Homemade Biscuit Recipe (with Video)

Homemade Biscuit Recipe: Who doesn’t love a warm, flaky biscuit fresh out of the oven? Homemade biscuits are a comforting classic that beats any store-bought version hands down. Whether you’re serving them with butter and jam for breakfast, as a side with a hearty dinner, or just enjoying one as a snack, they’re versatile and oh-so-delicious.

This step-by-step guide will walk you through everything you need to know about making perfect homemade biscuits. Don’t worry if you’re new to baking—this recipe is simple, and with a little practice, you’ll be a biscuit pro in no time!

Tools and Equipment You’ll Need

Before diving into the recipe, gather the following tools and equipment to ensure a smooth process:

Essentials:

• Mixing bowls (one large, one medium).
• Measuring cups and spoons.
• A pastry cutter or two forks.
• Rolling pin.
• Biscuit cutter or a round glass.

Optional:

• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat.
• Food scale for precise measurements.
• Pastry brush for brushing the tops.

Ingredients for Homemade Biscuits

For light, fluffy biscuits, you’ll need just a handful of ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for rolling).
• 1 tablespoon baking powder.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt.
• 1/4 cup cold butter (or shortening, cubed).
• 3/4 cup buttermilk (or milk, chilled).
• Optional toppings: Melted butter, herbs, or a sprinkle of sugar.

Preparing Your Kitchen

Preparation is key! Start by setting up your workstation:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven is essential for biscuits to rise properly.
2. Gather all your ingredients and tools within arm’s reach.
3. Lightly flour your countertop or a large cutting board for rolling out the dough.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Biscuits

Step 1: Measuring the Ingredients

Precision matters! Use measuring cups for dry ingredients and a liquid measuring cup for milk or buttermilk. Level off the flour with a knife to avoid packing it down, which could make the biscuits dense.

Step 2: Mixing the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures the leavening agents are evenly distributed, leading to consistent rise and flavor.

Step 3: Cutting in the Fat

Add the cold butter or shortening to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial for flaky layers in the biscuits. Don’t overwork it—the small bits of butter will create steam pockets as they bake.

Step 4: Adding the Liquid

Slowly pour in the chilled buttermilk while stirring gently. Mix just until the dough comes together; over-mixing will result in tough biscuits. If the dough seems too sticky, sprinkle a little extra flour.

Step 5: Rolling and Cutting the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Knead it gently 2-3 times to bring it together. Roll it out to about 1/2-inch thickness and use a biscuit cutter to cut out rounds. Avoid twisting the cutter; this can seal the edges and prevent the biscuits from rising properly.

Step 6: Baking the Biscuits

Place the biscuits on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they’re slightly touching for soft sides or spaced apart for crisp edges. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown. Brush the tops with melted butter for extra flavor.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

1. Over-mixing the dough: Keep handling to a minimum.
2. Using warm ingredients: Always use cold butter and milk for flaky layers.
3. Skipping the resting period: Letting the dough rest for a few minutes can improve texture.

Variations of the Recipe

• Cheese Biscuits: Add shredded cheddar to the dough.
• Sweet Biscuits: Mix in a tablespoon of sugar and a pinch of cinnamon.
• Herb Biscuits: Incorporate chopped rosemary or thyme.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your biscuits with:

• Butter, honey, or jam for breakfast.
• Gravy for a Southern-style treat.
• As a side for soups or stews.

Storing and Reheating Biscuits

• Store cooled biscuits in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to refresh their texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.

FAQs about Homemade Biscuit Recipe

1. What ingredients do I need for a homemade biscuit recipe?

For basic homemade biscuits, you’ll need all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, butter, and milk. Some recipes might call for sugar or buttermilk for extra flavor and texture.

2. How do I ensure my biscuits are fluffy?

To get fluffy biscuits, make sure your baking powder is fresh, and handle the dough as little as possible. Overworking the dough can develop gluten, making the biscuits tough.

3. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour to make your biscuits a bit healthier. Keep in mind that whole wheat flour absorbs more liquid, so you may need to adjust the milk quantity.

4. Why do my biscuits come out flat?

Flat biscuits often result from old baking powder, not using enough leavening agent, or rolling the dough too thin. Ensure your baking powder is active and follow the recipe’s measurements carefully.

5. Can I make biscuits without a biscuit cutter?

Absolutely! If you don’t have a biscuit cutter, you can use a sharp knife to cut the dough into squares or use a drinking glass to cut rounds. Just make sure whatever you use is floured slightly to prevent sticking.

6. How long do homemade biscuits stay fresh?

Homemade biscuits are best enjoyed fresh but will keep for up to 2 days in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months.

7. Are there any tips for reheating biscuits?

To reheat biscuits, wrap them in foil and warm in an oven preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes. This helps to keep them moist and tender.

8. Can I add extras to my biscuit dough?

Yes! Feel free to experiment by adding cheese, herbs, or even a bit of garlic powder for savory biscuits. For a sweeter treat, sprinkle in some cinnamon or sugar.

Conclusion

Homemade biscuits are the perfect combination of simplicity and satisfaction. By following this guide, you’ll achieve biscuits that are flaky, buttery, and utterly delicious. Try them today and impress your family and friends with your baking skills!