Traditional Homemade Biscuits

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 15 min
🍽 Serves: 8
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There's something wonderfully comforting about the aroma of homemade biscuits wafting through the house. With this traditional recipe, you'll be baking fluffy, golden biscuits that have been a staple in many kitchens for generations. Perfect for breakfast, dinner, or a snack anytime!

Ingredients for Traditional Homemade Biscuits

All-purpose flour is the backbone of our biscuit, providing the structure. Baking powder is your leavening agent, giving the biscuits their rise and fluffiness. A little bit of salt enhances flavor without overpowering. Unsalted butter is key for that rich, flaky texture — using it cold is crucial. Finally, whole milk brings everything together with a bit of richness and the right amount of moisture.

Tips & Tricks

  • For extra flaky biscuits, refrigerate the cut-out dough for 10 minutes before baking.
  • If you don't have a round cutter, a drinking glass works in a pinch!
  • Don't skip the parchment paper; it helps prevent the bottoms from browning too quickly.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these biscuits with a hearty sausage gravy for a classic Southern breakfast. For a lighter option, enjoy them with clotted cream and a dollop of strawberry preserves. They’re also wonderful as a side with a steaming bowl of soup or stew.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use salted butter instead?
Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to balance the flavors.
What if I don't have whole milk?
2% milk can be used as a substitute, though the biscuits might be slightly less rich.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze for longer storage.

Traditional Homemade Biscuits Recipe Walkthrough

First things first, preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). This ensures it's hot and ready when your biscuits are prepped, which is crucial for that initial rise. While the oven is heating, grab a large mixing bowl. Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt — this is your dry mix.

Next, add the cold diced butter into the flour mixture. You can use a pastry cutter if you have one, but your fingertips work just as well. The goal is to work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. Think pea-sized bits — this is what gives the biscuits a flaky texture.

Now, gradually stir in the milk. You want to mix it just until the dough comes together. Over-mixing is a common pitfall that leads to tough biscuits, so resist the urge to keep stirring.

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead it 3-4 times until it’s smooth. We’re talking gentle here — treat it like a delicate flower. Then roll out the dough to about a 1-inch thickness.

Using a 2.5-inch round cutter, cut out your biscuits. Try to press straight down without twisting to help them rise evenly. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, giving them a bit of space to expand.

Bake in your preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they’re beautifully golden on top. Once baked, let them cool slightly on a wire rack before diving in. Serve warm, slathered in butter or topped with your favorite jam.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Simple ingredients you likely already have on hand.
  • Quick prep time — from pantry to plate in under 30 minutes.
  • Versatile enough to pair with sweet or savory dishes.
  • No fancy equipment needed, just good old-fashioned elbow grease.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold, diced)
3/4 cup whole milk

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the cold, diced butter into the flour mixture, using a pastry cutter or your fingertips to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Gradually stir in the milk, mixing just until the dough comes together.
5. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it 3-4 times until smooth.
6. Roll out the dough to a 1-inch thickness and cut out biscuits with a 2.5-inch round cutter.
7. Place the biscuits onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown on top.
9. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

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