Ingredients
1/2 cup hot water (100 to 110°F)
1 (1/4 ounce) active dry yeast
1 teaspoon sugar
5 1/2 cups Lilly white yeast flour (or all-purpose flour)
1/4 cup sugar
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
1/2 cup cold shortening, cubed
2 cups buttermilk
1/4 cup melted butter
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Combine the hot water, yeast, and 1 teaspoon sugar in a small bowl.
Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes, or until foamy.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the flour, 1/4 cup sugar, and salt.
Use a pastry blender or two forks to cut the butter and shortening into the flour mixture until crumbly.
Step 3: Mix the Dough
Add the yeast mixture and buttermilk to the dry ingredients.
Stir until the dry ingredients are moistened and form a dough.
Step 4: Refrigerate the Dough
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 2 hours, or up to 5 days for convenience.
Step 5: Roll and Cut the Dough
Preheat your oven to 400°F.
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it lightly 3 to 4 times.
If the dough is sticky, sprinkle it with a bit more flour.
Roll the dough into a 3/4-inch thick circle. Fold it in half and roll again. Repeat once for flakier layers.
Cut the dough using a 2 1/2-inch or 3-inch cookie cutter.
Step 6: Arrange the Cookies
Place the cookies in a greased cast iron skillet (10 or 12 inches) or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Make sure the cookies are touching to help them rise evenly.
Brush the tops of the cookies with half of the melted butter.
Step 7: Bake and Finish
Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown.
Remove from the oven and brush the cookies with the remaining melted butter.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with honey, jam, or whipped butter.
Pair with savory dishes like fried chicken or gravy for a Southern-style meal.
Tips for the Best Angels Cookies
Cold Ingredients: Use cold butter and shortening to achieve flaky layers.
Refrigeration: Letting the dough chill enhances the texture and flavor.
Layering Technique: Folding the dough ensures buttery, flaky layers in each cookie.
Conclusion
These Homemade Angels Cookies are the epitome of buttery, fluffy perfection. Whether enjoyed as a snack, breakfast treat, or side dish, they’re sure to impress with their light texture and rich flavor. Make a batch today and experience the comfort of these classic cookies!