Biscuits are fluffy, flaky bread rolls central to Southern and homestyle cuisine. Biscuit mix can be incorporated into just about any meal, be it breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and served with various toppings and entrees. Here are some interesting facts about biscuits and how they’re made that may deepen your appreciation for this American classic. 

How Do Biscuits Differ From Scones?

Biscuits and scones look alike, share common ingredients, and can be served with similar toppings. Both are also considered “quick bread” because they’re made with leavening agents like baking soda or powder and don’t require rising before baking.

There are key differences, however. Biscuits are light and flaky, whereas scones are denser and more prone to being crumbly. Scones are sweeter, as well, while biscuits tend to be savory. Because scones are a bit drier, they’re usually served with tea or coffee. Scones can also contain ingredients like dried fruits or herbs, while biscuits tend to be more minimalist. Biscuits can also be served with jam or butter, like scones, or with gravy, cheese, or meats. 

How Are Biscuits Made?

Biscuit mix contains flour and a leavening agent, which is mixed with fat and liquid. Though there are variations, bakers typically use butter, lard, soft wheat flour, buttermilk, and baking powder. Some incorporate savory ingredients like cheese or ham or sweet flavors like citrus zest.

Soft wheat flour is crucial in biscuit mix, as the gluten is weaker compared to hard wheat flour. This allows the baking powder to generate more carbon dioxide in the oven, creating biscuits’ characteristic fluff and flakiness. Hard wheat flours, by contrast, trap carbon dioxide and produce a denser bake. 

What Are Some Classic Ways to Eat Biscuits?

Biscuits and gravy is by far the most popular biscuit dish in the South. Simple in concept, it involves pouring hot gravy over or between halved biscuits. There are many gravy variations, but the most traditional kind is white gravy made with flour, milk, and grilled sausage. Brown gravy, which usually contains pieces of meat, is another option, but you can also use vegetarian varieties with mushrooms or veggie meat substitutes.

Other dishes that are often paired with biscuits throughout the United States include breakfast foods like eggs, cheese, and bacon, layered between sliced biscuit halves; fried chicken or ham dinners; and hearty beef and vegetable stews.

For buttery, flaky biscuits full of hometown flavor, turn to Valentine Mills. Located in Dandridge, TN, this country store is also a working mill, serving a variety of homemade goods from biscuit mix and organic grits to jams, jellies, and organic cornmeal. Call (865) 309-9812 to inquire about a tour, or visit their website to browse their products.