Hot Crusty Biscuits
Hot crusty biscuits with a tender interior and golden, crunchy crust—perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a side. Easy to make and delightfully satisfying.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift together the flour, cream of tartar, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Cut in the shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the milk and egg; mix until the dough flows around the bowl.
- Knead the dough 5 to 6 times on a floured surface.
- Roll the dough to 1/2-inch thickness.
- Place on an ungreased baking sheet.
- Bake at 450°F for 10 to 12 minutes, or until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter biscuit, use cold butter instead of shortening and cut it in until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. If you don't have cream of tartar, you can substitute it with an equal amount of baking powder. To prevent overmixing, stir just until combined. Serve these biscuits warm for the best texture, and don't forget to brush the tops with melted butter after baking for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These hot crusty biscuits are perfect for breakfast, served with butter and jam, or alongside soups and stews. They pair beautifully with Brown Sugar - Bourbon Peaches With Vanilla Ice Cream for a delightful dessert after a hearty meal. Consider serving them with scrambled eggs or as a base for a breakfast sandwich.
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 warmed through, or microwave them for 15-20 seconds.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Crusty Biscuits contains roughly 448 calories, with 6g protein, 86g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (80% of the Daily Value) and calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1175mg per serving (51% 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 make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes, then proceed with the recipe as directed.
What can I substitute for shortening?
You can substitute shortening with an equal amount of unsalted butter or margarine. For a healthier option, try using coconut oil or even Greek yogurt, though the texture may vary slightly.
How do I know when the biscuits are done?
The biscuits are done when they are golden brown on top and have risen nicely. You can also check for doneness by tapping the bottom; it should sound hollow. If they are lightly browned and firm to the touch, they are ready to be taken out of the oven.
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).