Traditional Homemade Biscuits
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!
Share
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.
Traditional Homemade Biscuits 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 Ideas for Traditional Homemade Biscuits
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 This Traditional Homemade Biscuits Works
- 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.