HOW TO MAKE PANTRY BISCUIT MIX

A jar of homemade biscuit mix is one of those simple pantry staples that makes a busy morning or hurried supper a little easier. Most of the measuring is already done, so when you want a pan of warm biscuits, shortcake, cobbler topping, or dumplings, you can have the dough mixed in just a few minutes.

It is the kind of practical mixture that earns its place on the pantry shelf, ready to be scooped out whenever something homemade is needed without starting completely from scratch.

PANTRY BISCUIT MIX

You will need:

8 cups all-purpose flour

1/3 cup baking powder

1 tablespoon salt

2 tablespoons sugar

1 cup cold butter, shortening, or lard

TO MAKE THE MIX

In a very large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar until everything is evenly combined.

Cut in the cold butter, shortening, or lard using a pastry blender, two forks, or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

If using butter, keep the mix refrigerated or frozen.

If using shelf-stable shortening, the mix may be stored in a tightly sealed container in a cool, dry pantry.

Label the container with the name and date.

TO MAKE BISCUITS

Measure:

2 cups biscuit mix

About 2/3 cup milk

Heat oven to 450°F.

Place the biscuit mix in a bowl and gradually stir in the milk just until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it about 3/4 inch thick.

Cut into biscuits with a biscuit cutter or drinking glass.

Place on a baking sheet. For softer-sided biscuits, place them close together. For crisper edges, leave a little space between them.

Bake for about 10 to 12 minutes, or until golden brown.

Brush the tops with melted butter while warm, if desired.

FOR DROP BISCUITS

Use 2 cups biscuit mix and enough milk, usually about 3/4 cup, to make a thick scoopable dough.

Drop by spoonfuls onto a baking sheet and bake at 450°F for about 10 to 12 minutes.

FOR SHORTCAKE

To 2 cups biscuit mix, stir in 2 tablespoons sugar before adding the milk.

Pat or drop the dough onto a baking sheet and bake as directed.

Split the warm biscuits and serve with sweetened berries and whipped cream.

A LITTLE PANTRY NOTE

Homemade mixes are most useful when the directions are written right on the jar or tucked inside the lid. That way nobody has to go searching for the recipe when breakfast is already underway.

This recipe is printer-friendly, so you can print or save it for your recipe box or household notebook.

Nana Banana