Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for slight sweetness)
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
- 1 cup cold buttermilk (or milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice/vinegar added)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F).
Line a baking tray with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step 2: Mix dry ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together:
- Flour
- Baking powder
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Sugar (if using)
Make sure everything is evenly combined.
Step 3: Cut in the butter
Add the cold butter cubes to the dry mixture.
Using a pastry cutter, fork, or your fingertips:
- Work the butter into the flour
- Continue until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs with small pea-sized pieces of butter
Do not overmix. Small butter pieces help create flaky biscuits.
Step 4: Add the liquid
Pour in the cold buttermilk.
- Stir gently with a spoon or spatula
- Mix just until the dough comes together
The dough will be sticky and slightly lumpy. Avoid overmixing, as it can make the biscuits tough.
Step 5: Drop the biscuits
Using a large spoon or ice cream scoop:
- Drop portions of dough onto the prepared baking tray
- Leave some space between each biscuit
You don’t need to shape them perfectly; the rough texture is what gives drop biscuits their charm.
Step 6: Bake
Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until:
- The tops are golden brown
- The edges look crisp
Step 7: Optional finishing
Remove from the oven and, if desired:
- Brush tops with melted butter for extra flavor
- Let cool slightly before serving
Tips for Best Results
- Keep butter and liquid cold for better texture
- Do not overmix the dough
- Use fresh baking powder for good rise
- For richer flavor, you can add shredded cheese, herbs, or garlic powder to the dough
These biscuits are best served warm and can be enjoyed with butter, honey, jam, or alongside savory dishes.