1-First Step: Mix the seasoned flour Grab a shallow bowl and whisk together 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon baking powder.

2-Second Step: Mix the buttermilk dip In another shallow bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups buttermilk, 2 teaspoons hot sauce, and 2 eggs.

3-Third Step: Season and dry the steaks Pat the cube steaks dry with paper towels. Season them with the remaining 1 teaspoon salt and 1 teaspoon pepper, then let them sit for 5 minutes. Pat them dry again.

4-Fourth Step: Bread the steaks Dredge each steak in the flour mixture, then dip it into the buttermilk mixture, then back into the flour mixture. Press the flour in firmly so every part is covered. Do not rush this step. Once the steaks are breaded, let them rest for 10 minutes.

5-Fifth Step: Heat the oven and oil Preheat the oven to 225 to 250 degrees F. Heat 1 cup vegetable oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat until it is about 1/4-inch deep.

6-Sixth Step: Fry the steaks Carefully place two steaks at a time in the hot oil. Fry them for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until they are golden brown and crisp. Try not to flip them more than once. Move the fried steaks to the warm oven while you cook the second batch.

7-Seventh Step: Make the cream gravy Pour off the excess grease from the skillet, but leave 4 tablespoons grease in the pan. Whisk in 4 tablespoons flour and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until it turns golden. Slowly add 2 to 3 cups whole milk mixed with 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream, whisking constantly. Simmer for 5 to 7 minutes until smooth and thick enough to coat a spoon. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the gravy gets too thick, add a splash more milk. If it is too thin, let it cook a bit longer.

8-Final Step: Serve and enjoy Place the crispy steaks on plates and spoon the cream gravy over the top. Serve right away while everything is hot and the coating is still crisp.