Name: Homemade Drop Biscuits
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tbsp baking powder; 1 ¼ tsp kosher salt; ½ cup unsalted butter, very cold, cut small; ¾ to 1 cup milk or buttermilk (Adjust for consistency); cheese or other add-ins (For flavor variations)

There’s something undeniably comforting about fresh, warm biscuits fresh from the oven. Homemade Drop Biscuits are not only incredibly easy to make but also yield fluffy, tender results that can elevate any breakfast, brunch, or dinner spread. Whether slathered with butter, served alongside gravy, or enjoyed with honey, these biscuits will become a family favorite in no time.

The simplicity of this recipe lies in the straightforward method and the minimal ingredients required. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up these delightful drop biscuits that are perfect for any occasion. There’s no need for rolling or cutting – just drop spoonfuls of dough onto your baking sheet, and you’re ready to bake. The combination of cold butter and minimal mixing ensures that each bite is light and flaky, making them a perfect accompaniment to soups, salads, or as a tasty snack on their own.

Why make this recipe

Making homemade drop biscuits is a rewarding culinary experience that comes together in no time. The satisfaction of pulling a tray of golden-brown biscuits from the oven, surrounded by the irresistible aroma of baking, is unmatched. These biscuits require no special equipment or extensive techniques, making them accessible for bakers of all skill levels. The flexibility of the recipe allows you to experiment with flavors and add-ins such as cheese, herbs, or spices to adapt them to your taste preferences. Equally simple to prepare, they are a great addition for any meal, and knowing that they are homemade adds an extra layer of warmth and love.

Furthermore, these drop biscuits are versatile. You can customize them to match the season or occasion. For a savory twist, you might add garlic powder or shredded cheese, while sweet variations might include cinnamon or a splash of vanilla for a breakfast treat. Plus, they are perfect for using up leftover cream or buttermilk in the fridge. Because they come together so quickly, they’re ideal for unexpected guests or busy mornings when you want to serve something special without the fuss.

How to make Homemade Drop Biscuits

Creating homemade drop biscuits is straightforward and requires just a few steps. The first step is to preheat your oven to a high temperature—450°F (230°C) is ideal for achieving a crispy exterior while maintaining a moist interior. While the oven heats, you prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or greasing it lightly with butter if you prefer a cast-iron skillet for baking.

Next, combine your dry ingredients. In a large bowl, whisk the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and kosher salt until they are well blended. The inclusion of baking powder is crucial, as it helps the biscuits rise and become wonderfully fluffy. After mixing your dry ingredients, it’s time to incorporate the very cold butter. Cut the butter into small pieces and add it to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or a fork to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse meal with some pea-sized pieces of butter remaining. This step is vital for creating layers in your biscuits as they bake.

After incorporating the butter, you will add the milk or buttermilk. Start by stirring in ¾ of a cup, mixing just until the dough comes together. The key here is not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly acceptable. If the dough appears too dry, you can gradually add more milk to achieve a thick, lumpy consistency, ensuring your biscuits remain moist yet well-structured.

Once your dough is ready, it’s time to form the biscuits. Using a scoop or spoon, drop about ¼ cup portions of dough onto your prepared baking sheet or skillet, giving them enough space to expand as they bake. They can be placed close together since they will rise beautifully. After shaping your biscuits, pop them in the oven and bake for about 16–20 minutes. They should turn golden brown and fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.

For an added touch, once they are out of the oven, consider brushing the tops with melted butter for extra flavor and sprinkling a little flaky salt on top. This not only enhances the taste but gives them an appealing finish that is irresistible.

Ingredients

2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour
1 tbsp (14 g) baking powder
1 ¼ tsp kosher salt
½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, very cold, cut small
¾ to 1 cup (170–227 g / 180–240 ml) milk or buttermilk
Optional: cheese or other add-ins

Directions

Preheat oven to 450°F / 230°C. Line a baking sheet with parchment (or butter a cast-iron skillet).
Mix dry ingredients: whisk flour, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl.
Cut in butter: add cold butter pieces and cut in with a pastry cutter/fork until it looks like coarse meal.
Add milk/buttermilk: stir in ¾ cup first, mixing just until combined. If too dry, add a bit more until it becomes a very thick, lumpy batter (don’t overmix).
Drop biscuits: scoop about ¼ cup portions onto the tray/skillet (they can touch).
Bake 16–20 minutes until golden.
Finish (optional): brush with melted butter and sprinkle flaky salt.

Time Breakdown

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 0 minutes
• Baking Time: 16–20 minutes
• Chilling Time: 0 minutes
• Rising Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 26–30 minutes
• Servings: 8

How to serve Homemade Drop Biscuits

Homemade Drop Biscuits can be served in an array of delightful ways. They are perfect for breakfast when served warm with a pat of butter, a drizzle of honey, or spoonfuls of jelly. You can also pair them with savory dishes like sausage gravy for a southern-style breakfast. For lunch or dinner, these biscuits serve as a scrumptious side to soups, salads, or stews, making any meal feel that much heartier. Adding some freshly grated cheese to the dough can elevate the flavor profile, turning a simple biscuit into a cheesy treat that complements a variety of dishes.

For a fun twist, consider making mini versions of the biscuits that are perfect for snacking or serving at gatherings alongside dips or spreads. Whatever the occasion, these biscuits are sure to be a hit with your guests due to their versatility and comforting appeal.

How to store Homemade Drop Biscuits

Storing your Homemade Drop Biscuits properly will ensure they maintain their delightful texture and flavor. If you plan to eat them within a couple of days, simply place them in an airtight container at room temperature. Keep them away from direct sunlight and moisture to prevent them from becoming stale.

If you have made a larger batch or wish to keep them for longer, they can be frozen. Allow the biscuits to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, place the biscuits in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes, or until warmed through. This method not only revives their deliciousness but also keeps them soft and fluffy.

Tips to make Homemade Drop Biscuits

To ensure your Homemade Drop Biscuits turn out perfectly every time, consider a few essential tips. First, using very cold butter is crucial to achieving the desired flaky texture, so it’s a good idea to cut the butter into small pieces and even place it in the freezer for a few minutes before incorporating it into the flour mixture. This helps to create steam pockets during baking, leading to a light and airy biscuit.

Another helpful hint is to measure your flour correctly. Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife to avoid packing it down, which can result in drier biscuits. Also, keep in mind that under-mixing is key; you want the dough to be just combined without extensive kneading or mixing. Lastly, don’t hesitate to experiment with different add-ins, such as fresh herbs or spices, to create unique flavor profiles that suit your meals perfectly.

Variation

No major variations, but you can adjust seasonings to taste.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

(Estimated values; use units; NOT a paragraph; do NOT use bullets or numbering)
• Calories: 210 kcal
• Protein: 4 g
• Carbohydrates: 26 g
• Fat: 10 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 500 mg

FAQs

Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking, but it’s best used fresh for optimal texture.

Q: What can I use instead of buttermilk?
A: You can make a buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of milk and letting it sit for about 5 minutes.

Q: How do I know when the biscuits are done baking?
A: The biscuits should be golden brown on top and firm to the touch. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with just a few crumbs.