Dough SchoolA 100-level baking curriculum

Tall drop biscuits

Level 11 of 100Foundation30 min450°F / 230°CBaking powder power

Formula

  • 240 g flour
  • 14 g double-acting powder
  • 5 g salt
  • 100 g cold butter
  • 180 g buttermilk

Method

  1. Start. Whisk dry ingredients very well; cut in butter.Watch for: Use only enough flour to prevent sticking and handle evenly so every piece bakes at the same rate. Scrape the bottom and sides once, then stop at the texture described; extra mixing can add air or develop unwanted gluten.
  2. Then. Fold in buttermilk until no loose flour remains.Watch for: Cut through the center and sweep up the side while rotating the bowl; stop when the last dry streak disappears so you preserve air and tenderness.
  3. Finish. Drop 8 mounds close together and bake 12–15 minutes.Watch for: 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 are coordinating gas production with the moment the batter sets.