Alright, let’s just say it: sometimes you want something tasty and warm—maybe even a little fresh-from-the-oven magic—but goodness, you just can’t be bothered with a million fancy ingredients. That’s how I landed on the 3 ingredient biscuit recipe that, honestly, changed my life on busy nights. You know, those days when you want some easy comfort food but do not want to spend an hour in the kitchen after work? Been there. Heck, this quick biscuit fix is almost as easy as these 2-ingredient ice cream sandwiches for dessert or, for a savory idea, check out these best vegan appetizers—so many good ones!
Biscuit Recipe Ingredients
Let’s keep it real—there’s nothing worse than a recipe that’s supposed to be “simple” but has twenty things you never have. Not this time. For my go-to 3 ingredient biscuit recipe, you’re looking at three things, all easy peasy:
- Self-rising flour (If you only have plain, just toss in a teaspoon of baking powder and a pinch of salt per cup, and don’t overthink it)
- Heavy cream (Yes, it makes these biscuits rich, so just roll with it. Milk works, but honestly, cream is king)
- Butter (Unsalty kind is best, but I’ve used salted too when that’s all that’s left lurking in the back of the fridge)
That’s really it. Got those? You’re halfway there.
“I tried this recipe with my kids, and now they ask for biscuits twice a week. The taste is spot on and it takes barely any time—perfect for after-school snacks!” — Janelle R.
How to Make Biscuits
Preheat your oven. Trust me, if you forget this part, you’ll end up twiddling your thumbs for ten minutes. Set it to about 425°F so the biscuits get that beautiful golden edge.
Pour your self-rising flour into a bowl. Cold butter? Yes, please—cut it into small cubes (or, you’ve seen it online, grate it if you’re feeling fancy or just impatient). Mix the butter into the flour quick—don’t overwork it, crumbs are good.
Splash in the heavy cream. Stir together fast, stopping the moment it’s just mixed. Lumpy is fine, weirdly enough. Don’t knead like it’s bread dough or you’ll make bricks.
Dump your dough onto a lightly floured surface—press it down softly, then cut out circles with a glass or biscuit cutter. Oven them on a baking sheet, bake about 12-14 minutes, and oh wow, that smell.
I sometimes sneak one straight from the tray (not recommended for your tongue, but honestly? Worth it).
Tips for Homemade Biscuits
So, listen—I learned some of these the hard way (burnt biscuit bottoms, anyone?):
Self-rising flour really makes all the difference. If you use regular flour, please don’t forget the baking powder and pinch of salt, or the biscuits will be sad and flat.
Don’t handle the dough too much! Seriously, a gentle touch keeps your biscuits fluffy. If it’s sticky, that’s fine. It’ll come together.
Cold butter is the trick to flaky layers. Use frozen if you’re feeling extra.
Don’t worry about making them perfect circles. Misshapen ones taste better anyway.
For more inspo on simple treats, the dessert is just 3 ingredients post is a must-read. And if you want a meal to go with your biscuits, peek at these quick and easy low calorie lunch recipes.
How to Store Homemade Biscuits
If, and it’s a big if, you end up with leftover biscuits (which is pretty rare in my house), here’s what I do.
Cool the biscuits all the way before wrapping them up. An airtight container works perfectly; just throw a napkin in to keep ‘em from getting soggy. On the counter, they’re happy for a day—two if you’re lucky. If you need longer, just toss them in the fridge, but microwave for about ten seconds before eating cause nobody wants a cold biscuit.
If you want to save biscuits for a rainy (or lazy) day, slide them into a freezer bag and stick them in the freezer for up to a month. Reheat in the oven for best results, honest. They won’t taste “just-baked,” but it’s close enough for weeknight cravings.
Ways to Enjoy Your Biscuits
Nobody ever said biscuits were just for breakfast—no way. Here are some off-the-wall and classic ideas.
- Honey and butter—for a sweet tooth moment that’s better than most desserts.
- Egg and cheddar sandwich—snacks like this got me through college and they still surprise me with how good they are.
- Biscuit with sausage gravy—kind of a Southern rite of passage.
- Paired with soup—try it with homemade soup like this savory vegan cauliflower soup.
If you’re feeling bold, crumble a biscuit right into your favorite stew or chili. Or spread them with fruit jam—strawberry is my sneaky favorite.
Tip | Details |
---|---|
Use Cold Ingredients | Keeping the butter and cream cold helps achieve flaky layers in your biscuits. |
Avoid Overworking the Dough | Mix until just combined. Over-kneading can lead to tough biscuits. |
Use Self-Rising Flour | It simplifies the process by eliminating the need for additional leavening agents. |
Store Properly | Cool before wrapping in an airtight container to avoid sogginess. |
Experiment with Flavors | Try adding herbs, cheese, or spices for a twist on the classic biscuit. |
Common Questions
How do I keep the biscuit dough from getting too sticky?
Dust your hands and the counter with extra flour. Also, don’t stress about getting messy—it’s all part of homemade.
Can I use milk instead of cream?
Yes, but your biscuits will be less rich. Cream is where the magic happens, but if all you have is milk, run with it.
What if I don’t have self-rising flour?
Just add one teaspoon baking powder and a pinch of salt for each cup of regular flour. Works out pretty well, to be honest.
Should I brush the tops with anything before baking?
Totally optional, but a little melted butter on top right when they come out? Game changer.
Can I make these ahead for camping or trips?
Absolutely! For more cool ideas, check out these 21 easy camping recipes—lots of tasty road trip eats.
Biscuit Love for Busy Home Cooks
So that’s my best kitchen shortcut—the one that makes me feel like I’ve got it together on a hectic Tuesday. The 3 ingredient biscuit recipe is my fallback, my all-star, my “I can do this, even after the longest day” treat. For even more inspiration, I peeked at these tips from 3-Ingredient Homemade Biscuits on Culinary Hill, loved the Southern take by Divas Can Cook for their 3-Ingredient Buttermilk Biscuits, and, goodness, the homey vibe at This Farmwife’s Three Ingredient Biscuits is top-notch. You’ve totally got this—trust me, making biscuits is the easy win every home cook deserves.
3 Ingredient Biscuits
Ingredients
Biscuit Ingredients
- 2 cups Self-rising flour Use regular flour with a teaspoon of baking powder and a pinch of salt if necessary.
- 1 cup Heavy cream Milk can be used but cream yields better results.
- 0.5 cups Butter Unsalty is best; salted can be used if needed.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a bowl, pour in the self-rising flour.
- Cut cold butter into small cubes and mix quickly into the flour until crumbly.
- Add the heavy cream and stir until just combined; lumpy is okay.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface, press lightly, and cut out circles.
- Place on a baking sheet and bake for 12-14 minutes until golden brown.