Dough SchoolA 100-level baking curriculum

Salted butter biscuits

Level 2 of 100Foundation30 min425°F / 220°CSalt as a flavor tool

Formula

  • 250 g (2 cups) flour
  • 12 g baking powder
  • 5 g salt
  • 85 g cold butter
  • 180 g (¾ cup) milk

Method

  1. Start. Whisk dry ingredients thoroughly so the salt and leavener disperse.Watch for: Scrape the bottom and sides once, then stop at the texture described; extra mixing can add air or develop unwanted gluten.
  2. Then. Rub in cold butter to pea-size pieces; stir in milk only until shaggy.Watch for: Scrape the bottom and sides once, then stop at the texture described; extra mixing can add air or develop unwanted gluten.
  3. Finish. Pat 1-inch thick, cut straight down, and bake 13–16 minutes.Watch for: Use only enough flour to prevent sticking and handle evenly so every piece bakes at the same rate. Begin checking at the early end of the range; use the stated color, movement, or internal-temperature cue rather than time alone.

The concept

You will feel the difference between under-salted, balanced, and overworked dough.