautifully and have a soft interior. This makes them a perfect choice for a comforting breakfast or a delightful side dish.

Yes, you can freeze Cat Head Biscuits! After baking, allow the biscuits to cool completely. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container or a zip-top bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in a 325-degree oven until warmed through. This way, you can have fresh biscuits any time!

Cat Head Biscuits are incredibly versatile! They can be served warm with butter and honey for breakfast, or paired with soups and stews for lunch or dinner. For a fun twist, try using them to make breakfast sandwiches filled with eggs and cheese. They also make a great side to fried chicken or any hearty meal. Their fluffy texture and rich flavor make them a delightful addition to any table.

To store leftover Cat Head Biscuits, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. To reheat, simply place the biscuits in a preheated oven at 325 degrees until warmed through. This will help maintain their fluffy texture. Enjoy them fresh whenever possible for the best taste!

Conclusion

In conclusion, Cat Head Biscuits are a delightful staple that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. Their fluffy texture and rich flavor make them a must-try for anyone seeking a taste of Southern tradition. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; whether for a cozy breakfast or a delicious dinner side, these biscuits are sure to impress. Don’t miss out on the chance to create lasting memories with this classic dish!