Plain Flour Biscuits
These classic plain flour biscuits are flaky, tender, and buttery, perfect for breakfast or alongside hearty meals. Their simple ingredients make them a versatile treat for all.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 450° to 500° F.
- Grease a baking pan.
- Combine the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Cut in the shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add milk slowly and mix to a smooth consistency.
- Knead the dough gently on a floured surface.
- Do not overknead.
- Press out the dough to a 1/2 to 1-inch thickness using your hand.
- Cut out biscuits with a biscuit cutter.
- Coat both sides of each biscuit with melted butter.
- Bake for about 10 minutes, or until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a fluffier biscuit, consider sifting the flour before measuring. If you don't have shortening, you can substitute with unsalted butter or coconut oil. For added flavor, mix in herbs or spices like garlic powder or dried thyme. Remember to handle the dough gently; overworking can result in tough biscuits. Serve with honey or jam for a delightful twist.
Serving Suggestions
These plain flour biscuits are perfect for breakfast or as a side with soup or stew. Serve with butter and jam, or even alongside dishes like Scalloped Cornbread Corn for a hearty meal. They also make a great base for biscuits and gravy, adding a savory touch to your brunch table.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, wrap them in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-8 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Plain Flour Biscuits contains roughly 90 calories, with 0g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of calcium (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1134mg per serving (49% 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 in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When ready to bake, simply roll out and cut the biscuits as directed. Alternatively, you can freeze the cut biscuits and bake them straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I substitute for milk in this recipe?
If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can use almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk as a substitute. For a richer flavor, consider using buttermilk or yogurt thinned with a little water. Each alternative may slightly change the texture but will still yield delicious results.
How can I make these biscuits sweeter?
To add sweetness to your biscuits, consider mixing in a tablespoon of sugar or honey into the dry ingredients. You could also brush the tops with a little honey or maple syrup before baking for a sweet glaze. Pairing them with fruit preserves can also enhance the sweetness.
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).