1-First Steps: Preheat and Mix: Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, whisk together the 2 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, and 1 teaspoon salt to form the base of your dough.

2-First Steps: Preheat and Mix: Add the 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cubed and very cold, and cut it into the dry ingredients until coarse crumbs appear. If using a food processor, transfer the mixture to a bowl afterward. This step is crucial for achieving those airy layers.

3-Mixing and Shaping: Create a well in the center and add 1 cup of cold buttermilk along with 2 teaspoons honey. Gently fold until the dough begins to come together, being careful not to overmix.

4-Mixing and Shaping: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently shape it. Flatten into a 3/4-inch-thick rectangle, fold both sides to the center, rotate 90 degrees, and repeat the process three more times. Finally, flatten to 3/4-inch thickness and cut into 2.5- or 3-inch rounds without twisting the cutter.

5-Baking and Finishing: Arrange the biscuits close together on a cast iron skillet or lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with the remaining 2 tablespoons of cold buttermilk and bake for 18-20 minutes until golden brown.

6-Baking and Finishing: For an optional touch, brush the warm biscuits with a mixture of 2 tablespoons melted butter and 1 tablespoon honey. The preparation time includes 15 minutes prep and 20 minutes cook, totaling about 35 minutes.