There’s nothing quite like biting into a warm, flaky biscuit, especially when it reminds you of KFC’s famous sides. I’ve always loved how those golden biscuits perfectly complement a hearty meal of fried chicken, creating a comforting and satisfying experience.
After craving those delicious KFC biscuits for too long, I decided to try my hand at a copycat recipe. It turned out to be easier than I expected and just as tasty! Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking to treat your family, this recipe will help you recreate that beloved KFC biscuit right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 3/4 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons melted butter, for brushing
Tools Needed
To master these KFC-style biscuits, gather the following tools:
- Large Mixing Bowl
Combine dry ingredients and incorporate the butter smoothly.
- Pastry Blender or Fork
Cut the cold butter into the flour mixture without warming it.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Ensure precise measurements for consistent results.
- Rolling Pin
Gently roll out the dough to an even thickness.
- Biscuit Cutter or Round Glass
Shape uniform biscuits for even baking.
- Baking Sheet
Provide a stable surface for the biscuits in the oven.
- Parchment Paper
Prevents sticking and simplifies cleanup.
- Pastry Brush
Apply melted butter glaze evenly over the biscuits.
- Cooling Rack
Allow biscuits to cool properly, maintaining their texture.
Having these tools ready will make the baking process smooth and enjoyable, helping you recreate those irresistible KFC biscuits at home.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing these KFC-style biscuits ahead of time allows you to enjoy them fresh whenever the craving strikes. Here’s how I make them ahead to ensure convenience without compromising on taste:
- Prepare the Dough
Follow the recipe to mix and prepare your biscuit dough as usual.
- Shape the Biscuits
Use a biscuit cutter or a round glass to shape the biscuits and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they don’t touch each other.
- Freeze Unbaked Biscuits
Transfer the baking sheet to the freezer and let the biscuits freeze for about 1-2 hours until solid.
- Store in Freezer Bags
Once frozen, move the biscuits to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. Label them with the date and keep them in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Bake from Frozen
When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Arrange the frozen biscuits on a prepared baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each. Brush the tops with melted butter and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Reheating Baked Biscuits
If you prefer to bake the biscuits before freezing, allow them to cool completely after baking. Place the cooled biscuits in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Quick Reference Table
| Action | Time | Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Freeze unbaked biscuits | 1-2 hours | Freezer |
| Bake from frozen | 15-20 minutes | 425°F (220°C) |
| Reheat baked biscuits | 10-15 minutes | 350°F (175°C) |
| Storage Duration | Up to 3 months | Freezer |
By following these make-ahead steps, you can effortlessly have delicious KFC-style biscuits ready to complement any meal or satisfy a sudden craving.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your own KFC-style biscuits that are just as flaky and delicious as the original.
Prepare the Dough
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar.
- Cut in the Butter: Add 1/2 cup of cold unsalted butter, cubed, to the flour mixture. Use a pastry blender or fork to cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Milk: Pour in 3/4 cup of whole milk gradually, stirring gently until the dough begins to come together. Avoid overmixing to ensure a tender biscuit.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead it 5-6 times until it’s smooth but still slightly sticky.
- Roll and Cut: Roll the dough to about 1/2-inch thickness. Use a biscuit cutter or a round glass to cut out biscuits, pressing firmly without twisting to help them rise evenly.
Bake the Biscuits
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Arrange Biscuits: Place the cut biscuits on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are close but not touching to allow for expansion.
- Bake: Insert the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown on top and cooked through.
- Cool Slightly: Remove the biscuits from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
Brush with Butter
- Melt Butter: While the biscuits are still warm, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a small saucepan or microwave.
- Apply Butter: Using a pastry brush, generously brush the melted butter over the tops of each biscuit. This step adds a rich, buttery flavor and keeps the biscuits soft.
- Serve Warm: Enjoy your freshly baked biscuits warm for the best flavor and texture.
Tips for Perfect Biscuits
Achieving the perfect KFC-style biscuits is all about attention to detail and mastering a few key techniques. Here are my top tips to ensure your biscuits come out flaky, tender, and irresistibly delicious every time.
1. Keep Ingredients Cold
Using cold ingredients is crucial for flaky biscuits. I always start with cold unsalted butter and chilled milk. Cold butter creates steam pockets during baking, which results in those signature layers.
2. Measure Flour Accurately
Flour measurement can make or break your biscuits. I use the spoon-and-level method to avoid packing excess flour into the measuring cup. This ensures the right dough consistency without it becoming too dry or sticky.
3. Handle the Dough Gently
Overworking the dough leads to tough biscuits. I mix just until the ingredients are combined and then gently knead the dough a few times on a floured surface. This preserves the light texture.
4. Use a Biscuit Cutter Properly
For perfectly round biscuits, press the cutter straight down without twisting. Twisting can seal the edges and prevent proper rising. Wipe the cutter clean between each cut to maintain smooth sides.
5. Bake at the Right Temperature
Preheating your oven to 425°F ensures the biscuits rise quickly and develop a golden-brown crust. I always use an oven thermometer to verify the temperature accuracy.
6. Brush with Melted Butter
Brushing the hot biscuits with melted butter right out of the oven adds a rich, savory flavor and keeps them moist. I use a pastry brush to evenly distribute the butter for the best results.
7. Bake on a Hot Baking Sheet
Using a preheated baking sheet helps the bottoms of the biscuits become perfectly golden and crispy. I place the parchment paper on the sheet to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
8. Serve Warm
Biscuits are best enjoyed fresh and warm from the oven. I like to let them cool for just a few minutes before serving to retain their softness inside while staying slightly crisp on the outside.
9. Experiment with Add-Ins
For an extra touch, try adding shredded cheddar cheese, herbs like rosemary or thyme, or even a sprinkle of garlic powder to the dough. These additions can elevate your biscuits to the next level.
10. Practice Consistency
Consistency is key in baking. I make sure to follow the recipe closely and take notes on any adjustments needed for my oven or ingredients. With practice, you’ll master the perfect biscuit every time.
Serving Suggestions
Elevating your homemade KFC-style biscuits is all about pairing them with the right flavors and creating a memorable meal experience. Here are some of my favorite ways to serve these golden, flaky biscuits:
Classic Southern Spread
For a traditional touch, serve your biscuits alongside crispy fried chicken. The buttery softness of the biscuits perfectly complements the savory crunch of the chicken. Add a side of creamy mashed potatoes and rich gravy to complete this comforting Southern meal.
Honey Butter Delight
Enhance the flavor of your biscuits by brushing them with a mixture of melted butter and honey. The sweet and salty combination adds a delightful glaze that makes each bite irresistible. This simple addition turns ordinary biscuits into a luxurious treat.
Breakfast Bonanza
Transform your biscuits into a hearty breakfast by splitting them and adding scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and a slice of cheddar cheese. This savory stack is perfect for starting your day with a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Savory Sandwiches
Create delicious sandwiches by filling your biscuits with smoked turkey, cranberry sauce, and lettuce. The biscuit’s tender crumb and slight sweetness provide an excellent base for savory and tangy fillings, making each sandwich a delightful experience.
Biscuits with Gravy
No biscuit experience is complete without a generous ladle of creamy sausage gravy. Spoon the rich, flavorful gravy over your warm biscuits for a quintessential comfort food combination that never disappoints.
Sweet Variations
For a sweeter twist, top your biscuits with a dollop of fruit preserves or a drizzle of maple syrup. Fresh berries or sliced peaches also make excellent toppings, adding a burst of freshness and natural sweetness to balance the buttery biscuits.
Appetizer Platters
Serve your biscuits as part of an appetizer spread. Pair them with mini sliders, deviled eggs, and pickles for a crowd-pleasing assortment that’s perfect for gatherings and parties. The versatility of the biscuits allows them to shine in various combinations.
Elegant Tea Time
Impress your guests by serving warm biscuits with a selection of gourmet cheeses, charcuterie, and a pot of freshly brewed tea. The delicate texture of the biscuits pairs beautifully with a variety of flavors, making it an elegant addition to your tea time offerings.
Experiment with these serving suggestions to find your favorite way to enjoy homemade KFC-style biscuits. Whether you stick to classic pairings or explore creative combinations, these biscuits are sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Conclusion
Making these KFC-style biscuits has been a rewarding experience for me. There’s something special about enjoying a warm, flaky biscuit right at home. Seeing my family and friends smile as they take a bite makes all the effort worth it. I love how versatile these biscuits are, perfect for any meal or occasion. If you haven’t tried making them yet give it a go and treat yourself to that delicious taste you crave. Happy baking!
