Step 1: Preheat your oven to a blazing 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent any sticking and ensure a beautiful, even bake.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until they are thoroughly combined. This even distribution is vital for uniform leavening.
Step 3: Add the very cold, cubed unsalted butter to your dry mixture. Using a pastry cutter, your fingers, or even two knives, quickly work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. There should still be some visible pea-sized pieces of butter – these are what create those incredible flaky layers!
Step 4: Pour in the buttermilk. With a spoon or spatula, stir gently until the ingredients are just combined. The dough will still be a bit sticky and shaggy, and that's perfectly normal. Avoid the temptation to overmix, as too much handling can develop gluten, resulting in tough biscuits.
Step 5: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead it just a few times (no more than 5-6 quick folds) until it barely comes together into a cohesive mass. Pat the dough into a uniform rectangle about 1-inch thick.
Step 6: Using a round biscuit cutter (or the rim of a glass), press straight down to cut out biscuit rounds. Do not twist the cutter, as this can seal the edges and inhibit rising. Place the cut biscuits on your prepared baking sheet, allowing them to touch slightly if you desire softer sides and a taller rise.
Step 7: For that irresistible golden-brown finish, lightly brush the tops of your biscuits with a little extra buttermilk before placing them in the oven.
Step 8: Bake in your preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the tops are beautifully golden brown and the biscuits have risen high and are cooked through.
Step 9: Remove the biscuits from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. They are undeniably best when enjoyed warm. Serve them split open with a generous pat of butter, your favorite fruit jam, or as a perfect partner to a comforting dish like Hearty Sausage, Gravy, and Biscuit Pie.
Step 10: For extra richness, brush with melted butter immediately after removing them from the oven.