Beaten biscuits are a traditional Southern delicacy, known for their unique texture and rich flavor. These biscuits are perfect for breakfast or as a side dish for any meal. The process of making them involves a bit of elbow grease, but the end result is well worth the effort.
One ingredient you might not commonly have at home is lard. This fat, derived from pork, gives the biscuits their distinctive flavor and texture. If you can't find lard, you can substitute it with shortening, which is more readily available in most supermarkets. Make sure to use it cold for the best results.

Ingredients for Beaten Biscuits Recipe
Flour: The base of the biscuits, providing structure and texture.
Salt: Enhances the flavor of the biscuits.
Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the saltiness.
Lard: Provides a rich, distinctive flavor and flaky texture.
Shortening: An alternative to lard, offering a similar texture.
Water: Helps to bind the ingredients together to form the dough.
Technique Tip for This Recipe
When cutting in the lard or shortening, use a pastry blender or two knives to ensure the fat is evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture. This step is crucial for achieving the desired flaky texture in your biscuits. Additionally, make sure the water is very cold to prevent the fat from melting, which helps maintain the flakiness.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a nuttier flavor and more fiber, though it may make the biscuits denser.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with gluten-free flour blend: For those with gluten intolerance, a gluten-free flour blend can be used to achieve a similar texture.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used for a slightly different mineral content and flavor profile.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can add a different sweetness and moisture, though it may slightly alter the texture.
sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup provides a unique flavor and sweetness, but it will also add moisture.
cold lard - Substitute with cold butter: Butter can be used for a rich flavor and similar texture, though it may make the biscuits slightly less flaky.
cold lard - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil is a good plant-based alternative that can provide a subtle coconut flavor.
cold water - Substitute with cold milk: Milk can add a richer flavor and slightly more tender texture to the biscuits.
cold water - Substitute with buttermilk: Buttermilk adds a tangy flavor and can help make the biscuits more tender and rise better.
Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This One
How to Store or Freeze These Biscuits
- Allow the biscuits to cool completely before storing or freezing. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.
- For short-term storage, place the biscuits in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. Store at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- To keep them fresh for a longer period, wrap each biscuit individually in plastic wrap. Then, place the wrapped biscuits in a resealable plastic bag or an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- For freezing, wrap each biscuit individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the wrapped biscuits in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. This prevents them from sticking together.
- Once frozen, transfer the biscuits to a resealable freezer bag or an airtight container. Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the frozen biscuits on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them on a microwave-safe plate for 20-30 seconds, but this may result in a softer texture.
- For a crispier texture, you can also reheat the biscuits in a toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes.
How to Reheat Leftovers
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the beaten biscuits on a baking sheet and cover them with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until they are warmed through.
For a quick reheat, use a microwave. Place the biscuits on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds. Check for warmth and repeat if necessary.
If you have a toaster oven, set it to 350°F (175°C). Place the biscuits directly on the rack or on a baking sheet. Heat for about 5-7 minutes until they are warm and slightly crispy.
For a stovetop method, heat a skillet over medium-low heat. Place the biscuits in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side, checking frequently to avoid burning.
If you prefer a steam method, place the biscuits in a steamer basket over boiling water. Cover and steam for about 5 minutes until they are heated through and soft.
Best Tools for Making These Biscuits
Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) for baking the biscuits.
Mixing bowl: Use to combine the flour, salt, and sugar.
Pastry cutter: Cut in the lard or shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Measuring cups: Measure the flour, lard or shortening, and water accurately.
Measuring spoons: Measure the salt and sugar precisely.
Rolling pin: Roll out the dough to about ½ inch thickness.
Biscuit cutter: Cut the dough into biscuit shapes.
Baking sheet: Place the cut biscuits on this for baking.
Flour sifter: Optional, but can be used to ensure the flour is light and free of lumps.
Cooling rack: Place the baked biscuits on this to cool down after baking.
Knife: Useful for cutting the lard or shortening into smaller pieces before using the pastry cutter.
Spatula: Helps to transfer the cut biscuits onto the baking sheet.
How to Save Time on Making This Recipe
Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out flour, salt, and sugar in advance to streamline the process.
Use a food processor: Quickly cut in the lard or shortening by pulsing in a food processor.
Chill the dough: Place the dough in the fridge for 10 minutes before rolling to make it easier to handle.
Batch baking: Double the recipe and freeze extra biscuits for future use.
Quick cleanup: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to reduce washing time.

Beaten Biscuits Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups All-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 tablespoon Sugar
- ½ cup Lard or shortening cold
- ½ cup Cold water
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix flour, salt, and sugar.
- Cut in the lard or shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add cold water, mixing until a dough forms.
- On a floured surface, knead the dough until smooth.
- Roll out the dough to about ½ inch thickness. Cut with a biscuit cutter.
- Place biscuits on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
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