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3-Ingredient Buttermilk Biscuits

This classic recipe for 3-ingredient buttermilk biscuits is the ultimate addition to your vegetarian baking repertoire. By using just self-raising flour, chilled shortening, and tangy buttermilk, you can create light, flaky scones that are perfect for soaking up savoury gravies or enjoying warm with a dollop of salted butter. The high oven temperature ensures a rapid rise, resulting in a beautifully golden exterior and a soft, tender crumb that melts in the mouth.

Ideal for a quick weekend brunch or as a comforting side dish for dinner, these homemade rolls require minimal preparation and zero yeast. The secret lies in handling the dough as little as possible to maintain those sought-after airy layers. Serve them straight from the oven for a simple, satisfying treat that the whole family will appreciate.

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Ingredients for 3-Ingredient Buttermilk Biscuits

  • 250g self-rising flour, plus more

  • 60ml chilled vegetable shortening

  • 160ml buttermilk

Position rack in middle of oven; preheat to 260°C. Grease a rimmed baking sheet with nonstick vegetable oil spray or butter.

Place 250g flour in a large bowl. Cut in shortening with a pastry cutter or 2 butter knives until pea-sized lumps form. Stir in buttermilk until a shaggy dough forms.

On a lightly floured work surface, turn out dough and gently knead 2–3 times until dough just comes together, being careful to not overwork. Roll out dough to a 1/2" thickness; cut with a 2" biscuit cutter or small glass that has been dipped in flour.

Transfer biscuits to prepared baking sheet and bake until golden brown, 6–8 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack and let cool.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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