Grandma Haynes' Biscuits
Grandma Haynes' Biscuits are traditional homemade treats with a rich, flaky texture, perfect for breakfast or as a comforting snack, loved by all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix 1/5 can lye in 6 cups cold water and dissolve in an enamel pan.
- Put 1 pound lard or other grease into the lye water and boil until fairly thick (like candy).
- Add 2 tablespoons ammonia water and 1 tablespoon borax to the mixture.
- When cool, beat well until white.
- Harden the mixture for 2 weeks before using.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter biscuit, consider substituting half of the shortening with Greek yogurt or butter. If you don't have sweet milk, you can use buttermilk or mix regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar for a similar effect. Ensure you mix the ingredients gently to maintain the fluffiness of the biscuits. For an extra flavor boost, try adding herbs or cheese to the dough.
Serving Suggestions
These biscuits are perfect served warm with butter and honey or alongside a hearty bowl of gravy. They also complement dishes like Mom's Mashed Potatoes and can be enjoyed with jams or fruit preserves for breakfast. For a delightful dessert, try pairing them with Quick Cherry Crunch for a sweet finish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep them fresh longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through, which helps restore their original texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Haynes' Biscuits contains roughly 1221 calories, with 6g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 114g fat. It is a good source of iron (15% of the Daily Value) and protein (12% of the Daily Value).
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 a different type of fat instead of shortening?
Yes, you can substitute shortening with an equal amount of butter or lard for a richer flavor. If you're looking for a healthier option, using coconut oil or margarine can also work, though the texture may vary slightly.
What can I do if my biscuits are too dry?
If your biscuits turn out dry, it may be due to overmixing or too much flour. To salvage them, you can slice them in half and spread some butter or gravy inside. Adding a drizzle of honey or jam can also help enhance the moisture and flavor.
How can I make these biscuits ahead of time?
You can prepare the dough in advance and freeze it. Shape the biscuits and place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for freshly baked biscuits at a moment's notice.
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).