Are you craving those fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth biscuits but are dairy-free? Don't worry, you don't have to miss out! This recipe delivers all the deliciousness of classic biscuits without using any milk. It’s a fantastic example of homemade cooking that's both easy and impressive. Whether you're looking for quick dinner ideas or simply want a delicious, healthy meal, these milk-free biscuits are the perfect solution. Get ready to elevate your baking game with these best recipes!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup cold vegetable shortening (or vegan butter)
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or other plant-based milk)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents for perfectly fluffy biscuits.
Step 2: Cut in the Shortening
Cut the cold shortening into the flour mixture using a pastry blender or your fingers. Work quickly to keep the shortening cold; this helps create flaky layers. You want the mixture to resemble coarse crumbs.
Step 3: Add the Plant-Based Milk
Gradually add the almond milk, mixing gently until just combined. Don't overmix; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing develops the gluten, resulting in tough biscuits.
Step 4: Knead and Shape the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently just a couple of times to bring it together. Pat or roll the dough to about 1-inch thickness. Use a biscuit cutter or a knife to cut out biscuits.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the biscuits onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 450°F (232°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Tips for the Best Milk-Free Biscuits:
- Cold Ingredients are Key: Using cold shortening and milk is crucial for flaky biscuits. The cold fat prevents gluten development, resulting in a tender crumb.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing develops the gluten, making the biscuits tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Bake at High Temperature: A high oven temperature helps the biscuits rise quickly and evenly.
- Use a Sharp Cutter: Use a sharp biscuit cutter to prevent the edges from crumbling.
Variations:
- Herbs and Cheese: Add 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (vegan cheddar works great!) and 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for extra flavor.
- Sweet Biscuits: Add 2 tablespoons of sugar to the dry ingredients and brush the baked biscuits with melted vegan butter for a sweeter treat.
- Different Plant-Based Milks: Experiment with other plant-based milks like soy milk or oat milk. You might need to adjust the amount slightly depending on the thickness of the milk.
Nutritional Information (per biscuit, approximate):
- Calories: 150-200
- Fat: 8-10g
- Protein: 3-4g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
These dairy-free biscuits are a delicious and easy addition to any meal. Enjoy them warm with your favorite savory or sweet toppings! They're perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a simple side dish for dinner. They're a testament to how simple, healthy meals can also be incredibly delicious and satisfying. Give this easy recipe a try and experience the joy of homemade baking!