Easy Drop Biscuits

These biscuits are light, fluffy, and so easy to make. No rolling, no cutting—just scoop and bake. They’re buttery, golden, and totally irresistible.

I made them for a quick weeknight dinner, and they were gone before the soup finished. The dough comes together in minutes, and the biscuits puff up beautifully in the oven. They’re the perfect last-minute bread.

They’re warm, comforting, and perfect with butter, honey, or jam. Great for breakfast, dinner, or just a little snack. You’ll want to keep this recipe on hand.

Let’s whip up a batch! These easy drop biscuits are quick, simple, and oh-so-satisfying. Grab your bowl—let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fast and Fuss-Free: Unlike traditional biscuits that require careful rolling and cutting, these drop biscuits are as easy as stirring a batter. Scoop and drop them onto a baking sheet, and they’re ready for the oven.
• Soft and Tender Inside, Golden Outside: The cold butter pieces melt during baking, creating steam pockets that make the biscuits light and airy. The exterior bakes to a golden crisp that contrasts beautifully with the fluffy interior.
• Adaptable: Add a handful of sharp cheddar for cheesy biscuits, a sprinkle of garlic powder for a savory twist, or fresh herbs like chives or rosemary for a more aromatic touch.
• Perfect for Beginners: No special tools or fancy techniques required. Even a child can help mix the dough, making this a family-friendly recipe.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time & Cook Time:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes. From gathering ingredients to mixing the dough, this part is quick and easy.
• Cook Time: 12 to 15 minutes in a preheated oven. They bake up quickly, so keep an eye on them.
• Total Time: About 25 minutes. You’ll have warm, ready-to-eat biscuits on the table in less than half an hour.

Servings:

This recipe makes about 12 drop biscuits, depending on how large you scoop them. They’re satisfying as a side dish or snack, easily serving 4 to 6 people.

Difficulty:

Easy. The drop method removes the need for rolling and cutting, making this recipe ideal for beginners or those short on time.

Required Kitchen Tools

• Mixing Bowl: A medium or large bowl for combining the ingredients.
• Whisk or Fork: To mix the dry ingredients and stir in the buttermilk.
• Pastry Cutter or Two Knives: For cutting the cold butter into the flour. If you don’t have one, use your fingertips, but work quickly to avoid warming the butter.
• Baking Sheet: Line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
• Ice Cream Scoop or Spoon: To portion the dough evenly. An ice cream scoop makes it simple, but a spoon works too.
• Oven Mitts: Always use for safety when handling hot baking sheets.

Ingredients for the Biscuits

Let’s talk about the ingredients that make these drop biscuits special. The list is short, but each plays an important role:

• All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of the dough. You can also use a mix of all-purpose and whole wheat for a heartier biscuit.
• Baking Powder: This leavening agent makes the biscuits rise and become fluffy. Make sure it’s fresh for the best lift.
• Salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the richness of the butter.
• Cold Butter: The key to flaky, tender biscuits. Keep the butter in the fridge right until you’re ready to use it. Cold butter creates steam when it melts during baking, giving the biscuits a light texture.
• Buttermilk: Adds moisture and a subtle tanginess that complements the richness of the butter. If you don’t have buttermilk, mix regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for a few minutes.
• Optional Add-Ins:
  • Shredded Cheddar Cheese: For cheesy drop biscuits.
  • Garlic Powder: Adds a savory depth.
  • Fresh Herbs (Chives, Parsley, Rosemary): Lend a touch of green and a burst of flavor.

Variations for Easy Drop Biscuits

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. While the classic version is simple and delicious, here are some ways you can adjust it to fit your tastes:

• Cheddar Drop Biscuits: Fold in about ½ to 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese before adding the buttermilk. This gives the biscuits a rich, cheesy flavor that pairs beautifully with soups and stews.
• Garlic and Herb Biscuits: Add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and a tablespoon of finely chopped fresh herbs such as chives, parsley, or rosemary. These biscuits bring an aromatic and savory twist that’s perfect for dinner.
• Sweet Biscuits: For a subtle touch of sweetness, sprinkle a little sugar into the dry ingredients and serve the biscuits with butter and jam.
• Whole Wheat Version: Replace up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier, heartier texture.

How to Make Easy Drop Biscuits: Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This ensures the leavening is evenly distributed throughout the dough.

2. Cut in the Cold Butter

Using a pastry cutter, two knives, or your fingertips, work the cold, cubed butter into the dry mixture. The goal is to create pea-sized bits of butter coated with flour. This step is crucial for the biscuit’s flaky texture.

3. Add the Buttermilk

Pour the cold buttermilk into the bowl and gently stir with a fork or spoon. Mix just until the flour is incorporated and the dough comes together. It’s important not to overmix, as this can lead to tough biscuits. The dough will be a bit sticky and lumpy—that’s okay.

4. Add Optional Ingredients (If Using)

At this stage, fold in any add-ins such as shredded cheese, herbs, or garlic powder. Stir just enough to distribute them evenly.

5. Scoop the Dough

Using an ice cream scoop or a spoon, drop portions of dough onto a lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. These biscuits won’t spread much, so don’t worry about crowding.

6. Bake

Place the baking sheet in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C). Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and the biscuits are cooked through.

7. Serve

Allow the biscuits to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack. Serve warm, ideally with butter, honey, or your favorite jam.

Serving and Decoration

These Easy Drop Biscuits are versatile and can be served in many ways:

• With Breakfast: Pair them with scrambled eggs and bacon for a comforting morning meal.
• Alongside Soups and Stews: Their fluffy texture is perfect for soaking up rich broths and gravies.
• With Butter and Honey: Serve them as a snack or side, slathered with a bit of butter and a drizzle of honey.
• Savory Variation: If you made a garlic and herb version, they pair wonderfully with roasted meats or hearty salads.

For a touch of color, sprinkle a few finely chopped herbs over the biscuits just before serving.

Storing Easy Drop Biscuits

• Room Temperature: Store cooled biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerator: Keep them in the fridge for up to 5 days. Warm them briefly in the oven or microwave before serving.
• Freezer: Freeze the baked biscuits in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8-10 minutes.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Use Cold Butter: This is crucial. Cold butter creates steam during baking, which leads to a lighter, fluffier biscuit.
• Don’t Overmix: Stir the dough just until it comes together. Overmixing can make the biscuits dense.
• Use Fresh Baking Powder: Old baking powder can lose its effectiveness, which may result in flat biscuits.
• Customize Flavors: Experiment with different herbs, cheeses, or spices to suit your meal or occasion.

Nutrition

Nutrient	Per Biscuit (Approximate)
Calories	180
Carbohydrates	22g
Protein	4g
Fat	9g
Saturated Fat	5g
Cholesterol	20mg
Sodium	220mg
Fiber	1g
Sugars	1g

FAQs

Q: Can I use milk instead of buttermilk?
A: Yes. Combine ¾ cup milk with 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes to create a buttermilk substitute.

Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: It’s best to bake these biscuits right after mixing. However, you can prepare the dry ingredients and cut in the butter ahead of time. Add the buttermilk when ready to bake.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Keep biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Q: Can I freeze them?
A: Yes, these biscuits freeze well. Store them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes.

Conclusion

These Easy Drop Biscuits are a practical, delicious solution for anyone who loves homemade bread but doesn’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen. With a short ingredient list and a simple process, they’re perfect for busy days, beginner bakers, and anyone craving a warm, comforting biscuit. Whether you enjoy them plain or with added cheese and herbs, they’ll quickly become a favorite at your table.