Save
These fluffy gluten-free biscuits are exactly what I reach for when I crave a warm comforting side without the gluten fuss. Perfectly tender with a slight golden crust they bring breakfast or dinner plates to life with minimal ingredients and effort.
I threw this recipe together on a whim when fresh biscuits were hard to come by for me and it became a staple in our weekend brunches.
Ingredients
- Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour Blend: with xanthan gum provides structure and helps bind the dough for that classic biscuit crumb look pick a blend labeled for baking for best results
- Baking Powder: gives that necessary rise use fresh baking powder to ensure your biscuits are fluffy and light
- Salt: enhances flavor and balances the softness of the dough
- Cold Butter: cubed or grated adds richness and creates flakiness keep it very cold to prevent melting before baking
- Milk or dairy-free alternative: adds moisture and tenderness choose whole milk or a creamy plant milk for the best flavor and texture
Instructions
- Preheat The Oven:
- Set your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy clean up.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- Whisk together the gluten-free flour blend baking powder and salt in a large bowl until evenly combined this step guarantees an even rise and seasoned bite.
- Cut In The Butter:
- Add the cold butter cubes and using a pastry blender or your fingers work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs the butter pieces are what create flaky layers so avoid over-mixing or melting the butter.
- Add The Milk:
- Pour in the milk and gently stir or pulse briefly in a food processor just until the dough comes together over mixing can make biscuits tough keep it loose but combined.
- Shape The Dough:
- Turn the wet dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a rectangle about three quarters of an inch thick do not knead or press too hard or it will lose its fluffiness.
- Cut Biscuits:
- Use a biscuit cutter or a sharp knife to cut out your biscuits placing them on the prepared baking sheet leaving a little space for rising.
- Optional Butter Brush:
- Brush melted butter over the tops before baking if you want a shiny golden finish and extra richness.
- Bake:
- Place the tray in the oven for twelve to fifteen minutes until the biscuits have puffed up and the tops turn a warm golden brown this baking time ensures cooked through and a light soft crumb.
- Cool Slightly:
- Remove the biscuits and allow them to cool for a few minutes so they firm up just enough to handle without crumbling then serve warm with your favorite spread.
Store leftover biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To keep them fresh longer wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to one month. Reheat gently in the oven wrapped in foil to revive their softness.
Ingredient Swaps
You can replace the cold butter with cold coconut oil for a dairy-free option but expect a slight coconut hint. Plant-based milks like oat or almond work beautifully to keep biscuits tender. If your flour blend does not have xanthan gum add about one teaspoon for structure.
Serving Ideas
Serve warm biscuits with honey butter and jam for breakfast. For dinner use them as a side with soups or stews or split and stuff with ham and cheese for a quick sandwich. Crumble over salads as a crunchy topping.
Cultural Context
Biscuits are a Southern comfort food staple in the United States often enjoyed fresh from the oven alongside gravy or as the base of a breakfast sandwich. Making them gluten free opens these traditions to more people without sacrificing that classic comforting feel.
These biscuits bring a warm and tender comfort food experience that anyone can enjoy gluten free.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → What type of flour is best for light biscuits?
A gluten-free all-purpose flour blend with xanthan gum helps achieve the desired flaky texture.
- → How can I keep biscuits tender and fluffy?
Using very cold butter and mixing the dough just until combined prevents toughness and creates a tender crumb.
- → Can I use dairy-free milk in these biscuits?
Yes, dairy-free milk alternatives work well and yield similar light, soft results.
- → What does baking powder do in the dough?
Baking powder acts as a leavening agent, helping the biscuits rise and become fluffy during baking.
- → Is it necessary to bake at a high temperature?
Baking at 450°F helps the biscuits develop a golden crust while staying moist inside.