Dive into the heart of Southern cooking with the iconic Joanna Gaines biscuit recipe.
A staple in the Gaines household and a fan favorite from the Magnolia Table, these biscuits offer more than just a delightful taste; they bring a piece of the Gaines family’s warmth to your table.
Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a comforting dinner side, mastering this recipe is like holding the key to a treasure trove of culinary delight.
Who Is Joanna Gaines?
Joanna Gaines is a television personality, author, and entrepreneur best known for co-hosting the HGTV show “Fixer Upper” with her husband Chip Gaines.
Together, they renovate homes in Waco, Texas, showcasing Joanna’s distinctive style that blends rustic, industrial, and traditional elements. She is also the co-founder of Magnolia, a lifestyle brand that encompasses a retail complex, real estate company, and more.
Joanna has authored several books, including cookbooks and home design guides, contributing to her reputation as a leading figure in home decor, renovation, and Southern cooking.
What Is Magnolia?
Magnolia is a lifestyle brand and business empire co-founded by Chip and Joanna Gaines, stars of the HGTV show “Fixer Upper.”
It encompasses a wide range of ventures, including home renovation and design services, a real estate company, a retail complex called Magnolia Market at the Silos in Waco, Texas, a restaurant, and a line of home goods, decor, and books. Magnolia also produces a quarterly magazine and has a strong presence in publishing, with several books authored by the Gaines. The brand is known for its emphasis on home, family, and simple, meaningful living.
How Is Joanna Gaines Biscuit Recipe Special?
Joanna Gaines’ biscuit recipe is special because it combines traditional Southern baking techniques with her unique touches, such as the inclusion of eggs for added richness and moisture, and the use of cold, cubed butter to ensure the biscuits are flaky and tender.
The biscuits are baked touching each other on the tray, which helps them stay moist and light. This recipe, featured in her “Magnolia Table” cookbook, reflects Joanna’s emphasis on comfort, simplicity, and family, making it a standout for its delicious results and the love that goes into making them.
Main Ingredients Required for Joanna Gaines Biscuit Recipe
1. Self-Rising Flour
Self-rising flour serves as the backbone of the Joanna Gaines biscuit recipe, incorporating a leavening agent and salt directly into the flour. This ingredient simplifies the baking process and ensures a consistent rise, crucial for achieving the light and airy texture that makes these biscuits so irresistible.
2. Baking Powder
An additional leavening agent, baking powder, is essential in creating the perfect lift within the biscuits. It works in tandem with the self-rising flour to ensure that each biscuit puffs up to perfection, offering a tender crumb in every bite.
3. Baking Soda
Baking soda reacts with the acidity of the buttermilk, enhancing the leavening process. This reaction not only helps the biscuits rise but also gives them a beautiful golden hue, contributing to both the aesthetics and the flavor profile of the finished product.
4. Cold Salted Butter
The secret to the flakiness of the Joanna Gaines biscuit recipe lies in the use of cold, salted butter. Keeping the butter cold ensures that it incorporates into the dough in small, distinct pieces, melting during baking to create steam pockets that puff the biscuits up.
5. Eggs
Eggs add richness and color to the dough, making the biscuits tender and lending a beautiful golden color to the crust. An additional egg is used for brushing on top of the biscuits before baking, giving them a shiny, appealing finish.
6. Buttermilk
Buttermilk is a key ingredient that reacts with baking soda, contributing to the rise and adding a slight tanginess that perfectly balances the richness of the butter. This ingredient is crucial for achieving the moist and tender texture that defines these biscuits.
Optional: Strawberry Jam or Sausage Gravy
While the biscuits are delightful on their own, pairing them with strawberry jam or sausage gravy can elevate them to a heartier meal or a delectable treat. These accompaniments complement the biscuits’ buttery flavor and tender texture, making the Joanna Gaines biscuit recipe versatile and suitable for various occasions.
Step-by-Step Preparation: Unraveling Joanna Gaines Biscuit Recipe
1. Preheat Your Oven
The first step in creating the perfect Joanna Gaines biscuit recipe is to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your oven reaches the ideal temperature for baking the biscuits, allowing them to rise properly and achieve a golden-brown crust. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper, which helps prevent the biscuits from sticking and ensures easy cleanup.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the self-rising flour, baking powder, and baking soda. This mixture forms the dry base of your biscuit dough. It’s important to evenly distribute the leavening agents through the flour to ensure that each biscuit rises uniformly, resulting in a consistent texture throughout.
3. Incorporate Cold Butter
Using a pastry blender, cut the cold, salted butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. The key here is to keep the butter as cold as possible; this helps create small pockets of fat in the dough, which will steam during baking, contributing to the flakiness and lightness of the biscuits. The texture of the mixture at this stage is crucial for achieving the desired outcome of the Joanna Gaines biscuit recipe.
4. Blend in the Beaten Eggs and Buttermilk
Next, add the beaten eggs to the mixture, blending them in until just combined. Gradually pour in the buttermilk, stirring until a sticky dough forms. The buttermilk reacts with the baking soda, creating bubbles of carbon dioxide that help the biscuits to rise. This step is vital for imparting the biscuits with their characteristic tenderness and slight tang.
5. Roll Out the Dough
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and gently roll it out to your desired thickness, typically about 1/2 inch. It’s important to handle the dough as little as possible to avoid overworking it, which can result in tough biscuits. The gentle touch ensures that the Joanna Gaines biscuit recipe maintains its signature tender texture.
6. Cut with a Biscuit Cutter
Using a biscuit cutter, cut out rounds of dough and place them on the prepared baking sheet. For the Joanna Gaines biscuit recipe, the biscuits should be placed close together on the baking sheet; this helps them to rise upwards instead of spreading out, ensuring they are tall and fluffy.
7. Bake Until Golden Brown
Bake the biscuits in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top. The exact baking time may vary depending on your oven and the size of your biscuits, so it’s a good idea to start checking them around the 15-minute mark. Once baked, the biscuits should have a beautiful golden crust and a soft, fluffy interior, embodying the heart and soul of the Joanna Gaines biscuit recipe.
Joanna Gaines Inspired Biscuit Recipe
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Pastry blender
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- 2 3/4-inch round biscuit cutter
- Pastry brush
Ingredients
- 4 cups self-rising flour plus more for dusting
- 2 tablespoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 3/4 pound 3 sticks cold salted butter, cubed
- 2 large eggs beaten, plus 1 for brushing
- 1 1/2 cups buttermilk plus 1 tablespoon for brushing
- Optional: Strawberry jam or sausage gravy for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the self-rising flour, baking powder, and baking soda.
- Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry blender to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in the beaten eggs with a wooden spoon until combined. Gradually add the buttermilk, stirring until a sticky dough forms. If the dough is too dry, add more buttermilk, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently press it into a round about 1/2-inch thick. Use a floured biscuit cutter to cut out biscuits. Reform the scraps to cut additional biscuits.
- Place the biscuits on the prepared baking sheet so that they are touching. This helps to keep them moist and tender.
- Beat the additional egg with 1 tablespoon of buttermilk and brush the tops of the biscuits.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Serving Ideas for Joanna Gaines Biscuit Recipe
Warm with Homemade Strawberry Jam
One of the most delightful ways to enjoy the Joanna Gaines biscuit recipe is to serve them warm, fresh out of the oven, with a generous dollop of homemade strawberry jam. The sweetness of the jam complements the buttery richness of the biscuits, creating a perfect balance of flavors. This combination is not only delicious but also evokes a sense of comfort and nostalgia, making it a hit among both adults and children alike.
Hearty Sausage Gravy
For a more savory option, topping these biscuits with a hearty sausage gravy transforms them into a substantial meal. The creamy, spicy gravy pairs beautifully with the tender biscuits, making for a satisfying breakfast or brunch option. This classic Southern pairing is a testament to the versatility of the Joanna Gaines biscuit recipe, showcasing its ability to anchor a hearty, comforting meal.
Perfect Side for Southern Dishes
The Joanna Gaines biscuit recipe produces biscuits that are the perfect accompaniment to your favorite Southern dishes. Whether you’re serving them alongside fried chicken, collard greens, or a savory pot roast, these biscuits have the ability to round out a meal, adding a touch of warmth and homemade goodness. Their light, fluffy texture and rich flavor make them an ideal side dish, capable of soaking up sauces and gravies or simply being enjoyed on their own.
Customizable to Suit Any Meal
The beauty of the Joanna Gaines biscuit recipe lies in its adaptability. Beyond the classic pairings of strawberry jam and sausage gravy, these biscuits can be customized to suit any meal or occasion. Consider adding herbs or cheese to the dough for a savory twist, or drizzle them with honey for a sweet treat. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor the recipe to your tastes and preferences.
Tips for Making Joanna Gaines Biscuit Recipe
1. Keep Your Butter Cold
One of the cardinal rules for achieving the perfect flakiness in the Joanna Gaines biscuit recipe is to ensure your butter is cold.
Cold butter doesn’t blend completely into the flour; instead, it creates small pockets within the dough. As the biscuits bake, the butter melts, producing steam that lifts the dough, resulting in layers that are light and flaky.
This technique is crucial for the texture that makes these biscuits so beloved.
2. Don’t Overwork the Dough
The tenderness of the biscuits from the Joanna Gaines biscuit recipe is partly due to the gentle handling of the dough.
Overworking the dough activates the gluten in the flour, which can make the biscuits tough rather than tender. Mix the ingredients until just combined, and handle the dough as little as possible when rolling and cutting.
This light touch ensures that the biscuits maintain their signature tender crumb.
3. Bake Biscuits Close Together
Arranging the biscuits close together on the baking sheet is a simple yet effective technique to ensure they have soft sides. When biscuits are baked close to each other, they support one another as they rise, leading to taller biscuits.
This method also prevents the sides from becoming too crusty, ensuring each bite is as soft and delightful as the center. The Joanna Gaines biscuit recipe benefits greatly from this approach, yielding biscuits that are perfect in texture and appearance.
Nutritional Information for Joanna Gaines Biscuit Recipe
Each biscuit approximately contains 200 calories, with detailed breakdowns of carbs, fats, and proteins available based on specific serving sizes.
Alternative Ingredients for Joanna Gaines Biscuit Recipe
Creating a version of the Joanna Gaines biscuit recipe that accommodates dietary restrictions doesn’t mean compromising on taste or texture. With the right substitutes, everyone can enjoy these delightful biscuits. Here’s how you can adapt the recipe to meet various dietary needs:
Gluten-Free Flour
For those who are gluten-intolerant or have celiac disease, gluten-free flour can be a great substitute for self-rising flour.
When using gluten-free flour, it’s important to add a gluten-free baking powder and a bit of xanthan gum (if your flour blend doesn’t already include it) to help mimic the texture and rise of traditional biscuits. The ratio is typically 1/4 teaspoon of xanthan gum per cup of flour, but check the packaging for recommendations.
Plant-Based Butters
For vegans or those avoiding dairy, plant-based butters offer a fantastic alternative to traditional dairy butter in the Joanna Gaines biscuit recipe. Look for a plant-based butter that is suitable for baking, as some may have higher water content than others. The key is to keep the plant-based butter cold, just as you would with dairy butter, to ensure flaky, tender biscuits.
Dairy-Free Milks
Buttermilk plays a crucial role in the Joanna Gaines biscuit recipe, adding acidity and richness. For a dairy-free version, you can make your own buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to a cup of plant-based milk, such as almond, soy, or oat milk. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes before using it in the recipe.
Egg Substitutes
Eggs add moisture and help bind the biscuits together. For those who do not consume eggs, there are several alternatives that can be used in baking, such as flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water, left to thicken for 5 minutes) or commercial egg replacers available in most health food stores. Each of these substitutes can replace one egg in the recipe.
Customization: Making Joanna Gaines Biscuit Recipe Your Own
The beauty of the Joanna Gaines biscuit recipe lies not only in its delicious simplicity but also in its versatility. By adding a few personal touches, you can transform the basic recipe into a variety of flavors that cater to different tastes and occasions. Here are some ideas to inspire your customizations:
Add Cheese for a Savory Twist
Incorporating cheese into the biscuit dough can turn these fluffy treats into a savory delight. Sharp cheddar, Parmesan, or Gouda can add a rich depth of flavor. Consider adding about 1 cup of grated cheese to the dry ingredients before mixing in the wet ingredients. The result is a cheesy, mouthwatering biscuit that pairs perfectly with soups and salads.
Incorporate Herbs for Freshness
Fresh or dried herbs can elevate the Joanna Gaines biscuit recipe to new heights. Adding herbs like rosemary, thyme, or chives can infuse the biscuits with aromatic flavors, making them an excellent complement to any meal. For every 4 cups of flour, try adding 1 to 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh herbs or 1 teaspoon of dried herbs.
Spice It Up
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, incorporating spices into the biscuit dough can add an exciting twist. Spices such as cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or black pepper can be added to taste, giving the biscuits a subtle kick that spices up the breakfast table. Start with 1/2 teaspoon of your chosen spice and adjust according to your preference.
Sweeten the Deal
Transform the Joanna Gaines biscuit recipe into a sweet treat by adding sugar and spices. Mix in 2 to 3 tablespoons of sugar along with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a sweet and spicy version that’s perfect for breakfast or as a snack. Serve with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
Experiment with Toppings
Before baking, consider brushing the tops of the biscuits with melted butter and sprinkling them with your choice of toppings. Sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything bagel seasoning can add texture and flavor, making each biscuit uniquely delicious.
The Art of Serving: Pairing and Presentation for Joanna Gaines Biscuit Recipe
The final touch to mastering the Joanna Gaines biscuit recipe lies in how it’s served. The right pairing and presentation can elevate the humble biscuit from a simple baked good to a memorable part of a meal. Here are some tips to enhance your biscuit serving experience:
Choose the Right Platter
Serving your biscuits on a rustic platter or a vintage dish can add a touch of elegance and warmth to your table setting. A wooden cutting board or a slate serving tray also works well, especially if you’re aiming for a more casual or country-style presentation. The key is to choose a platter that complements the aesthetic of your biscuits and your table.
Pair with Jams, Butters, and Gravies
The versatility of the Joanna Gaines biscuit recipe allows for a wide range of accompaniments. Here are a few suggestions:
- Jams and Preserves: Offer a selection of homemade or artisanal jams, such as strawberry, peach, or apricot, for a sweet touch.
- Flavored Butters: Whip up some flavored butters by mixing softened butter with ingredients like honey, cinnamon, or herbs.
- Savory Gravies: For a heartier option, serve your biscuits with a rich sausage gravy or a creamy mushroom gravy.
Create a Biscuit Bar
For gatherings or special occasions, consider setting up a biscuit bar where guests can customize their biscuits. Include various jams, butters, gravies, and other toppings like sliced cheeses, ham, or smoked salmon. This interactive element not only makes the meal more engaging but also caters to different tastes.
Add Garnishes for a Pop of Color
Garnishing your biscuit platter with fresh herbs, edible flowers, or fruit slices can add a vibrant pop of color and enhance the visual appeal of your presentation. For instance, a sprig of rosemary or a few lavender flowers can make the dish look more inviting and add a subtle aroma.
Consider the Overall Table Setting
When serving the Joanna Gaines biscuit recipe, think about the overall table setting. Linen napkins, simple ceramic plates, and mason jars filled with fresh flowers can create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The goal is to make the meal feel special and thoughtfully prepared, enhancing the enjoyment of these delicious biscuits.
Storage Instructions for Joanna Gaines Biscuit Recipe
Proper storage is key to maintaining the freshness and flavor of the Joanna Gaines biscuit recipe. Whether you’re enjoying them over a couple of days or saving them for later, here’s how to keep your biscuits at their best:
Storing at Room Temperature
For short-term storage, biscuits can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature. This method is ideal if you plan to consume them within 2 days.
To ensure they retain their texture, line the container with a paper towel to absorb any excess moisture. Place another paper towel on top of the biscuits before sealing the container.
This setup helps to keep the biscuits from becoming too soft or soggy.
Freezing for Long-Term Storage
If you want to extend the shelf life of your biscuits, freezing is an excellent option. Here’s how to freeze them properly:
- Cool Completely: Ensure the biscuits are completely cool before preparing them for freezing. This prevents condensation from forming inside the storage container or bag, which could lead to freezer burn or soggy biscuits when thawed.
- Pre-Freeze: Arrange the biscuits on a baking sheet, not touching, and place them in the freezer for about an hour. This step, known as flash freezing, helps the biscuits to freeze individually, making them easier to store and preventing them from sticking together.
- Wrap and Seal: Once the biscuits are individually frozen, wrap each one in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Then, place the wrapped biscuits in a freezer-safe bag or container. Be sure to squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing to minimize freezer burn.
- Label and Freeze: Write the date on the bag or container before placing it in the freezer. Properly stored, the biscuits can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Thawing and Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen biscuits, here’s how to thaw and reheat them:
- Thawing: Allow the biscuits to thaw at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
- Reheating: To recapture the biscuits’ fresh-baked warmth and texture, reheat them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until they are thoroughly warmed. If they were thawed in the refrigerator, you might need to add a few extra minutes to the reheating time.
Food Safety for Joanna Gaines Biscuit Recipe
Ensuring food safety is paramount when preparing any recipe, including the Joanna Gaines biscuit recipe. From the selection of ingredients to their storage and handling, every step matters in preventing foodborne illnesses and ensuring that your biscuits are not only delicious but also safe to eat. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:
Selecting Fresh Ingredients
- Flour: Check the expiration date on your flour package. While flour can last a long time when stored properly, it can go bad or become contaminated with pests if not stored correctly or if kept past its prime.
- Butter: Use butter that has been stored in the refrigerator and is within its use-by date. Butter can go rancid if left out at room temperature for too long or if it’s past its expiration date.
- Eggs: Always use fresh eggs and perform a freshness test if you’re unsure. You can test an egg’s freshness by placing it in a bowl of water; fresh eggs will sink, while older eggs will float.
- Buttermilk: Ensure that the buttermilk is within its expiration date and has been stored in the refrigerator. If it smells sour or unpleasant, it’s best to discard it and use a fresh carton.
Proper Storage of Ingredients
- Flour: Store flour in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. For longer storage, consider keeping it in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer to prevent it from absorbing moisture and odors.
- Butter: Keep butter refrigerated until you’re ready to use it. For the Joanna Gaines biscuit recipe, you’ll want the butter to be cold to achieve the desired flakiness in the biscuits.
- Eggs and Buttermilk: Store eggs and buttermilk in the refrigerator at all times. Avoid leaving them out at room temperature for extended periods to reduce the risk of bacterial growth.
Handling Ingredients Safely
- Wash Your Hands: Always wash your hands with soap and water before and after handling ingredients, especially raw eggs, to prevent the spread of bacteria.
- Avoid Cross-Contamination: Use separate utensils, bowls, and cutting boards for different ingredients, especially if you’re also preparing foods that won’t be cooked, such as spreads or toppings for the biscuits.
- Check for Allergies: If you’re serving the biscuits to guests, be aware of any food allergies and clearly communicate the ingredients used in the recipe.
Variations of Joanna Gaines Biscuit Recipe
The Joanna Gaines biscuit recipe serves as a fantastic base for a variety of delicious twists. By incorporating different ingredients or adapting the recipe to suit different occasions, you can enjoy a new flavor experience each time you bake. Here are some creative variations to inspire your next baking adventure:
Adding Cheddar and Chives
For a savory version that pairs wonderfully with soups or salads, consider adding grated cheddar cheese and finely chopped chives to the biscuit dough. The sharpness of the cheddar and the mild onion flavor of the chives complement the buttery biscuits perfectly.
- Mix in 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese and 2 tablespoons of chopped chives into the dry ingredients before adding the wet ingredients. This ensures even distribution throughout the dough.
Making Mini Biscuit Sandwiches
Mini biscuit sandwiches are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as appetizers. Using the Joanna Gaines biscuit recipe, you can create small biscuits that are ideal for filling with ham, cheese, and a dab of mustard or honey.
- Roll out the dough slightly thinner than usual and use a small biscuit cutter to create mini biscuits.
- Once baked and cooled, slice each biscuit in half and layer with thinly sliced ham and cheese, creating delightful mini sandwiches.
Sweet Cinnamon-Sugar Twist
Transform the Joanna Gaines biscuit recipe into a sweet treat by adding cinnamon and sugar. This variation is perfect for a cozy breakfast or as a snack with a cup of tea.
- Mix 1/4 cup of sugar and 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon into the dry ingredients.
- After brushing the tops of the biscuits with the beaten egg, sprinkle them with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar before baking for a sweet, crusty topping.
Herbed Garlic Biscuits
For a garlic bread alternative, add garlic powder and your choice of dried herbs, such as Italian seasoning, to the biscuit dough. These herbed garlic biscuits are a great side for pasta dishes or salads.
- Add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1 teaspoon of dried Italian herbs to the dry ingredients.
- Brush the baked biscuits with melted butter mixed with minced garlic for an extra garlic boost.
Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free Variation
Adapting the Joanna Gaines biscuit recipe for dietary restrictions is straightforward and ensures everyone can enjoy these delicious biscuits.
- Substitute the self-rising flour with a gluten-free flour blend and add 1 1/2 teaspoons of gluten-free baking powder per cup of flour to mimic self-rising flour.
- Use dairy-free butter and a buttermilk substitute (1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar plus enough dairy-free milk to measure 1 cup) to accommodate dairy-free needs.
Thank You for Reading
We hope you found this article helpful and informative. At Authentic Hospitality, we are committed to providing valuable resources and insights to help you succeed in the restaurant industry, or at home. If you have any questions or feedback, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We wish you all the best in your culinary adventures!
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FAQs About Joanna Gaines Biscuit Recipe
Yes, add 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder and 1/4 teaspoon of salt to each cup of all-purpose flour to make it self-rising.
Avoid overworking the dough and keep your butter cold.
Yes, you can freeze unbaked biscuits and bake them straight from the freezer.
Mix 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar with 1 cup of milk and let it sit for 5 minutes as a substitute.
Ensure your baking powder and soda are fresh and properly measured.
Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.
Incorporate cheese, fresh herbs, or spices into the dough before baking.
This article was reviewed and published by Ryan Yates, Culinary Expert with over 15 years of experience in elevated cooking techniques. This process was tested in a working commercial kitchen that Ryan manages as a Professional Chef.
Note: This article was crafted with the primary intent of educating and assisting our readers. We ensure that our content is backed by research and expertise. For more culinary insights, stay tuned to the Authentic Hospitality blog.
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