Basic Biscuits
Golden, flaky biscuits with a tender crumb, perfect for breakfast or as a side. Their buttery flavor and light texture make them a versatile addition to any meal, appealing to both casual cooks and seasoned bakers seeking a classic Southern treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut shortening into the sifted self-rising flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Blend in enough milk to make a soft dough.
- Turn out the dough onto a lightly floured board or pastry cloth and knead gently for 30 seconds.
- Roll out the dough to 1/2-inch thickness.
- Cut out biscuits using a floured 2-inch biscuit cutter or a sharp knife.
- Place the biscuits on an ungreased baking sheet.
- Bake in a preheated 450°F oven for 10 to 12 minutes or until lightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the shortening with butter. If you prefer a lighter biscuit, use buttermilk instead of regular milk. Make sure to sift your flour to prevent lumps for a smoother dough. Avoid over-kneading to keep the biscuits fluffy. You can also add herbs or cheese for a savory twist, perfect for pairing with your favorite soups.
Serving Suggestions
These biscuits are delightful when served warm with butter and honey. They make an excellent side for breakfast alongside scrambled eggs or bacon. Pair them with a bowl of hearty soup for a comforting meal, or enjoy them with a sweet jam. They also complement dishes like the Orange-Cranberry Cheese Cake for a delightful brunch spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes until warm. This helps restore their original texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Basic Biscuits contains roughly 337 calories, with 5g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of self-rising flour?
Yes, you can use all-purpose flour, but you'll need to add baking powder and salt to mimic self-rising flour. For every cup of all-purpose flour, add 1.5 teaspoons of baking powder and 0.5 teaspoon of salt.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is sticky, gradually add more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable consistency. Be careful not to add too much flour, as this can lead to dense biscuits.
How can I make my biscuits fluffier?
To achieve fluffier biscuits, make sure not to over-knead the dough and use cold shortening or butter. Additionally, letting the dough rest for a few minutes before rolling it out can help create layers, resulting in a lighter texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).