Are you craving those warm, fluffy biscuits but don't have any milk on hand? Don't worry! This easy biscuit recipe skips the dairy entirely, resulting in unbelievably delicious and tender biscuits that are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any mealtime. These quick dinner ideas are also incredibly versatile – serve them alongside savory dishes or enjoy them with your favorite sweet spreads. This recipe is perfect for homemade cooking enthusiasts of all levels, offering a delightful and surprisingly simple way to enjoy this classic treat. Get ready to experience the joy of baking with this easy recipe, delivering healthy meals that are both satisfying and delicious!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 cup vegetable shortening (or lard, for a richer flavor)
- 1 cup cold water (or buttermilk substitute - see tips below)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda. Ensure all the dry ingredients are well combined to ensure even leavening.
Step 2: Cut in the Shortening
Cut in the cold shortening using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Work quickly to prevent the shortening from melting.
Step 3: Add the Liquid
Gradually add the cold water (or buttermilk substitute), mixing gently with a fork until the dough just comes together. Don't overmix; a slightly shaggy dough is perfectly fine.
Step 4: Knead and Shape
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently for just a few seconds. Pat the dough to about 1-inch thickness. Use a biscuit cutter or a knife to cut out biscuits.
Step 5: Bake
Place the biscuits onto an ungreased baking sheet. Bake in a preheated oven at 450°F (232°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove from the oven and let the biscuits cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm with butter, jam, gravy, or your favorite toppings!
Cooking Tips for the Best Biscuits:
- Cold Ingredients are Key: Using cold ingredients is crucial for creating flaky biscuits. Cold fat prevents the gluten from developing too much, resulting in a tender crumb.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the dough develops the gluten, leading to tough biscuits. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Buttermilk Substitute: For a tangier flavor, substitute the water with 1 cup of buttermilk or make a buttermilk substitute by mixing 1 cup of water with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before adding it to the dough.
- Baking Time: Baking times may vary slightly depending on your oven. Keep an eye on the biscuits and adjust baking time as needed.
Variations:
- Cheese Biscuits: Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the dry ingredients.
- Herb Biscuits: Add 1 tablespoon of dried herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, to the dry ingredients.
- Sweet Biscuits: Add 1/4 cup of sugar to the dry ingredients and serve with honey or fruit preserves.
Nutritional Information (per biscuit, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 8-10g
- Protein: 3-4g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This easy biscuit recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of delicious dishes and healthy meals. It's quick, simple, and delivers amazing results every time. Enjoy the delightful flavor and texture of these homemade biscuits – a testament to the beauty of simple, yet satisfying food recipes. These best recipes are perfect for any skill level and are guaranteed to impress!