Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This biscuit recipe is easy to make and results in light, buttery biscuits that are full of flavor. The ingredients are simple, and the process is quick, allowing you to enjoy fresh, warm biscuits in no time. Whether you add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit for a twist or keep them classic, these biscuits will quickly become a family favorite.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold and cut into small cubes)
3/4 cup whole milk (or buttermilk for richer flavor)
2 tablespoons sugar (optional, for a slight sweetness)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven:

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

2. Prepare the dry ingredients:

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar (if using).

3. Cut in the butter:

Add the cold butter cubes to the dry ingredients.
Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized pieces of butter.

4. Add the milk:

Pour in the milk (or buttermilk) and stir gently with a spoon until just combined. The dough should be slightly sticky. Be careful not to overmix the dough.

5. Shape the biscuits:

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times until it comes together. Don’t overwork the dough, as this can result in tough biscuits.
Pat the dough into a 1-inch thick rectangle. Use a biscuit cutter or a glass to cut out the biscuits. Press straight down without twisting to ensure they rise evenly.

6. Bake:

Place the biscuits on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they’re close together for softer sides, or spaced apart for a crispier finish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.

7. Serve:

Remove the biscuits from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
Serve warm with butter, jam, or any topping of your choice.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8 biscuits
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

Cheese biscuits: Add 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the dough for a cheesy twist.
Herb biscuits: Stir in 1-2 teaspoons of dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley for a flavorful variation.
Sweet biscuits: Add 1/4 cup of sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the dough for a sweeter biscuit perfect for breakfast.
Spicy biscuits: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover biscuits can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days.
Freezing: To freeze biscuits, wrap them in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Yes, you can use margarine in place of butter, but the flavor and texture may be slightly different. Butter gives a richer, flakier biscuit.

2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, let the dough come to room temperature for a few minutes and then proceed with cutting and baking.

3. Can I freeze the biscuit dough?

Yes, you can freeze the dough. After cutting the biscuits, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

4. Can I use almond flour or gluten-free flour for these biscuits?

Yes, you can substitute regular flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend. Keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly. You might need to add a binder like xanthan gum if using gluten-free flour.

5. Can I add other ingredients like chocolate chips or fruit?

Yes, feel free to add chocolate chips, dried fruit, or nuts to the dough for a customized flavor. Just be sure to fold them in gently to avoid overworking the dough.

6. How do I prevent the biscuits from being too dense?

To keep biscuits light and fluffy, be careful not to overwork the dough. Mix until just combined, and don’t over-knead. Also, make sure your baking powder is fresh and active.

7. How do I make these biscuits spicier?

For a spicy twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper, chili powder, or finely chopped jalapeños to the dough for an extra kick.

8. Can I make these biscuits without an egg?

Yes, this recipe does not require eggs. The butter and milk provide enough moisture and structure for the biscuits.

9. Can I use buttermilk instead of regular milk?

Yes, using buttermilk instead of regular milk will give the biscuits a richer, tangier flavor and a slightly fluffier texture. It’s an excellent option for a more traditional biscuit flavor.

10. Can I serve these biscuits with gravy?

Absolutely! Biscuits and gravy are a classic combination. Serve these biscuits with a homemade gravy for a comforting breakfast or brunch.

Conclusion

These homemade biscuits are the perfect blend of light, fluffy, and buttery, with endless possibilities for customization. Whether you enjoy them as a side to your main meal or as a snack with a touch of jam, these biscuits will quickly become a household favorite. With simple ingredients, a quick prep time, and endless variations, this recipe is perfect for any occasion!

Biscuit Recipe

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Author: Lisa
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 8 biscuits
Category: Snack
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This simple biscuit recipe results in light, buttery biscuits with a crispy exterior and soft interior. Perfect for a snack or as a side to any meal, and easily customizable with various add-ins.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold and cut into small cubes)
3/4 cup whole milk (or buttermilk for richer flavor)
2 tablespoons sugar (optional, for a slight sweetness)

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar (if using).
Add the cold butter cubes to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized pieces of butter.
Pour in the milk (or buttermilk) and stir gently with a spoon until just combined. The dough should be slightly sticky. Be careful not to overmix the dough.
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times until it comes together. Pat the dough into a 1-inch thick rectangle. Use a biscuit cutter or a glass to cut out the biscuits, pressing straight down without twisting.
Place the biscuits on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they’re close together for softer sides or spaced apart for a crispier finish. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with butter, jam, or your favorite topping.

Notes

For cheese biscuits, add 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese to the dough.For herb biscuits, stir in 1-2 teaspoons of dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley.Add 1/4 cup sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for a sweet biscuit.For a spicy twist, add cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños.To prevent density, don’t overwork the dough and make sure your baking powder is fresh.