The Best Flaky Homemade Yeast Biscuits

Step 1

In a small bowl, mix together the water, sugar, and yeast. Allow to sit for about 5 minutes or until the yeast becomes foamy. This will help to activate the yeast and make sure it hasn't gone bad or expired.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Add in the yeast mixture and knead together for 1-2 minutes. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and allow to rest in a warm spot for 60 minutes.

Step 3

Once the dough has rested, roll it out into a rectangle with a height that is three times its width.

Step 4

Use the rolling pin to bang the cold butter until it is flattened into a roughly rectangular shape. Place the butter across the middle third of your dough rectangle. Fold the sides of the dough over the butter as if you were folding a letter. The butter should now be completely encased in the dough.

Step 5

Roll the dough back into a rectangle that is about the same size as your original rectangle. Again, fold the sides over the middle third of the dough as if you were folding a letter. Repeat 4-5 times.

Step 6

After you roll the dough into its final rectangle, cut it into six equal-sized rectangles. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet with at least 2-3 inches in-between them. Cover with plastic wrap and place in a warm place. Let rise until double in size, about an hour.

Step 7

When ready to bake, heat the oven to 425F. Remove the plastic wrap and bake for 12-15 minutes or until puffed and golden brown on top.