Old-Fashioned Baking Powder Biscuits
Old-Fashioned Baking Powder Biscuits are fluffy, buttery treats with a tender crumb, perfect for breakfast or alongside hearty meals, appealing to both novice and experienced bakers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oven to 450°F.
- Lightly spoon flour into measuring cup; level off.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Using a fork or pastry blender, cut shortening into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse meal.
- Add milk; stir with a fork until the mixture leaves the sides of the bowl and forms a soft, moist dough.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently a few times.
- Pat the dough into a 1/2-inch thick layer.
- Cut out biscuits with a floured cutter and place on an ungreased baking sheet.
- Bake for about 10 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your shortening is cold, as this helps create flaky layers in your biscuits. If you don’t have shortening, you can substitute it with unsalted butter or coconut oil. Adding a teaspoon of sugar can enhance the flavor slightly. If you like a bit of sweetness, consider pairing these biscuits with the tartness of Grandma'S Lemon Cream Pie.
Serving Suggestions
These biscuits are perfect for breakfast with butter and jam or as a side with savory dishes like soups and stews. They also pair beautifully with the sweet notes of Sister Lila Cobourn'S Vinegar Pie, making for a delightful meal. Consider serving them alongside scrambled eggs or fried chicken for a satisfying meal.
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 2 months. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes until warm and crispy again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old-Fashioned Baking Powder Biscuits contains roughly 81 calories, with 1g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of calcium (15% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1158mg per serving (50% 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 these biscuits ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply roll out the dough and cut into biscuits. This allows the flavors to meld and can save time on busy mornings.
What can I do if my biscuits turn out hard?
If your biscuits are hard, it’s often due to overworking the dough or using too much flour. Be gentle when kneading and aim for a soft dough consistency. If they still turn out hard, try reducing the baking time slightly next time.
Can I add flavors or ingredients to the biscuits?
Absolutely! You can add herbs like rosemary or chives for a savory twist, or incorporate cheese for added flavor. Dried fruits or spices can also be mixed in to complement the biscuits, making them versatile for various meals.
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).