While most biscuits rely on a combination of baking soda and buttermilk—or possibly baking powder and sweet milk—to help them rise, angel biscuits call on higher powers. They add yeast. Which is why ...

1. Dissolve the yeast in ¼ cup of the water. Stir in the sugar (or honey) and let stand until foamy, 5 to 10 minutes. In a large bowl, combine the yeast mixture, remaining water, oil, salt, anise, ...