Why are your homemade buttermilk biscuits browning on bottom and not top?

There are a few reasons why your homemade buttermilk biscuits might be browning on the bottom and not the top:

1. Oven Temperature:

* Too High: If your oven is too hot, the bottom of the biscuits will cook faster than the top, leading to browning. Check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer.

* Uneven Heat Distribution: An oven with uneven heat distribution can also cause the biscuits to brown on the bottom faster. Rotate the baking sheet halfway through baking to ensure even cooking.

2. Baking Sheet:

* Dark Baking Sheet: Darker baking sheets absorb more heat, potentially causing the bottom of the biscuits to brown faster. Use a light-colored baking sheet or a silicone baking mat.

* Hot Baking Sheet: A preheated baking sheet will transfer heat more quickly, leading to faster browning on the bottom. Let the baking sheet cool slightly before placing the biscuits on it.

3. Baking Time and Placement:

* Overbaking: If you bake the biscuits too long, they will brown excessively on the bottom. Check them frequently towards the end of the baking time.

* Placement in the Oven: If the biscuits are placed on a rack that's too close to the bottom of the oven, they will brown more quickly on the bottom.

4. The Biscuits Themselves:

* Too Much Butter or Fat: Excess butter or fat can create a barrier on the top of the biscuits, preventing them from browning as quickly. Use the recipe's specified amount of butter.

* Thin Biscuits: Thin biscuits will brown more quickly than thicker biscuits.

Here's how to fix the problem:

* Adjust Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven is properly calibrated and set to the correct temperature (usually 450°F).

* Use a Light-Colored Baking Sheet: Switch to a light-colored baking sheet or a silicone baking mat.

* Pre-Heat Baking Sheet: Pre-heat the baking sheet briefly, but allow it to cool slightly before placing the biscuits on it.

* Rotate Baking Sheet: Rotate the baking sheet halfway through baking to ensure even browning.

* Watch for Doneness: Check the biscuits frequently towards the end of the baking time.

* Use the Correct Amount of Butter: Stick to the recipe's specified amount of butter or fat.

By addressing these potential culprits, you can create beautiful, evenly browned buttermilk biscuits that are perfect in every way.