Grandma’s Country-Style KFC Biscuits: The Ultimate Homemade Southern Biscuit Recipe
Few recipes capture the heart of Southern comfort like Grandma’s Country-Style KFC Biscuits—those iconic, buttery, flaky layers that melt in your mouth and fill your home with the nostalgic aroma of generations past. These biscuits combine the rustic charm of old-fashioned farmhouse baking with the irresistible appeal of the classic KFC-style biscuit. With a tender crumb, golden top, and perfect rise, this recipe revives the flavors that made grandma’s kitchen unforgettable.
Whether served at breakfast, alongside a Sunday supper, or paired with fried chicken, these biscuits bring warmth, tradition, and irresistible Southern flavor to every table.
Why These Country-Style KFC Biscuits Stand Above the Rest
These homemade biscuits are beloved for more than just their taste—they embody heritage, comfort, and versatility. Here’s why this recipe deserves a place in your kitchen:
Authentic Southern Texture
Crispy edges and a soft, airy interior make every bite as satisfying as the last.
Inspired by the Famous KFC Biscuit
Enjoy the same signature flavor with the freshness and purity of homemade baking.
Perfect for All Dietary Needs
With gluten-free, vegan, low-carb, and sugar-free adaptations, this recipe suits every lifestyle.
Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor
Using pantry staples and techniques passed down through generations ensures a biscuit that tastes as comforting as grandma intended.
Ingredients for Homemade KFC-Style Biscuits
To re-create this beloved classic, gather the following:
Essential Ingredients
- All-purpose flour
- Baking powder
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Butter (cold and cubed)
- Buttermilk
- Optional: Honey or sugar for subtle sweetness
Optional Substitutions
- Vegan: Plant-based butter + plant milk mixed with vinegar
- Gluten-free: 1:1 gluten-free flour blend
- Low carb: Almond flour blend + baking binder
- Sugar-free: Omit sugar or use alternatives like monk fruit
These ingredients create biscuits that rise perfectly, stay tender, and deliver that classic buttery flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Southern Biscuits
Follow these steps to achieve fluffy, golden biscuits worthy of grandma’s praise:
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 450°F (232°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for even browning.
2. Combine Your Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together:
- Flour
- Baking powder
- Baking soda
- Salt
This creates the foundation of your biscuit’s structure.
3. Cut in the Cold Butter
Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, work the butter into the dry mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Cold butter is essential for flaky layers.
4. Add the Buttermilk
Pour in buttermilk (plus honey if using) and stir gently until the dough just comes together. Avoid overmixing.
5. Fold the Dough for Flaky Layers
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and shape into a rectangle. Fold in half and gently flatten. Repeat 4–5 times to create signature layers.
6. Cut the Biscuits
Use a round biscuit cutter, pressing straight down without twisting. Twisting seals edges and prevents rising.
7. Bake to Golden Perfection
Place biscuits on your baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the tops are beautifully golden.
8. Serve Warm
Brush with melted butter if desired and enjoy these soft, fluffy biscuits fresh from the oven.
Expert Tips for Biscuit-Making Success
Use Cold Butter
Colder butter equals better steam pockets, which create flakier biscuits.
Handle the Dough Lightly
Minimal handling ensures tender texture.
Don’t Twist the Cutter
Push straight down for a better rise.
Chill the Dough Before Baking
If your kitchen is warm, refrigerate the dough for 10 minutes before cutting.
For Vegan Biscuits
Combine plant milk with 1 tbsp vinegar to mimic buttermilk tang.
Variations and Creative Twists
Cheesy Country-Style Biscuits
Add shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack for extra richness.
Honey-Glazed KFC Biscuits
Brush tops with melted butter + honey mixture.
Herb-Infused Biscuits
Mix in rosemary, thyme, or chives for savory depth.
Air Fryer KFC Biscuits
Cook at 375°F for 7–9 minutes for a quick alternative.
KFC Cheese-Topped Biscuits
Sprinkle cheese on top during the final minutes of baking.
Serving Suggestions for Every Occasion
These biscuits pair effortlessly with:
- Fried chicken
- Country gravy
- Sausage gravy
- Honey butter
- Homemade jam
- Biscuits and breakfast sandwiches
- Fresh green salads
- Southern-style soups and stews
Versatile and flavorful, they complete any meal from brunch to dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these biscuits without buttermilk?
Yes! Mix regular milk with 1 tbsp of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for 5 minutes.
How can I make healthier biscuits?
Use whole wheat flour, reduce butter, or opt for sugar substitutes.
Can I freeze the dough?
Absolutely—freeze unbaked biscuits and bake straight from the freezer.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
You can, but butter provides superior flavor and flakiness.
Final Thoughts
Grandma’s Country-Style KFC Biscuits are more than a recipe—they are a cherished tradition passed down through family kitchens, filled with memories, warmth, and love. Whether you follow the classic method or add your personal twist, these biscuits will always bring comfort and joy to any table. So roll up your sleeves and bring home the timeless magic of homemade Southern biscuits.